Bi-weekly Update on the Current Situation in Myanmar (16-10-2025 to 31-10-2025)

Bi-weekly Update on the Current Situation in Myanmar

(16-10-2025 to 31-10-2025)

(57) months ago, on 1 February 2021, the military junta attempted an illegal coup, toppled the elected civilian government, and unlawfully detained State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint, and other senior members of the elected civilian government, parliamentarians and activists. Since then, the military junta has ignored the will of the people of Myanmar, placed the country in turmoil, and made people suffer tremendously as a result of its inhumane and disproportionate acts.

Moreover, over 3.6 million people are being displaced. Almost 22 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Among them, over 10.4 million are women and girls, and over 6.3 million are children. 116, 897 houses were burned down throughout Myanmar since the illegal coup until the end of 31 of May 2025, according to Data for Myanmar.

According to the UNDP, 49.7 % of the population in Myanmar was living under the national poverty line in 2023. Again, its report in June 2025 revealed that even in Myanmar’s commercial hub, Yangon, nearly half of the city’s population lives in poverty, and the economic collapse, displacement, and inadequate services are pushing more families into poverty every day.

Moreover, due to the complete dismantle of rule of law by the junta, transnational organized crimes including online scam, drug and human trafficking are rising across the country and generating security implication to the region and beyond.

Unfortunately, the suffering of the people has been compounded by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake which struck Myanmar on 28 March. Sagaing Region, Mandalay Region and Nay Pyi Taw were among the hardest hits. Due to the earthquake, almost 4,200 people killed, over 3,680 people injured. Over 3.2 million people were affected. Infrastructures as well as houses and religious facilities were severely destroyed.

According to the data collected by AAPP, from 1 to 31 October 2025, (114) people in total; (49) women and (65) men, were killed by the junta across the country, including (38) children under the age of 18. These are the numbers that have been verified. Among these deaths, Shan State recorded the highest number of fatalities, totaling (40), followed by (34) in Sagaing Region. Meanwhile, (91) people were killed by the junta’s airstrikes marking the highest cause of death. The AAPP has also received information regarding the death of (110) civilians during the stated period, as a result of junta attacks, whose identities have yet to be confirmed.

Amidst such suffering, the military junta has continued carrying out of atrocities, aerial and artillery attacks across the country.

War Crimes, Crimes against Humanity and Mass Murders Committed by the Military Junta

Military Junta Airstrikes and Massacres Intensify Nationwide as Human Rights Violations Surge in October 2025

Data released by the Ministry of Human Rights of the National Unity Government confirms a sharp escalation in aerial attacks, massacres and other human rights violations committed by the military junta across Myanmar during October 2025.

According to the data, the military junta conducted (250) airstrikes across Myanmar during October. These attacks resulted in (158) civilian deaths and (522) injuries. Mandalay Region experienced the highest number of airstrikes with (50), followed by Sagaing Region with (40) and Shan State with (37). Among the fatalities, (38) were children under eighteen years of age. Of those injured, (67) were children.

The airstrikes destroyed civilian infrastructure across the country, including (264) houses, (24) schools, (3) medical centres and (18) religious buildings comprising (17) Buddhist religious buildings and one Christian religious building. Shan State recorded the highest number of houses destroyed with (129), followed by Sagaing Region with (50) and Mandalay Region with (26). The destruction of schools was most severe in Mandalay Region with (12) schools damaged or destroyed, followed by Sagaing Region with three and Bago Region with three.

The Ministry documented eleven incidents of massacre in October, resulting in (116) deaths. Among the victims, (16) were children under eighteen years of age. Sagaing Region and Ayeyarwady Region recorded the highest number of massacre fatalities with (23) deaths each, followed by Shan State with (14) deaths, Rakhine State with (7) deaths, Mandalay Region and Mon State with (5) deaths each. By gender, (78) of the deceased were male, (31) were female and seven remained unidentified.

Overall, the Ministry recorded (559) human rights violations during the month of October. Property destruction was the most prevalent violation with (130) cases, followed by extrajudicial killings at (107) cases, forced labour at (63) cases, forced displacement at (36) cases, arbitrary arrest at (21) cases, torture at (14) cases, restrictions on freedom of movement at (12) cases, destruction of religious buildings at (11) cases, arbitrary detention at (9) cases, violations of freedom of expression at (7) cases, attacks on medical centres at (4) cases, unfair trials at (2) cases, use of child soldiers at (1) case, enforced disappearances at (1) case and sexual violence at (1) case. Sagaing Region recorded the greatest number of human rights violations in October with a total of (122) cases.

