Canada Must Support Burma Crimes Inquiry – Protest at Embassy in London

By Burma Campaign UK • August 25, 2010

Burma Campaign UK is holding a demonstration at the Canadian Embassy calling on the Canadian government to publicly support a UN Commission of Inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Burma.

Canada has traditionally taken the lead in supporting accountability and respect for international human rights and humanitarian law. It has also been a strong supporter of promoting human rights and democracy in Burma. However, five months has passed since a report by the UN Special Rapporteur on Burma calling for a UN Inquiry, and Canada has still failed to publicly state that it supports this.

Canadian Friends of Burma and Burma Campaign UK have joined forces to call on the Canadian government to support a UN Inquiry.

“If we are going to build enough international support for the establishment of a UN Inquiry, then it is vital to get the support of countries such as Canada, which has a strong commitment to human rights,” said Zoya Phan, International Coordinator at Burma Campaign UK. “War crimes and crimes against humanity are being committed in Burma. Canada must not remain silent on this issue.”

Burmese community organisations and human rights groups in the UK are supporting the demonstration, including: National League for Democracy – Liberated Area (UK), Kachin National Organisation, Chin Community, Democratic Party for a New Society, and Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

For more information contact Zoya Phan on 02073244712.