The Canadian government has announced sanctions against 13 individuals including members of the terrorist military council, ministers, deputy ministers, and 3 departments, as declared by Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly on March 8. These sanctions were imposed in response to actions that have undermined peace, security, and stability while committing human rights violations in Myanmar. The sanctioned individuals include military council member Dr. Ba Shwe, General Moe Aung, Minister Kan Zaw, Minister Ko Ko Hlaing, Deputy Minister for Communications Brigadier General Lu Mon, Deputy Minister for Transport Aung Kyaw Tun, Deputy Minister for Transport Aung Myint, Deputy Minister for Defense Colonel Ko Lay, Deputy Minister for Planning and Finance Than Than Lin, Deputy Minister Min Htut, Military Council Office Minister Khun Thant Zaw Htoo, Htin Kyaw Soe, and Aung Kyaw Ho.
Additionally, Canada has sanctioned the military council’s Ministry of Defense, Myanmar Armed Forces, and Infantry Battalion 33. According to the Canadian government’s statement, these sanctions are in response to the military council’s severe human rights violations, violence, oppression, and instability. The current situation has worsened the humanitarian crisis and increased violence against civilians. According to UN reports, as of December 2, 2024, military killings have resulted in over 6,000 civilian deaths, and in the first four months of 2024, airstrikes killed 359 civilians, including 61 children, while injuring 756 others.
Canada urges all countries to take action against the Myanmar military council, calling for the suspension of all operational and financial support to the military, as well as the transfer of arms, military equipment, and military technical assistance. The Canadian government has stated it will continue working with international partners to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace in Myanmar, while pursuing accountability for human rights violations and the restoration of democratic governance. Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized that Canada will not remain silent on the military council’s violations of peace, security, stability, and human rights, and will continue supporting the Myanmar people’s aspirations for a peaceful and inclusive democratic future. To date, Canada has sanctioned 149 individuals and 92 organizations associated with the Myanmar military council.