The Ministry warned that the figures likely underrepresent the true scale of violations, as documentation is hindered by communication blackouts, security restrictions and the continued presence of junta forces in conflict areas. Data was updated as of 31 October 2025.

Military Junta Air Force Bombs Mindat Township for Two Consecutive Days, Injuring Civilians

The junta air force conducted airstrikes on Mindat Township in southern Chin State for two consecutive days, leaving several civilians injured, Mizzima reported. The airstrikes occurred at approximately 2:30 pm on 26 October and again at around 7:50 pm on 27 October, when a jet fighter dropped two bombs each day on the township.

The first bombing attack took place in broad daylight, allowing everyone to escape unharmed. However, the second attack targeted the same area at night, when residents had little time to seek shelter, resulting in several injuries. The number of people injured still couldn’t be verified yet.  Local news outlets reported that the bombs targeted the site of the former township police station, which is now under the control of revolutionary forces.

In October alone, the military junta carried out four airstrikes on Mindat Township. During a bombing on 4 October, three civilians were injured, and several buildings were damaged. Another attack on 9 October killed three students and a disabled woman when a school was hit. Sources indicated that the military junta is preparing for larger operations in Chin State, alongside ongoing airstrikes, as it pushes ahead with plans to hold elections.

Military Junta Escalates Airstrikes on Schools Across Chin State, Killing Students and Civilians

The military junta has intensified airstrikes targeting schools across Chin State, deliberately attacking civilian education sites in recent weeks, local news medias reported.  A school in Zathal village, Senthang area of Hakha Township, was struck twice by the junta’s airstrikes at around 1 am on 21 October. The attack followed a similar bombing on 13 October, when two bombs were dropped on Vanha village school at approximately 10 am.

On 8 October, military junta aircraft bombed schools in Htin Chaung and Wamathoo villages in Mindat Township at about 7 pm. In total, schools in five Chin villages were attacked within just 13 days.  Although no casualties were reported in the 21 October strike, the Zathal village school and a nearby house sustained damages. The Vanha school bombing killed two students, one male and one female, and injured 21 others. The earlier attack on Htin Chaung killed a disabled woman and three male students, while wounding 22 others.

An official from the Senthang Revolution Force told Mizzima that there are no military operations, no battles, and no army camps in the area anymore, stating that the military junta is bombing indiscriminately. The official condemned the attacks as acts of terror intended to intimidate civilians and force support for the military junta planned elections. The Hakha Township Central Council and interim Mindat Township People's Administration have also issued notices advising the closure of schools amid the escalating air raids.

Military Junta Airstrike on Mogok Kills Three Children, Injures Twelve Civilians

Three children were killed and 12 civilians, including another child, were injured when the military junta carried out an airstrike on Mogok town in northern Shan State, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) stated on 21 October 2025.

The TNLA, which controls Mogok, reported that military junta fighter jets dropped two 250-pound bombs near the Kan Thone Lone Futsal Ground in Kantaw Ward at approximately 2:58 pm. The group stated there was no fighting in the area at the time of the strike.

The TNLA identified the victims as Ma Mon Thu, aged 12, Ma Khu Tha, aged 6, and Ma Char Shi, aged 12. Twelve other residents, including a child, were wounded, while 11 houses and a futsal ground were damaged. The TNLA stated that the Mogok attack was part of a series of aerial assaults carried out by the military junta between 1 and 20 October across several Shan State townships, including Mantong, Kyaukme, Hsipaw, Mongngawt, Monglon, Namhsam, Namtu, Momeik, and Mogok.

According to the TNLA, those airstrikes killed seven children, 13 men, and 21 women, and injured two monks, 11 children, 17 men, and 17 women. A total of 143 houses, four schools, four monasteries, eight school buildings, three other structures, two poultry farms, five shops, one tea factory, four motorbikes, and one vehicle were also damaged. The TNLA added that on 19 October, military junta aircraft dropped bombs near a school in Kyauk Phar Village, west of Mogok, striking a poultry farm owned by local residents.

Military Junta Airstrikes Kill 39 Civilians in Rakhine State and Ayeyarwady Region

At least 39 civilians were killed and 18 others were injured by military junta airstrikes on 30 October, targeting locations in northern Rakhine State and Ayeyarwady Region, the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) reported.

