Myanmar’s Response: Myanmar reaffirms commitment to child protection

Myanmar firmly rejects the distorted figures and baseless accusations contained in the report of the United Nations Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict for 2024, which released on 17 June.

According to the statement issued by the Committee on Prevention of Grave Violations against Children in Armed Conflict on Thursday, 93 verified minors have been discharged and returned to their guardians/parents, with financial assistance provided to the discharged individuals.

To date, only 18 suspected minor cases remain pending verification by both sides. Furthermore, Myanmar launched the 4 Digit Helpline (1566), as a national complaint mechanism to prevent, killing, maiming, and sexual violence against children in armed conflicts.

As of December 2024, 98 reported incidents have been referred to related departments and organizations. No report or complaint regarding sexual violence against children in armed conflicts has been filed. It also stated that the Report alleges 482 minors were recruited and used by the Myanmar armed forces.

However, in 2024, UN CTFMR shared only eight cases of suspected minors for joint verification, rendering the figures presented in the report entirely misrepresented. In addition to this, it is deeply disappointing that the distorted report omits the inhumane and brutal acts committed by terrorist groups such as NUG and PDFs and certain EAOs. 

These groups have been responsible for the deaths of 8,588 unarmed civilians including 318 children (198 boys and 120 girls) as well as injuries to 1,219 children since 2021. However, the report downplays the atrocities committed by the said armed groups.

Given these circumstances, the report with biases and a country-specific nature with the intention to exert undue political pressure on a member state will only hinder constructive dialogue and progress.

Such action raises concerns about objectivity, credibility, neutrality, and data collection methodology of the United Nations. It added that Myanmar remains committed to exerting its utmost efforts to safeguard the rights and safety of children. Therefore, Myanmar strongly urges the United Nations to adopt a balanced, credible, and constructive approach towards member states while issuing reports.