Please find below quotes from APHR Co-Chair, Charles Santiago, responding to the invitation of Myanmar junta representatives by the European Union to the EU-ASEAN Civil Society Forum:
“The invitation extended to the military junta by the European Union to the EU-ASEAN Civil Society Forum goes against the calls of Myanmar civil society organizations who have warned that any engagement with the regime risks legitimization. The EU must immediately retract this invitation to ensure meaningful dialogue takes place without the Myanmar military's interference and take steps to ensure actors committed to democracy are present, including the National Unity Government."
“It is particularly shocking to see that the European Union has invited Myanmar military representatives to the EU-ASEAN Civil Society Forum, given that the EU has called for an end to any engagements with the junta and for the civilian government and parliament to be restored. The EU must end all communication with the junta beginning by retracting this invitation. The NUG must be recognized and invited to this important dialogue. Further, the EU must stand with the people of Myanmar, which aligns with their own resolution."
“It is disappointing to see the European Union express a willingness to engage with the Myanmar military following their invitation to them to attend the EU-ASEAN Civil Society Forum. The EU has previously expressed concern and condemnation for the junta’s indiscriminate attacks against civilians. The invitation suggests that the EU is normalizing relations with the junta, rather than pro-democracy stakeholders such as the NUG. They must immediately reverse their decision to show solidarity with the people of Burma who are truly committed to restoring democracy."