In northern Rakhine State, at least 15 civilians were killed and 10 were injured when military junta airstrikes hit Ponnagyun and Rathedaung townships. The two towns, located 20 to 40 miles east and north of the Rakhine State capital Sittwe, were seized by the Arakan Army (AA) in March 2024. A Ponnagyun resident told DVB on condition of anonymity that the names and ages of the deceased are not yet known due to the lack of phone networks. Two junta air force jets dropped 500-pound bombs on Zeekyint Village in Rathedaung and Ponnagyun Town. A village administrator was among the 15 killed.

In Ayeyarwady Region, 24 civilians were killed and at least eight others were injured when military junta air force jets struck Sapyin village in Yekyi Township, located 120 miles west of the regional capital Pathein. A Yekyi resident told DVB that in the morning, military junta forces dropped 500-pound bombs using two jet fighters, a total of two times. Four children, three women, and 17 men were killed, and 17 homes were destroyed in Sapyin village, according to residents.

It was the first time military junta airstrikes have been carried out on Yekyi, which lies 25 miles east of Gwa, the nearest town in southern Rakhine State. Gwa was seized by the AA in December 2024. Since then, the AA has expanded its offensive from Rakhine State into Ayeyarwady Region. Fighting between military junta forces and the AA, along with its allied People's Defence Force (PDF), has been ongoing in Yekyi and neighbouring Laymyethna townships since August. Laymyethna Township lies 21 miles northeast of Yekyi and is reportedly under partial AA and PDF control.

The AA has seized control of 14 out of Rakhine State's total 17 townships, as well as Paletwa Township in southern Chin State, where military junta scheduled elections will also not take place.

Human Rights Abuses   

Military Junta Threatens Strict Action Against Critics of Election Propaganda Film

The military junta has warned that it will take strict action against anyone who criticises its election propaganda film, Those Who Drive History Forward, according to their spokesperson Zaw Min Htun.

Speaking on 29 October via the military junta controlled Myawaddy TV, Zaw Min Htun praised the artists involved and issued a stern warning to critics. He stated that he would like to thank all the artists who participated in the film and those who supported it, adding that the military junta will take effective and strict action against those who threaten or criticise it.

Director Maik Tee, supporting actor Kyaw Win Htut, and comedian Ohn Daing have already been arrested and charged under the so-called Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction for allegedly criticising the film.

The propaganda film reportedly portrays the ongoing revolution in a negative light while promoting the military junta planned sham election.  The Sanchaung Main Strike Group released a statement condemning the participating artists, accusing them of aiding and abetting the military junta war crimes. The group stated that the film glorifies the military junta, which continues to carry out airstrikes, burn villages, and kill civilians, while mocking the suffering of the people.

Activists both inside Myanmar and abroad have called for a boycott of the artists involved and the products they endorse. Meanwhile, several urban guerrilla groups in Yangon Region announced on 28 October that they would take punitive action against the artists featured in the propaganda film.

Since seizing power in 2021, the military junta has continued to arrest and imprison not only those who oppose its rule or support the resistance, but also individuals who criticize its election campaign on social media.

Military Junta Illegally Enacts New Law Imposing Prison Sentences for Election Critics and Protesters

The military junta announced on 29 October that it has illegally enacted a new law dictating prison sentences for critics or protesters of its planned election, which is being boycotted by opposition groups.

The military junta seized power in a 2021 coup, sparking a many-sided civil war, and has promoted so-called elections at the end of this year. Opposition groups, including democratic lawmakers ousted by the military takeover, and international monitors have called the poll a ploy to legitimize the military junta rule.

The military junta controlled state newspaper The Global New Light of Myanmar reported that the so-called Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic Elections from Obstruction, Disruption and Destruction was enacted on 28 October.

The 14-page text forbids any speech, organising, inciting, protesting or distributing leaflets in order to destroy a part of the electoral process. Individuals convicted face between three and seven years behind bars, while offences committed in groups can result in sentences between five and 10 years.

The legislation also outlaws damaging ballot papers and polling stations, as well as the intimidation or harm of voters, candidates and election workers, with a maximum punishment of 20 years in prison. The law states that if anyone is killed during an attempt to disrupt the election, everyone involved in the crime faces the death penalty.

Analysts have predicted that the myriad of anti-coup guerrillas and ethnic armed groups the military junta is battling may stage offensives in the run-up to the vote as a sign of their opposition. A United Nations expert called on the international community last month to reject the election plan as a fraud. Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights situation in Myanmar, stated that the military junta is trying to create a mirage of an election exercise that will create a legitimate civilian government.

