UN CHIEF WARNS MYANMAR CRISIS THREATENS REGIONAL STABILITY

HAMILTON, Oct 1 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday warned that the crisis in Myanmar threatens the stability of the region and the rights of millions, Anadolu Ajansi reported.

"This crisis, which has deepened since the 2021 military takeover, tramples on the human rights, dignity and safety of millions and threatens regional stability," Guterres said in remarks delivered on his behalf by Chef de Cabinet Courtenay Rattray at the UN High-Level Conference on the Situation of Human Rights of Rohingya and Other Minorities in Myanmar.

He stressed that "it is not enough to take stock of the status quo. We must also foster solidarity and forge solutions," while noting that minorities in Myanmar "have endured decades of exclusion, abuse and violence."

Highlighting the plight of the Rohingya Muslims, Guterres said they "have been stripped of their right to citizenship," forcing more than 1 million to seek refuge in Bangladesh.

Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya have fled Myanmar since 2017 due to violent crackdowns by the military and armed groups. Most have sought refuge in Bangladesh, with some reaching Indonesia after dangerous sea journeys.

"In the past 18 months alone, 150,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh, which has generously kept its borders open and given them refuge," said the UN chief.

Guterres also warned that "massive aid cuts have squeezed access to healthcare and stifled opportunities for learning and livelihoods. Food assistance risks running out at the end of November."

"We must find a sustainable political solution that will shape a peaceful and inclusive future for all of Myanmar," he said, calling for action in three key areas: respect for humanitarian and human rights law, unhindered humanitarian access, and renewed humanitarian and development investment.

"The solution to this crisis lies ultimately in Myanmar," he said. "There can be no durable peace without a genuine cessation of hostilities and a path to de-escalation and dialogue."

"The Rohingya, and all of Myanmar's people, must be able to play a meaningful role in this process," said Guterres. "They deserve justice, dignity, and a safe return home."

-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU