Myanmar Now Subject to UK and Canadian Economic Sanctions
Global Response to Human Rights Abuses
In a joint action, the United Kingdom and Canada have imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. The sanctions target individuals and entities involved in the military coup and subsequent human rights abuses.
UK Sanctions
The UK's sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans on 19 individuals, including the coup leaders and their associates. Additionally, six entities linked to the military have been sanctioned.
UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab stated, "These sanctions send a clear message that the UK condemns the military coup and will hold those responsible to account."
Canadian Sanctions
Canada's sanctions target 16 individuals and four entities for their role in the coup and human rights violations.
Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau said, "Canada strongly condemns the ongoing violence against civilians and urges the Myanmar military to respect human rights and the rule of law."
International Condemnation
The UK and Canada's sanctions follow a global wave of condemnation of the coup and human rights abuses in Myanmar.
The United Nations Security Council has held closed-door discussions on the situation, while the United States and the European Union have also imposed sanctions on Myanmar.
The military has responded to the international pressure with a violent crackdown on protesters and journalists.
Ongoing Crisis
The people of Myanmar continue to face a dire humanitarian situation, with widespread poverty and displacement.
The UN estimates that over 100,000 people have been internally displaced and more than 3,000 have been arrested since the coup.
The military has also imposed internet blackouts and cracked down on independent media outlets.
Next Steps
The UK and Canada's sanctions are a step towards holding those responsible for the human rights abuses in Myanmar accountable.
However, the international community must continue to pressure the military to end the violence and restore democracy.