Labour Union Leader Myo Myo Aye Released but Still Faces Charges, STUM Reports

The Solidarity Trade Union of Myanmar (STUM) stated on 24 October that its leader Myo Myo Aye continues to face charges, after they were reportedly dropped, before being released from Yangon's Insein Prison on 20 October.

STUM stated on its official social media account on 24 October that although prison authorities announced her release under Section 494 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the court later ruled that the charges could not be withdrawn as the case remains under investigation. Myo Myo Aye was released from Insein Prison on 20 October along with labour union leaders Thet Hnin Aung and Thet Htar Swe.

STUM added in its statement that Myo Myo Aye was ordered by the Shwepyithar Township Court on 24 October to sign a bond with two guarantors along with 30 million kyat, requiring her to be on good behaviour for the next six months. Nine other STUM members continue to be detained and face trial under the same legal clauses, the statement concluded. Ten STUM members, including Myo Myo Aye and her daughter Chu Chu Thwe, were arrested in Yangon's Shwepyitha Township in July.

They were charged under Section 5 of the Law Concerning Recidivism on 8 August, carrying up to three years in prison if convicted. They were also charged under Sections 40 and 41 of the Organization Registration Law on 15 September, which carries a maximum sentence of five years.

International human rights and labour organizations, including Human Rights Watch and the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development, have called for the release of all detained STUM members.

Emergency Medical Treatment in Mawlaik-Kalay Prison Only Granted Through Bribery, Political Prisoner Network Reports

Prison staff at Mawlaik-Kalay Prison in Kalay Township, Sagaing Region, are reportedly only granting emergency medical treatment to prisoners, including political prisoners, through acts of bribery and corruption, the Political Prisoner Network Myanmar (PPNM) reported on 23 October.

The Mawlaik-Kalay Prison Department is failing to provide adequate medication and healthcare for prisoners. Furthermore, for emergency cases, external medical treatment is only permitted after paying the requested amounts of money to some staff members, including the prison chief.

The amount paid for a single instance of emergency medical treatment ranges from 500,000 kyat (about USD 120/-) to 2,000,000 kyat (USD 477/-). PPNM stated that on some occasions, prisoners must even cover the prison staff's entertainment expenses to secure external medical treatment.

As a result of being denied medical treatment under these circumstances, some political prisoners are facing severe health issues, including neurological problems that have led to them losing mobility in their legs and becoming disabled within Mawlaik-Kalay Prison.

When news and incidents of the repression of political prisoners within the prison emerge, the prison staff reportedly resolve the issues by staging photo opportunities, such as taking photos that depict health talks, to submit to the Prisons Department Headquarters of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

PPNM stated that the lack of adequate medical care and the denial of emergency medical treatment is not only a form of repression against political prisoners but also a blatant violation of the international human rights principle which states that prisoners shall be treated with respect for their human dignity.

PPNM strongly condemned and denounced the actions of the prison staff at Mawlaik-Kalay Prison who are committing these violations, and demanded an immediate end to the restrictions and denial of emergency medical treatment, which poses a threat to the lives of political prisoners, for any reason whatsoever.

According to PPNM records, from January to October 2025, the number of political prisoners who have died in various prisons due to a lack of sufficient medical care and denial of emergency treatment has reached 28.

The resistance of the people of Myanmar

Resistance Forces Free 15 Detainees in Raid on Hakha Police Station

Resistance forces in Chin State capital Hakha stated they freed 15 detainees, including five resistance fighters, from the Hakha Police Station in a raid on 16 October. Local sources and the Chin National Army (CNA) reported that the operation, led by the Hakha Battalion, liberated five detained members of the resistance and 10 other prisoners whose identities and charges are being verified.

The CNA stated that the police compound sits below the military junta base on Rone Mountain, allowing fighters to mount a quick surprise assault and withdraw. CNA spokesperson Salai Htet Ni told reporters that the Hakha Battalion led the operation to rescue their captured comrades, managing to free five of their men. The other ten were ordinary detainees, and they are still verifying their cases.

The Chinland Defence Force–Hakha (CDF–Hakha) stated that the assault began at about 2:30 am under the direct supervision of the regional commander-in-chief and commanders from Battalion 4. The firefight lasted roughly an hour and a half, the CDF–Hakha added, stating that six military junta soldiers were killed and several weapons and rounds of ammunition were seized.

The CDF–Hakha reported no battlefield casualties during the raid itself but stated that one of its fighters was killed by military junta fire during the retreat at around 4 am.

