Today marks four years since the military coup in Myanmar, which overthrew the democratically elected government and created a significant crisis in the Indo-Pacific region. A joint statement was issued by Australia, Canada, the European Union, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The statement condemns "in the strongest terms" the Myanmar military regime's increasing violence against civilians. It highlights human rights violations and systematic persecution of religious and ethnic minorities. The military's airstrikes have reportedly increased almost 25-fold since 2021, averaging three per day.
The countries call on Myanmar's military to "immediately de-escalate violence" and ensure safe humanitarian access across the country. They urge all parties to prioritize civilian protection and adhere to international laws.
As of 2025, humanitarian needs in Myanmar have risen significantly with over one-third of its population requiring assistance. Approximately 15.2 million people need food aid as preventable diseases increase. The ongoing conflict has displaced up to 3.5 million people internally within a year.
Transnational crime is also rising in Myanmar, affecting neighboring countries and risking regional instability. The statement emphasizes that this trajectory is unsustainable for both Myanmar and its neighbors.
The joint statement urges an immediate change from Myanmar’s military regime towards ceasing violence and engaging in dialogue with stakeholders for a peaceful transition reflecting citizens' will.
Support for ASEAN's role and collaboration with UN Special Envoys is reiterated alongside calls for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2669 (2022). The need for accountability for atrocities committed in Myanmar is underlined.
The signatories express solidarity with Myanmar's people supporting their vision for an inclusive future.