Myanmar elections: UN concerned over human rights situation of minorities

The UN has expressed concerns over the human rights situation, including violations of right to political participation of minority groups – Rohingyas and ethnic Rakhines -- ahead of the general elections in Myanmar on November 8.

While the elections represent an important milestone in Myanmar's democratic transition, the civic space is still marred by continuing restrictions of the freedoms of expression and access to information, it said in a statement today.

"Myanmar's discriminatory citizenship and electoral laws confer different sets of political rights to different classes of citizens, affecting most clearly the Muslim minorities who are largely excluded from citizenship," spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ravina Shamdasani, said in a briefing in Geneva.

Additionally, there has been significant disenfranchisement as elections would not be taking place in 56 townships, including in Rakhine State. The Election Commission did not provide public justification for its decision, she said.

Also, an internet shutdown effectively remains in place in eight townships in Rakhine and Chin states, severely limiting the ability of residents to enjoy their right to receive and impart information, including on Covid-19 and the elections.