Hidden crisis in Burma

SIR – While Aung San Suu Kyi’s visit to Britain showed that some changes are taking place in Burma, recent events in western Burma indicate that there is still a long way to go.

In the past three weeks, sectarian violence between Buddhist Rakhine and Muslim Rohingya has resulted in hundreds of deaths, the destruction of at least 22 villages, and the displacement of at least 90,000 people. A humanitarian crisis is unfolding, out of sight of the international community because the media, human rights monitors and aid agencies have been denied access to the affected areas.

There is now an urgent need for international action. The priority must be to put pressure on the government of Burma to stop the violence and to provide unhindered access for aid agencies to all affected areas. More emergency aid is needed, and pressure on Bangladesh to allow refugees to flee across its borders is required.

While violence has been committed by both sides, the Rohingya are the primary victims, having faced persecution for years. Burma needs to revise its 1982 citizenship law, which does not recognise the Rohingya as citizens, even though they have lived in Burma for generations. Their statelessness leaves them vulnerable.

This crisis has consequences for regional peace and security, and for Burma’s reforms. It merits the urgent attention of the UN Security Council and the Secretary‑General. As a permanent member of the Security Council, Britain should ensure that this is placed on the agenda immediately.

Lord Alton of Liverpool
Baroness Cox
Baroness Jenkin of Kennington
Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
Lord Steel of Aikwood
Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
London SW1