Following the operation, military junta forces shelled nearby villages with heavy artillery, the CNA spokesperson stated, adding that security in the town had been tightened. He stated that whenever something happens in Hakha, they start firing randomly, adding that fortunately no civilians were injured this time.

The raid was the second successful breakout at the same police compound. A similar operation on 20 July 2024 freed 62 detainees, including 13 resistance members, 30 political prisoners, and 19 others arrested on criminal charges.

The rescue comes days after the military junta announced that Hakha and Tedim townships would be included in the first phase of its planned 28 December election. Resistance groups have opposed the vote and the military junta has warned of punitive measures against boycott or disruption.

People's Defence Force Seizes Military Junta Bases in Yedashe Township Near Naypyitaw

The People's Defence Force (PDF) under the Naypyitaw Military Region Command seized several military junta bases in Ywathit Village, Yedashe Township, Bago Region, on 20 October, Mizzima reported. The military junta has since launched continuous air and artillery attacks in retaliation.

PDF units captured the main military outpost and nearby positions on the eastern bank of the Sittaung River. The group stated that 15 military junta troops, including Deputy Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Nyi Nyi Naing from the Air Defence Force, were killed in the assault, while two soldiers were taken prisoner.

PDF spokesperson Bo Lat Ya told Mizzima that airstrikes and heavy shelling continue, with two or three paramotors dropping bombs on that day alone. He stated that Yedashe, Swar, and Yenin are key strategic towns controlling access to Naypyitaw through both the old and new Yangon–Mandalay highways, adding that their capture would isolate the military junta administrative capital.

The military junta has reportedly deployed aircraft carrying 500-pound bombs, 120mm artillery, and paratroopers in attempts to retake the bases. Fighting in the area remains fierce. According to CDM Captain Zinyaw, the PDF now controls the east bank of the Sittaung River, while military junta forces hold positions on the west bank. He stated that the resistance operations in Yedashe and nearby areas pose a major challenge to the military junta plan to hold an election.

The Ministry of Defence under the National Unity Government stated that the Naypyitaw Military Region Command is continuing coordinated operations along the eastern bank of the Sittaung River and nearby areas.

National League for Democracy Identifies Five Major Weaknesses in Military Junta Planned Election

The National League for Democracy (NLD) has identified five major weaknesses in the election planned by the military junta, according to a statement issued on 28 October. The NLD stated that the planned election completely lacks freedom of expression, association, and political activity. It is being organized amid widespread conflict across the country and can only take place in about one-third of Myanmar's territory.

The party stated that the voting process will not occur simultaneously nationwide but will instead take place at different times and locations. It added that the parliament formed from the first phase of the election would not be representative of the people, as more than half of its members would be unelected military representatives. The NLD described the planned election as an attempt to disguise military rule as a civilian government, warning that accepting such a process would only legitimise the military junta dictatorship.

Citing Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), a United Nations treaty, the NLD emphasized that the election clearly violates international principles guaranteeing freedom of assembly, movement, and political participation without fear or punishment.

The party also pointed out that the military junta has enacted the Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction, allowing it to arrest and prosecute anyone opposing the planned election.

The NLD urged the international community not to recognize or cooperate with the military junta election, warning that doing so would amount to rejecting the will of the Myanmar people. It called on foreign governments not to send election observers, to issue a joint statement of non-recognition, and to refuse acknowledgment of the election results.

Additionally, the party urged other nations to avoid engaging with any new political entity that may emerge from the military junta election and to maintain existing sanctions without providing any form of support.

The NLD reaffirmed its commitment to working with local forces to draft and implement interim constitutions and federal unit plans grounded in equality, democracy, and the people's will, with the ultimate goal of establishing a genuine federal union based on democratic principles.

Myanmar Citizens in Japan Send Open Letter to US President Trump Urging Support for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's Release

Myanmar citizens in Japan have sent an open letter to United States President Donald Trump, currently visiting Tokyo, urging him to help secure the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and to support efforts toward restoring peace and democracy in Myanmar.

The letter, addressed directly to President Trump, was accompanied by signatures collected through a campaign organized by Myanmar communities in Japan calling for international action to pressure the military junta. The campaign was initiated by the Hands of Peace group, which stated that the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi remains their foremost priority.

A member of Hands of Peace told Mizzima that the priority is the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the restoration of peace in Myanmar, adding that they believe global leaders, especially the United States, can play a decisive role in ending the suffering of Myanmar's people.

