UN Security Council Adopts First-Ever Resolution on Myanmar
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has adopted its first resolution on Myanmar in 74 years, which demands an end to violence and calls on the country's military rulers to release all political prisoners, including National League for Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The 15 member council has been split on Myanmar for decades and was previously only able to agree on formal statements about the country, which has been under military rule since February 2021.
Wednesday's resolution 'urges' the Myanmar junta to 'immediately release all arbitrarily detained prisoners,' including Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint.
It also demands 'an immediate end to all forms of violence' and asks for 'all parties to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.'
The adoption marked a moment of relative unity for the UN Security Council in a year in which divisions have been heightened by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
'Any opportunity for the Security Council to speak with one strong, united voice on any issue and especially on Myanmar, would be much welcomed,' UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's spokesperson said ahead of the vote.
The text was adopted with 12 votes in favor. Permanent members China and Russia abstained, opting not to wield vetoes following amendments to the wording. India also abstained.
United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the resolution sent a 'strong message' from the world that the junta 'must end its violence across the country' and free prisoners.
'While we applaud the adoption of this resolution, the council still has much more work to do to advance a just solution to the crisis,' Antony Blinken said, calling for greater efforts to restore democracy.
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