Grief for the 29 Lives Lost, Including Women and Children - Urgent Call for Justice in Myanmar's Kachin State Catastrophe

12-10-2023

Alexandra Posta

East and South Asia Human Rights Researcher

Global Human Rights Defence

In a harrowing incident that unfolded near the Chinese border in north-east Myanmar, at least 29 innocent lives, including those of children, were tragically cut short in an artillery strike on a displaced persons' camp. This merciless attack occurred in an area under the control of the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO), intensifying the longstanding conflict that has plagued Kachin State for over six decades [BBC, 10 October 2023]. The gravity of the situation demands a comprehensive examination of the facts, human rights implications, and the urgent need for international intervention.

The conflict in Kachin State has escalated in recent times, with the military junta intensifying attacks on KIO-run areas due to perceived support for insurgent groups resisting the military government [BBC, 10 October 2023]. Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar has witnessed a surge in air strikes against opposition-held regions, further exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation [BBC, 10 October 2023]. The attack on the Mong Lai Khet camp marks one of the deadliest episodes in the 63-year-long conflict, adding to the grim toll of a conflict that has displaced over a million people across the country [BBC, 10 October 2023][TST, 11 October 2023][Sky News, 10 October 2023].

The ramifications of this tragedy extend beyond the immediate loss of lives, invoking serious concerns about violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. The attack on a camp for internally displaced persons raises profound questions about the military's adherence to the principles enshrined in various international treaties and conventions. Specifically, the attack may constitute a breach of Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, which outlines the humane treatment of non-combatants during armed conflicts [BBC, 10 October 2023]. Moreover, the National Unity Government has rightfully characterized this incident as a potential "war crime and crime against humanity," urging the international community to hold those responsible accountable [TST, 11 October 2023]. The use of artillery strikes in civilian-populated areas underscores the urgent need for a robust response from the international community to prevent further atrocities.

In the face of this devastating incident, it is imperative for the international community and relevant stakeholders to unequivocally condemn the attack on the Mong Lai Khet camp. The loss of innocent lives demands not only immediate humanitarian assistance but also a thorough investigation into the alleged violations of international law. It is crucial to underscore the urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict in Kachin State and promoting a peaceful resolution that upholds the principles of justice, human rights, and international law. Only through collective action can we hope to prevent such tragedies and pave the way for a more secure and just future for the people of Myanmar. [BBC, 10 October 2023][TST, 11 October 2023][Sky News, 10 October 2023].

SOURCES

BBC. (10 October 2023). Myanmar: 29 killed in artillery strike on camp for displaced people. Available at https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-67061964.

The Straits Time. (11 October 2023). Women, children among 29 killed in artillery strike on Myanmar refugee camp: Sources, media. Available at https://www.straitstimes.com/world/women-children-among-29-killed-as-artillery-hits-myanmar-refugee-camp-sources-media.

Sky News. (10 October 2023). At least 29 dead after 'artillery strike on Myanmar refugee camp'. Available at https://news.sky.com/story/at-least-29-dead-after-artillery-strike-on-myanmar-refugee-camp-12981411.