EN Official Journal of the European Union CE 88/687

(2004/C 88 E/0706)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0148/04

by Cees Bremmer (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(26 January 2004)

Subject: Human rights in Burma

Is the Commission aware of the very serious human rights abuses in Burma committed by the military junta since the most recent democratic elections in 1990? These abuses have involved the oppression of various ethnic groups, which have led to, among other things, the problem of Burmese refugees in north-east India (Christians from the Chin ethnic group), who fled the terror inflicted by the Burmese army, and to the problem of the Burmese Rohingya Muslim refugees in Bangladesh?

Does the Commission share the view that Burma has failed significantly to meet its obligations as a member of the UN and that it is the task of the international community, and of the European Community in particular, to bring this to Burma's attention?

Does the Commission share the view that the issue of human rights in Burma can be resolved only through a process of democratisation based on dialogue between the military junta, the democratic opposition and ethnic groups?

With regard to the above point, is the Commission prepared to contribute to the reinforcement of Burma's nascent civil society in, for example, the areas of healthcare, education and the environment, where needs are greatest due to a lack of funds and of organised initiatives?

Is the Commission also prepared to contribute to resolving the refugee question by calling on the Indian authorities not to put any more pressure on Burmese displaced persons in north-east India, and by facilitating the provision of humanitarian aid? Is the Commission further prepared to apply pressure on the Bangladeshi authorities and the UNHCR to ensure that Burmese Rohingya Muslim refugees in the recognised official refugee camps in southern Bangladesh are not forced to return and that unrecognised Rohingya Muslim refugees receive some kind of humanitarian aid?

Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission

(25 February 2004)

The Commission is well aware of reports of alleged persecutions of ethnic minority groups by the military in Burma/Myanmar and has on numerous occasions expressed its grave concern for the human rights situation in the country, particularly in ethnic minority areas, to the Burmese Government.

The Commission has always stated that it is convinced that a lasting solution to the political situation, which is a necessity for the improvement of the human rights situation in Burma, must be based on agreement between the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), the democratically elected ‘opposition’ and the ethnic minorities.

According to the EU Common Position on Burma/Myanmar, non-humanitarian aid or development assistance to Burma remains suspended. However, exceptions may be made for programmes defined in consultation with democratic groups and run with their involvement in areas such as basic education, health and poverty alleviation. Initiatives in support of human rights and democracy can also be supported.

At present, Commission humanitarian support to Burma/Myanmar, totalling approximately EUR 10 million per year, is mainly targeted at refugees, returnees and internally displaced persons. Activities include food aid, basic health and Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), water and sanitation. All humanitarian programmes are implemented by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or International Organisations.

As regards the situation of Burmese refugees in Bangladesh and India, the Commission has discussed its concerns with Indian and Bangladeshi authorities on several occasions.

The Commission is also providing substantial financial assistance to the Rohingya population, both in Bangladesh and in the Rakhine State in Burma. This assistance is provided in full co-operation with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). The Commission will continue to monitor the situation of the Rohyinga refugees closely in order to ensure that no forced repatriation takes place and it remains ready to take further action if needed.