ASEAN has expressed grave concerns over the escalating conflicts and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Myanmar through a statement released following the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. The statement, issued on July 11, emphasized the organization’s deep worry about the increasing violence and conflicts that have led to worsening humanitarian conditions for civilians. The ASEAN member states reaffirmed their commitment to fully implementing the Five-Point Consensus as a framework for addressing the Myanmar crisis.
The ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting strongly condemned the ongoing violence against civilians and public infrastructure. The ministers urged all relevant parties to immediately cease violence, de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, create conditions conducive to humanitarian aid delivery, and establish appropriate conditions for inclusive dialogue. The statement emphasized the urgent need for constructive engagement to address the growing humanitarian crisis affecting Myanmar’s civilian population.
ASEAN welcomed the ceasefire declarations made within Myanmar and acknowledged the progress of humanitarian assistance efforts coordinated by the AHA Centre. The humanitarian assistance component represents the fourth point of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus, which continues to be implemented despite challenging circumstances. The statement also recognized and valued the efforts of ASEAN Special Envoy to Myanmar, Tan Sri Othman Hashim, in his ongoing work to address the crisis.
Despite ASEAN’s persistent calls for implementing the Five-Point Consensus since the military takeover in 2021, no significant progress has been achieved to date. The political, economic, and social crises resulting from the military coup continue to worsen daily, with severe impacts on the civilian population. The humanitarian situation remains critical, with civilians bearing the brunt of ongoing conflicts and instability. ASEAN’s inability to effectively resolve the Myanmar crisis and implement practical measures to end the military dictatorship highlights the challenges facing regional efforts to restore peace and stability in Myanmar. The continued deterioration of human rights conditions and the lack of meaningful progress toward resolving the crisis underscore the urgent need for more effective international intervention and support for Myanmar’s civilian population.
