BRUSSELS, Dec 3 (KUNA) -- The European Union (EU) has accused the armed forces in Myanmar of using "disproportionate use of force " against the Rohingya a Muslim minority in Rakhine State and called on the government to take steps to address the situation there.
The spokesperson of EU High Representative Federica Mogherini in a statement here late Friday noted that the recent violence in northern Rakhine State has led to the deaths of civilians and security personnel and to the displacement of thousands of people in the region.
"Reports indicate a marked deterioration of the human rights situation in northern Rakhine State," said the statement.
The EU reiterated its call for the setting up of an independent and credible investigation into the situation in Rakhine state.
"As long as there is no access to the area, including by independent observers and the media, allegations and suspicions about the perpetration of severe human rights violations will continue. It remains vital that the Government implements its initiatives to address the underlying causes of the situation in Rakhine State," it stressed.
The statement continued that "fear, the loss of livelihoods and shelter, and reported disproportionate use of force by the armed forces push many, particularly women and children, to seek refuge in Bangladesh." The EU called on the Bangladesh government not to deport or turn back those fleeing violence in Myanmar.
It said that the recent announcement by the Government of Myanmar of the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry into the recent violence in Rakhine State is "a welcome one." "Its work must be objective and help prevent similar events in the future, including by ensuring accountability for all perpetrators of violence and hatred", added the statement. (end) nk.mt