December 11, 2019
THE International Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December. This day coincides with the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 by the United Nations General Assembly.
Human rights based on fairness and inclusiveness is essential in a multi-ethnic, multi-religious country like Myanmar as it transitions into a democracy.
All ethnic people must give importance to unity and mutual respect. No one should look down on the culture and customs of others.
The challenges that Myanmar faces are many, and each challenge calls for strength, patience, and courage. Our nation is a rich tapestry of different people, languages, and religions, woven on a backdrop of vast natural potential.
It is the aim of our country to bring out the beauty of our diversity and to make it our strength by protecting rights, fostering tolerance, and ensuring security to all.
Of the many challenges that our government has been facing, the situation in Rakhine has most strongly captured the attention of the world. As we address long-standing social, economic, and political issues, which have eroded trust and understanding, harmony, and cooperation among different communities in Rakhine, the support of our people and of good friends, who only wish to see us succeed in our endeavors, has been invaluable.
Myanmar is willing and capable of addressing the issue of accountability for alleged violations. The Myanmar government does not and will not condone any human rights abuses. A culture of impunity, by policy or by practice, will not be acceptable.
The human rights situation in all countries can be reviewed constructively and impartially. Every country has human rights and developmental challenges, and Myanmar is no exception.
According to Article 1 of the Universal Human Rights Declaration, all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
However, it is found that some countries have formed a group and are using human rights as a political weapon, for their own interest, and practicing a double-standard policy with other nations.
Myanmar is fully aware of the difference between genuine concern for human rights and political drives. Myanmar experienced neglect of human rights for decades and the nation also enjoyed no rights in the past. Now, Myanmar is transitioning into a democracy to bring everlasting dignity to its people.
We will face the challenges in the right way in order to uphold the dignity of the Union and its citizens.
The road ahead is long, but we will traverse it with confidence, trusting in the power of peace, love, compassion and unity.
GNLM
