HURFOM Releases a Second Update in the “Voice Up” Series: A Gendered Overview of the Human Rights Situation in Southeastern Burma: March-May 2024

June 26, 2024

For Immediate Release

Today, the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) releases the second update in the “Voice Up” series, which provides a gendered overview of the human rights situation in target areas of Southeastern Burma, including Mon State, Karen State, and the Tanintharyi region. The report covers violations against women and children who have been impacted by the junta’s ongoing attacks against civilians between March and May 2024. The first update was published at the beginning of March 2024.

Before the attempted coup in Burma on 1 February 2021, HURFOM had published similar content in a bulletin-style format under the title ‘Voice Up.’ All of the cases documented by HURFOM fieldworkers show the strength of women and children in the wake of great adversity.

Our most recent findings indicate a worsening trajectory of complete and utter disregard for civilian life by the Burma Army. A total of at least twenty women were injured, sixteen were killed, and eighteen were arbitrarily arrested and unlawfully detained. Several of those killed were in their homes at the time of indiscriminate firing by the junta. Landmines also continue to pose a devastating risk that robs innocent people of their mobility and freedom of movement. Landmines are hidden, increasing the risk of their detonation.

For example, on the morning of March 11^th, a distressing incident occurred in Zahar village, Dawei Township, where Daw Hnin Mu, age 60, tragically stepped on a landmine while tending to her garden. The explosion resulted in the amputation of her right leg. This incident, among others, is further evidence of the deprival of everyday rights and freedoms in Southeastern Burma and across the country.

Nonetheless, women remain steadfast and unwavering in their commitment to see a democratic Burma that includes gender equality. Their voices must be amplified across all political and social spaces to ensure their participation goes beyond tokenism and translates to meaningful change. Women are among the majority of those displaced and have suffered immensely at the hands of a brutal, power-hungry regime which has failed to steal their spirit.

HURFOM urges the international community to act swiftly to respond to women’s challenges and fund their efforts as long-time, reliable providers in their communities. Their roles as leaders have transcended gender norms and dispelled harmful gender stereotypes. Recognition of their bravery must extend to advocacy for protection pathways and transitional justice. Donors must also end long-time funding barriers and support their leadership and organizing with localized approaches.

Women continue to spearhead change, respond quickly to crises, and resist injustice, even during deeply challenging times. The second issue of this report is indicative not only of their struggles but also of their unwavering perseverance and determination.

Media Contact
Mi Seik Non, Assistant Coordinator
Email: miseiknon222@gmail.com
Phone:+ 95 9 772 760 517

Nai Aue Mon, HURFOM Program Director
Email: auemon@rehmonnya.org
Signal: +66 86 167 9741

HURFOM was founded by exiled pro-democracy students from the 1988 uprisings, recent activists, Mon community leaders, and youth. Its primary objective is to restore democracy, human rights, and genuine peace in Burma. HURFOM is a non-profit organization, and all its members are volunteers with a shared vision for peace in the country.