Salai Za Uk Ling, executive director of the human rights group, the Chin Human Rights Organization, testified at the hearing that the situation for Christ followers in the country is dire. “Since the military coup in Burma (Myanmar) four years ago, we have witnessed a systematic campaign of religious persecution, particularly targeting the Christian population in Chin State,” Ling stated. “These actions include the destruction of churches, the unlawful killing and enforced disappearance of pastors, the arrest of religious leaders, and severe restrictions on free worship and assembly.”
The sanctions also act as a deterrent to those civilians considering aligning themselves with the State Administration Council (SAC) in light of the planned elections announced by the junta. These elections are widely viewed as an attempt to legitimize the military’s rule, and there will be individuals willing to collaborate to secure personal or political gain. Sanctions like these serve as a warning that anyone who chooses to support the junta will face international repercussions, including financial and personal restrictions.
The video transcript of the proceeding of “Burma in Transition: Next Steps to Advance Religious Freedom and Improve Conditions for Religious Victims” is now available on the USCIRF YouTube channel. The text of CHRO’s written testimony is also available.
Our Mission
CHRO works to protect and promote human rights through monitoring, research, documentation, education and advocacy on behalf of indigenous Chin people and other oppressed and marginalized communities in Myanmar.
Our Vision
Through our work, we envision a meaningful social change and the full realization of the enjoyment of human rights where the equal dignity of all human beings is respected and upheld in a free, just and democratic society.
Salai Za Uk Ling, executive director of the human rights group, the Chin Human Rights Organization, testified at the hearing that the situation for Christ followers in the country is dire. “Since the military coup in Burma (Myanmar) four years ago, we have witnessed a systematic campaign of religious persecution, particularly targeting the Christian population in Chin State,” Ling stated. “These actions include the destruction of churches, the unlawful killing and enforced disappearance of pastors, the arrest of religious leaders, and severe restrictions on free worship and assembly.”
The sanctions also act as a deterrent to those civilians considering aligning themselves with the State Administration Council (SAC) in light of the planned elections announced by the junta. These elections are widely viewed as an attempt to legitimize the military’s rule, and there will be individuals willing to collaborate to secure personal or political gain. Sanctions like these serve as a warning that anyone who chooses to support the junta will face international repercussions, including financial and personal restrictions.
The video transcript of the proceeding of “Burma in Transition: Next Steps to Advance Religious Freedom and Improve Conditions for Religious Victims” is now available on the USCIRF YouTube channel. The text of CHRO’s written testimony is also available.