Anti-junta Groups Ask ASEAN and International Communities to Address Myanmar’s Crisis

Prior to the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, which are currently under the chairmanship of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Indonesia convened a special meeting in Jakarta to address the crisis in Myanmar. The meeting was attended by representatives from the United Nations, European Union, and ASEAN, as well as stakeholders from Myanmar, including representatives from the National Unity Government (NUG), civil society groups, and non-state armed groups. Furthermore, this meeting was attended by Shan representatives, including the Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA), Shan Nationality League for Democracy (SNLD), Shan State Joint Action Committee (SSJAC), and People’s Representatives Committee for Federal (PRCF). Nevertheless, the Myanmar military-led State Administration Council (SAC) representatives were not present.

Representatives from the anti-junta or democratic resistance groups emphasized the significance of the five-point agreement in resolving the country’s situation. One of the five points is an immediate stop of violence in Myanmar. However, the military junta continues to undertake offensives across the whole country. According to reports, armed conflict exists in 71% of the country’s townships or 236 of 330.

According to the anti-military junta groups, the main reasons for increased violence and conflict are that several countries continue to support the military junta by selling weapons and providing raw materials, training, and machinery. Thus, they asked ASEAN members and worldwide communities to take part in the following:

1. Stop the provision of armaments to the military junta and impose sanctions against the military regime.
2. Provide humanitarian assistance to individuals who are experiencing difficulties as a result of human rights violations committed by the military.
3. Provide assistance to ASEAN in its endeavor to resolve the Myanmar crisis.
4. Refrain from supporting any initiatives that fail to involve all parties or any initiatives that would result in no progress.
5. Establish an inclusive dialogue with “all parties” to address Myanmar’s crisis.
6. Establish an office for the ASEAN envoy to address Myanmar’s situation.

While the prior six points generally sound in line with the SAC’s plans, point seven emphasizes a more determined approach. It states, “We are completely unwilling to negotiate with the racist and terrorist regime. However, for the sake of our nation, we are willing to discuss. As a result, we seek help from ASEAN and the world community.”

So, we want ASEAN’s assistance in the following areas: organizing dialogue preparatory sessions, drafting an interim rule, constitution, and election regulation. Because the gathering will provide an opportunity for parties opposing the military rule to exchange their perspectives and collaborate on solutions.