According to the organizers, the open letter highlights the worsening human rights situation under military junta rule, the ongoing armed conflict across the country, and the imprisonment of political leaders and activists. The appeal calls for stronger US engagement and coordinated international efforts to secure Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's release and end the military junta violent suppression of civilians. In addition to the letter, several Myanmar organizations in Japan have begun forming a joint committee dedicated to advocating for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's release.

The military junta seized power in a coup in February 2021, overthrowing the elected government led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. She has since been charged with 19 offences and sentenced to a total of 27 years in prison. Her exact place of detention remains undisclosed. Similarly, President U Win Myint was charged with eight offences and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Both remain in military junta custody.

Activities of the National Unity Government

Inter-Parliamentary Union Reaffirms Recognition of Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw

The Executive Committee of the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly on 23 October 2025 reaffirmed its recognition of the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH) as the principal dialogue partner representing Myanmar. The decision was made at a time when the military junta has announced plans to hold sham elections.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union has recognized the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw as the legitimate representative body of the people of Myanmar following the military junta's illegal coup. The Committee has continued to attend IPU assemblies and meetings as Myanmar's representative.

The Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw stated that it will continue to attend IPU meetings as Myanmar's representative and will continue to work on behalf of the people and their aspirations. The Committee emphasised the important role of the international community in resolving the Myanmar crisis and called for practical and sustainable solutions to the ongoing conflicts, as the people remain firm in their demand for genuine freedom, security and a federal democratic system.

NUG Foreign Minister Urges International Parliamentarians to Reject Military Junta's Sham Elections at 151st IPU Assembly

Daw Zin Mar Aung, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs of the National Unity Government, addressed the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly General Debate, calling on international parliamentarians to take concrete action against the military junta and reject its planned December elections. Speaking on behalf of the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), she stated that Myanmar endures one of the gravest humanitarian crises of our time, with over 6,800 civilians killed, 22,000 arbitrarily detained and millions of people displaced since the February 2021 coup.

The Union Minister highlighted that the junta has conducted more than 600 attacks during supposed ceasefires, targeting civilians, obstructing humanitarian access and weaponizing aid. She noted that these actions constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. Addressing the planned December elections, she warned that these fake elections are an attempt to legitimize military rule while the junta controls less than 40 per cent of the territory and political opponents remain imprisoned.

Daw Zin Mar Aung urged international parliamentarians to reject the sham elections and reaffirm the IPU's recognition of the CRPH as the legitimate parliamentary interlocutors. She called for the immediate release of all political prisoners including State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint, unimpeded humanitarian access, comprehensive sanctions including arms and jet fuel embargoes, and support for Myanmar's democratic and ethnic stakeholders.

Myanmar Permanent Representative Delivers Series of Statements at Main Committees’ Meetings During 80th Session of UNGA

Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, Permanent Representative of Myanmar to the United Nations, delivered a series of statements at various main committees’ meetings during the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly from 15 to 31 October 2025.

At the Interactive Discussion with the High Commissioner for Human Rights in the Third Committee on 15 October, the Ambassador thanked High Commissioner Türk for his persistent focus on Myanmar agreed as the crisis in Myanmar as a catastrophic human rights crisis fuelled by relentless military violence and systemic impunity. Ambassador raised a question to the High Commissioner on what are his recommendations to this Committee and the international community including all relevant mandate holders related to Myanmar to save the people of Myanmar and their future from the junta's continued heinous crimes.

At the Joint General Discussion of the Second Committee on Eradication of Poverty and Food Security on 15 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun highlighted that poverty in Myanmar has increased from 24.8 per cent in 2017 to 49.7 per cent in 2023. He stated that 30 per cent of the total population is acutely food insecure, making Myanmar the fifth globally in the number of acutely food-insecure people. He asserted that the planned sham, scam election by the military junta will only perpetuate more violence and instability in the country, further compounding poverty and food insecurity among the most vulnerable.

At the General Debate of the Sixth Committee on Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters on 15 October, the Ambassador stated that the 7.7 magnitude earthquake which struck Myanmar on 28 March claimed the lives of almost 4,200 people, injured more than 3,600, and affected over 3.2 million people. He noted that within days of the earthquake, the military junta continued to launch aerial bombardments on civilian areas. He claimed the deliberate targeting of civilians during a period of humanitarian emergency reflects a policy of terror and a total disregard for international humanitarian law

At the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders in the Third Committee on 16 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that during the 56 months after the attempted coup, over 7,300 people have been murdered and more than 29,000 people have been arbitrarily arrested. He highlighted that women constitute 25 per cent of those killed and 20 per cent of those arrested.

