Myanmar ‘risks becoming a forgotten crisis’, UN envoy warns

Criminal networks operating from Myanmar have spiralled ‘out of control’ with 3.4 million people displaced by fighting, special envoy says

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A rebel fighter stands guard in Karen state looking out over territory controlled by ethnic armed groups opposed to Myanmar’s military junta. Photo: Reuters

Published: 11:36am, 30 Oct 2024Updated: 11:42am, 30 Oct 2024

The United Nations’ special envoy to Myanmar has denounced what she called a “zero-sum mentality” among those involved in the long-simmering conflict there, saying that only a stop to the violence would open the door to reconciliation.

Julie Bishop made the comments on Tuesday in her first address to a UN General Assembly committee since being named to the position in April.

Myanmar’s military, which seized power in a 2021 coup, has faced intensified fighting for the past year from armed groups across the Southeast Asian nation, especially an alliance of ethnic rebel groups.

“Myanmar actors must move beyond the current zero-sum mentality. There can be little progress on addressing the needs of the people while armed conflict continues across the country,” Bishop said.

Smoke rises from an explosion during a bombardment carried out by Myanmar’s military in Lashio, northern Shan state, last month. Photo: AFP

“Any pathway to reconciliation requires an end to violence, accountability and unfettered access for the UN and its partners,” especially marginalised groups such as the mostly Muslim ethnic Rohingya, she added.

“The Myanmar conflict risks becoming a forgotten crisis. The people of Myanmar, having suffered so much, deserve better.”