UN report reveals shocking civilian death toll in Myanmar since military coup
Since the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar’s military government has intensified its crackdown on dissent, resulting in the deaths of 5,350 civilians, as reported by the United Nations. The coup led to widespread protests, which were violently suppressed by the military.
The situation has escalated into an armed conflict, with conscription being introduced in February. The UN report, based on remote interviews, highlighted a 50% increase in civilian deaths from April 2023 to June 2024, with many victims killed in air and artillery attacks.
UN officials condemned the human rights abuses, stating that detainees have faced horrific treatment including physical abuse and denial of healthcare. The report also revealed that 27,400 people have been arrested, including children as a form of punishment.
The UN has called for accountability, urging that the rights violations in Myanmar be referred to the International Criminal Court. Despite the damning findings, Myanmar’s military has not responded to the report.