At the Interactive Discussion on Right to Food in the Third Committee on 17 October, the Permanent Representative reported that an estimated 15.2 million people are facing acute food insecurity in 2025 and 3.5 million people are internally displaced. He stated that the military junta operates as a self-serving corporate entity, diverting national revenue for arms and weaponry.

At the General Discussion of the Fifth Committee on Proposed Programme Budget for 2026 on 17 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that latest report of the UN Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) stressed the junta’s atrocities constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Ambassador emphasized that the work carried out by the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Myanmar, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, and the IIMM remains absolutely vital.

At the Interactive Discussion on Enforced Disappearance in the Third Committee on 21 October, the Permanent Representative stated that the crime against humanity of enforced disappearances has been systematically deployed by the military junta to silence dissent, punish civil society, and break the spirit of the pro-democracy movement.

At the Thematic Discussion on Nuclear Weapons in the First Committee on 21 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun expressed serious concern over enhanced collaboration between the military junta and a major nuclear weapon state on their so-called nuclear power plan. He warned that the military junta that weaponizes recreational paramotors against civilians will also weaponize nuclear energy.

At the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Internally Displaced Persons in the Third Committee on 21 October, the Ambassador reported that according to UNHCR data as of 13 October 2025, the number of internally displaced persons in Myanmar has reached over 3.59 million. He insisted that the root causes of the increased numbers of IDPs and the deteriorating situation in Myanmar are the military junta and its illegal coup.

At the Interactive Discussion on Extrajudicial Executions in the Third Committee on 22 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that the right to life is being systematically violated by the military junta through a campaign of extrajudicial, summary, and arbitrary executions. He recalled that in July 2022, prominent political prisoners were executed without fair trial.

At the Thematic Discussion on Other Weapons of Mass Destruction in the First Committee on 22 October, the Ambassador raised concerns about the military junta use of chemical agents, reporting suspected use of high-content tear gas, white phosphorus, and aluminium phosphide in areas under the control of revolutionary forces. He noted that the military junta was reportedly operating a chemical weapons production facility in the 1980s which was never declared.

At the Interactive Discussion on Freedom of Opinion and Expression in the Third Committee on 22 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that the military junta has imposed a digital dictatorship, with websites blocked, internet shut down, and extensive surveillance employed. He noted that the military junta issued the Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections containing extreme penalties including imprisonment and the death penalty to instil public fear.

At the Interactive Discussion on Extreme Poverty in the Third Committee on 22 October, the Permanent Representative stated that over half of Myanmar's population is plunged into poverty, close to 3.6 million people are displaced, and almost 22 million are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

At the General Debate of the Sixth Committee on Universal Jurisdiction on 22 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that the National Unity Government recently submitted evidence to the Turkish court concerning the Pa Zi Gyi massacre in April 2023, which killed over 155 civilians including women and children.

At the Interactive Dialogue on Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Third Committee on 23 October, the Ambassador reported that over 117 persons with disabilities, including women and girls, were killed by the military junta. He stated that at least 26 per cent of those killed were burned alive in their homes when the military junta torched entire villages during raids.

At the General Debate of the Fourth Committee on Mine Action on 23 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that Myanmar now has the highest number of casualties worldwide from landmines and explosive ordnance. According to UNICEF, civilian deaths reached 1,082 in 2024, the highest annual total ever documented. He reported that in 2024 alone, more than 800 children were killed or injured, including at least 300 from mines and explosive remnants of war.

At the Thematic Discussion on Conventional Weapons in the First Committee on 24 October, the Ambassador stated that from February 2021 to May 2023 alone, arms imports to the military junta were worth at least 1 billion US dollars.

At the Interactive Discussion on Right to Education in the Third Committee on 24 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun reported that only 47 per cent of school-aged children are currently enrolled, leaving nearly 7 million children out of school. He stated that from February 2021 to August 2025, over 1,200 children and 2,500 young people were killed by the military junta.

At the Thematic Discussion on Outer Space in the First Committee on 27 October, the Ambassador expressed concern that some member states with major space-faring capabilities have enhanced space technology cooperation with the military junta, including sharing information captured by reconnaissance satellites for military purposes. He reported that from 1 August to 23 October 2025, the military junta conducted 348 airstrikes against civilians killing 357 people.

At the Thematic Discussion on Other Disarmament Measures and International Security in the First Committee on 27 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun highlighted that up to 100,000 young men and women have been trafficked to scam compounds and forced to commit online scams, generating nearly 40 billion US dollars annually. He stated that the military junta and its affiliated Border Guard Forces are creating safe havens for criminal syndicates.

