Statements

The Network for Human Rights Documentation- Burma (ND-Burma) released its first report, “We have to give them so much that our stomachs are empty of food: The Hidden Impact of Burma’s Arbitrary and Corrupt Taxation.” Based on 342 interviews, the report reveals how widespread, arbitrary taxation damages the country’s economy, exacerbates poverty, and contributes to the ongoing and systematic violation of the people’s most basic right to an adequate standard of living, housing, and education.

CHRO CONDEMNS DESTRUCTION OF CHRISTIAN CROSS IN CHIN STATE

Chiang Mai, Thailand: The Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) strongly condemns the destruction of another Christian cross in Chin State on the orders of Burma’s military regime.

[Maesot, Thailand] The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners- Burma warmly applauds the United States of America for their decision to support the establishment of a United Nations Commission of Inquiry to investigate crimes against humanity in Burma. AAPP is appealing to ASEAN, members of the European Union, and other like-minded nations to stand in solidarity with the Burmese people and pledge their support for a Commission of Inquiry.

Information Release
Date: 19 May 2010

We, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma), have learnt that Ko Kyaw Soe passed away in Myingyan Prison on the morning of 19 May 2010, at age 39. He is the 144th political prisoner to die in prison, in Burma.