Today marks four years since the military coup in Myanmar, which has led to significant unrest and humanitarian crises in the region. The coup, which ousted the democratically elected government, has left many citizens under military rule, depriving them of rights and democratic aspirations.
The Office of the Spokesperson issued a statement condemning "in the strongest terms" the escalating violence by the Myanmar military regime against civilians. This includes human rights violations, sexual and gender-based violence, and systematic persecution of religious and ethnic minorities. The statement highlighted that military airstrikes have increased almost 25-fold since 2021, averaging three per day, targeting civilians and destroying infrastructure such as schools and medical facilities.
The spokesperson called on the regime to "immediately de-escalate violence" and ensure safe humanitarian access across Myanmar. As of 2025, humanitarian needs have surged twenty-fold since the coup, with over one-third of the population—19.9 million people—in need of assistance. Food insecurity affects an estimated 15.2 million people amid rising preventable diseases.
Internal displacement has affected up to 3.5 million individuals due to increasing conflict; nearly one million more than last year. Additionally, transnational crime such as narcotics production and human trafficking is impacting both Myanmar and neighboring countries.
The statement urged for a change in course by the Myanmar military regime: "We strongly urge...to cease violence...release all political prisoners...and engage in genuine dialogue." It emphasized support for ASEAN's role through its Five Point Consensus and collaboration with UN Special Envoys.
"We will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar," concluded the spokesperson, advocating for accountability for atrocities committed within Myanmar while safeguarding human rights.