A network of Asean-based supporters of human rights and democracy today urged Asean to reconsider its decision to proceed with admitting Burma as a full member at its July Summit. Yesterday, Asean Foreign Ministers decided to delay Cambodia's entry and to admit Laos and Burma at the Summit later this month. A delay in Burma's membership will give Burma's Slorc regime some time to seriously consider and positively respond to Asean's call for dialogue. The Cambodian crisis is an ominous reminder to us all that membership should not be taken lightly and intending members should prove their sincere commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts. In many ways, the situation in Burma parallels Cambodia.
War continues to rage in parts of the country.
A total of more than 200,000 refugees are gathered on its borders with Thailand, Bangladesh and India. Forced relocations and forced labour is rampant. If Asean is willing to recognise the elected representatives of Cambodia, logically, it should do the same for Burma. What Burma's democracy movement and ethnic nationalities ask for is tripartite dialogue. This extremely reasonable request is enthusiastically supported by Asean-based activists and the international community.