UN rights head calls for release of activists

Aug 28, 2007 (DVB)—The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Louise Arbour, released a statement yesterday calling on the Burmese military to release activists detained following fuel price protests.

Arbour expressed concern over the recent spate of arrests and called on the military to “engage in consultation and dialogue” with demonstrators.

“. . . freedom of expression and association are touchstones of human rights,” Arbour said. “Allowing greater space for citizens to express their views and discontent will be essential in fostering the way towards a democratic transition and reconciliation in the country.”

The UN rights leader’s statement followed calls by secretary general Ban Ki-moon and the US and UK governments last week for the release of all detained protestors, including the leaders of the 88 Generation Students group.

Burmese activists and lobby groups, including U Htay Kywe, US Campaign for Burma and Burma campaign UK, have called on the UN to take action against the military for what the US State Department has described as a “blatant attempt to intimidate and silence those who are engaged in the peaceful promotion of democracy.”

USCB’s policy director Aung Din said last week urged the UN not to remain complacent over the human rights situation in Burma.

“It is time for Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to personally intervene and the Security Council to formulate a collective response,” Aung Din said.

Reporting by Jessicah Curtis