Genocide Case Against Myanmar at ICJ ‘A Crucial Step Forward for Accountability’

Statement by Daniel Sullivan, senior advocate for human rights at Refugees International, as Aung San Suu Kyi prepares to defend Myanmar at the ICJ on Wednesday, December 11:

“The genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is a crucial step forward for accountability. It is high time that Myanmar answer for the atrocities committed against the Rohingya.

I recently spoke with many Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh who were hopeful that the case could bring a measure of accountability. They know a judgement will take years, but the existence of an ICJ case alone could help push Myanmar to end the discrimination of the Rohingya—a precondition for return.

Aung San Suu Kyi should be defending the rights of Myanmar’s minorities, not the military that continues to persecute them.”

Daniel Suillivan just returned from a research mission in Bangladesh to look at the humanitarian response two years into the Rohingya crisis. After speaking with Rohingya refugees themselves, NGO workers, UN staff, and government officials, he warns of the increased challenges Rohingyas face.

For an interview with Daniel or for more information, please contact Sarah Sheffer at ssheffer@refugeesinternational.org or 202 540 7029.