The statement was delivered on behalf of Burmese Atheists, a grassroots humanist organisation facing grave security risks in Myanmar. It voiced strong support for the work of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) and the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The organisations stressed that the IIMM’s evidence must underpin accountability processes for international crimes, including indiscriminate bombings, extrajudicial killings, forced conscription, unlawful detention, and systematic repression of civilians, including ethnic and religious minorities.
On the regime’s plans to stage elections this December, Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr), representing Burmese Atheists, gave a stark assessment:
“I, Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr), representing Burmese Atheists, believe that we stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar – not just as atheists or Burmese citizens, but first and foremost as fellow human beings. Under the rule of the military junta, the hope for a secular and democratic federal state remains out of reach. The upcoming election cannot be considered legitimate. With 25% of parliamentary seats reserved for unelected military representatives and military-backed parties dominating the field, the process is fundamentally flawed. Popular opposition parties are banned, their leaders – including union organizers – are being arrested, and their voices silenced. An election held under such conditions cannot produce a truly democratic government.”
The statement underlined that any credible electoral process must be inclusive, transparent, and conducted free from coercion. This requires the release of political prisoners, including State Councillor Aung San Suu Kyi and detained trade unionists; the restoration of independent media; and full guarantees of freedom of expression, association, and political participation.
Concluding, Humanists International and Burmese Atheists called on the Council to reject Myanmar’s sham election process and to mobilize coordinated international efforts to restore genuine civilian rule. This statement followed several made in the last number of years by Burmese Atheists at the UN with the support of Humanists International.
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