Press Releases

1. On January 21 (same day local time), the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar released the Executive Summary of the Final Report submitted by the Independent Commission of Enquiry (ICoE) concerning the alleged human rights violations in the northern part of Rakhine State. (The ICoE was established by the Myanmar Government.) The report includes substantial information regarding mass killings, destruction of property, and looting, among other acts, in 13 locations based on the statements by over 1,000 residents, as well as recommendations for the Myanmar Government and Military. In response, on January 21, the same day, the Myanmar Government announced its position to conduct investigation and prosecution on any criminal acts, based on the above-mentioned recommendations of the ICoE.

2. Japan has repeatedly encouraged the Myanmar Government and Military to investigate the alleged human rights violations in a transparent and credible manner, and to take appropriate measures accordingly. Japan appreciates the submission of the Final Report by the ICoE and the announcement of the position by the Myanmar Government as significant progress in Myanmar’s own efforts to ensure accountability.

3. Japan strongly hopes that both the Myanmar Government and Military will promptly take necessary legal measures based on the recommendations of the ICoE, while also endeavoring to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents and to abide by relevant international law.

4. Japan will continue to support Myanmar’s own efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Rakhine State and to facilitate the return of displaced persons, and to provide full-fledged support for Myanmar’s democratic nation-building.