Terrible conditions for humanity in Myanmar

In the face of international sanctions and partial exclusion from the ASEAN bloc, Myanmar's military junta remains resilient, with its regime not effectively isolated. Despite symbolic measures, the international community's efforts have yet to significantly impact the military's power.

One of the key factors undermining the effectiveness of these measures is the continued substantial business dealings with the junta by major powers like China and Russia. These countries' support, indirectly provided through trade, helps sustain the regime and weakens the impact of sanctions and ASEAN-led boycotts.

The business ties extend beyond geopolitical alliances. For instance, Malaysian oilfield services provider ENRA Group supplies condensate storage and offloading facilities for the Yetagun gas project, contributing to the junta's resources.

The human rights situation within Myanmar's jails and interrogation centers is horrifying, inhuman, and brutal. Detainees are often subjected to forced labor, sexual violence, routine torture during interrogations, and extreme delays or complete denial of medical treatment. Tragically, as of August 29, there were still 22,356 political prisoners in detention, with 7,159 confirmed deaths of political prisoners.

The recent cases of Wut Yee Aung and Wai Moe Naing, both students' union leaders, shed light on the brutal treatment faced by detainees. Wut Yee Aung, a member of the central executive committee of the Dagon University Students' Union, died from head injuries and possibly a brain trauma allegedly suffered during torture at Insein Prison in Yangon. Wai Moe Naing, chairman of the Monywa University Students' Union, was brutally beaten upon arrival at Obo Prison in Mandalay.

Vietnam's state-owned company, Viettel Global Investment, further strengthens the junta's grip on power by being a partner with MEC in the Mytel telecommunications network. This partnership provides the regime with both revenue and surveillance capabilities.

The international community must continue to press for change and hold accountable those who support the junta, whether through trade or political alliances. The lives and freedom of the people of Myanmar depend on it.