The Canadian government has announced sanctions against 13 individuals, including members of the military council, ministers, and deputy ministers, along with 3 departments, as declared by Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly on March 8. This action comes in response to the deteriorating peace, security, and stability in Myanmar, as well as ongoing human rights violations. The sanctions target individuals who have played significant roles in the military council’s operations and decision-making processes.
Among those sanctioned are 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, the sanctions extend to the military council’s Ministry of Defense, Myanmar Armed Forces, and Infantry Battalion 33.
The Canadian government’s decision reflects its response to the severe human rights violations, violence, oppression, and instability in Myanmar. According to UN reports, as of December 2, 2024, military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 6,000 civilians. In the first four months of 2024 alone, military airstrikes caused the deaths of 359 civilians, including 61 children, with 756 civilians sustaining injuries. These statistics underscore the devastating impact of the military’s actions on civilian populations.
Canada has called upon the international community to take action against the Myanmar military council and has demanded the cessation of all operational and financial support to the Myanmar military, including the transfer of weapons, military equipment, and technical assistance. The Canadian government has committed to continuing its collaboration with international partners to achieve lasting peace that includes all stakeholders, restore democratic governance, and ensure accountability for human rights violations in Myanmar. Currently, Canada has imposed sanctions on 149 individuals and 92 organizations associated with the military council, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to addressing the crisis in Myanmar through diplomatic and economic measures.
