New Democrats call for UN commission of inquiry on Burma

By New Democratic Party of Canada • August 31, 2010

Canada should add its support for the establishment of a UN Commission of Inquiry into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed by the military regime in Burma, says New Democrat Leader Jack Layton (Toronto-Danforth).

“Canadians have spoken out against human rights violations in Burma – from political repression and forced displacement of civilians to sexual violence, torture and murder,” said Layton. “Violating human rights has been used systematically and with impunity by the Burmese junta and it’s time to establish a UN Commission of Inquiry.”

If countries like Canada failed to call for a UN Commission of Inquiry on Burma, the junta regime will only be emboldened to continue its violations of human rights, said New Democrat Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre).

“With no further delay, Canada should support the call for the establishment of the commission and offer its active role in coordinating such an inquiry,” said Dewar. “Canadians have a history of being human rights champions and supporters.”

United States, Britain and Australia, among others, have already supported the call for a Commission of Inquiry. Over 80 Canadian Parliamentarians have also called on the government to do the same.