At the Combined Briefing on Myanmar in the Third Committee on 28 October, the Permanent Representative stated that civilian deaths resulting from aerial attacks and artillery shelling in 2025 have reportedly nearly doubled compared to 2024. He reported that 6.9 million children and 10.4 million women and girls continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the crisis.

At the General Debate of the Fourth Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space on 30 October, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun stated that since the illegal coup, over 7,400 people have been killed, the number of displaced has risen to almost 3.6 million, and over 100,000 private properties have been destroyed or burnt down. He reaffirmed Myanmar's position that it is not ready for membership of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, stating that the military junta and peaceful uses of any item are mutually exclusive.

At the Introduction of Draft Resolution on Nuclear Disarmament in the First Committee on 30 October, the Permanent Representative formally introduced draft resolution A/C.1/80/L.44 entitled Nuclear Disarmament, which Myanmar has annually tabled since 1995. He reaffirmed Myanmar's position that the only way to secure a world without nuclear weapons is by their total elimination.

In all his statements, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun appealed to the international community to reject the military junta planned sham election and support the people of Myanmar in their determination to end the military dictatorship and build a federal democratic union.

Response of the International Community

UN Secretary-General Warns Elections in Myanmar Risk Further Exclusion and Instability

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the bloodshed in Myanmar and urged all parties to halt the fighting, protect civilians, allow unimpeded humanitarian access, and engage in an inclusive political process during his remarks at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-UN summit in Malaysia.

The Secretary-General stated that the release of those arbitrarily detained, including democratically elected leaders in Myanmar, is essential. He told ASEAN leaders that under current conditions, any elections in Myanmar risk further exclusion and instability.

Earlier in the day, the Secretary-General held a press conference in which he reiterated his call for an immediate end to the violence in Myanmar and for a credible path back to civilian rule.

UN Independent Investigative Mechanism Reports Escalating International Crimes in Myanmar

The Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), Nicholas Koumjian, made a statement on 28 October at the 80th Session of the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly, reporting increased international crimes in Myanmar, including torture and airstrikes on civilians.

Koumjian stated that since his last appearance, the frequency and severity of international crimes in Myanmar have escalated. The Mechanism has engaged with over 1,300 sources who have provided evidence, including over 600 testimonies from witnesses. The IIMM stated it has amassed evidence that persons detained by military junta forces have been tortured and subjected to various forms of sexual violence, adding that they have evidence of the identity of the perpetrators and their commanders. The Mechanism has also documented several summary executions of captured combatants or civilians. Koumjian stated that the military junta is increasingly relying on airstrikes, adding that the Mechanism is prioritising investigations into strikes on schools, hospitals, homes, and places of worship.

The IIMM noted that violence in Rakhine State has intensified. The Arakan Army has taken most territory in the state, and the military junta has responded with brutal airstrikes and shelling. The Mechanism is gathering evidence of several alleged atrocities, including drone attacks targeting civilians, executions, rape, torture, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid to a population facing starvation.

The Mechanism's evidence has been used by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court and by the Investigative Judge for the Argentine Federal District Court. It is also sharing information for use in the case at the International Court of Justice, where The Gambia alleges that Myanmar has failed to meet its responsibilities under the Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide.

Koumjian warned that the Mechanism risks losing over one-third of its personnel by early next year due to funding constraints, including experts in sexual and gender-based crimes and crimes against children.

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia Calls for Stronger Regional Accountability on Myanmar Crisis

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) issued a statement on 17 October following a forum held on 16 October. The forum, co-hosted by Progressive Voice and the Alternative ASEAN Network on Burma (ALTSEAN-Burma), was titled Strengthening Regional Accountability: ASEAN's Failure on Women, Youth, Peace, and Security in Myanmar.

SUHAKAM stated that it stands in firm solidarity with the people of Myanmar, particularly women and youth who continue to face compounded risks and systematic violence since the illegal attempted coup in 2021. The forum amplified the voices of human rights defenders who shared first-hand testimonies, including the widespread use of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave human rights violations.

SUHAKAM Chairman Dato' Seri Mohd Hishamudin Yunus drew attention to the severe scale of the humanitarian and human rights catastrophe in Myanmar. Current data indicates that the crisis has displaced more than 3.6 million people internally and resulted in over 6,000 civilian deaths since 2021. The discussions underscored the urgent need to end decades-long impunity for atrocities committed by the military junta, which disproportionately target women, girls, and youth from ethnic and religious minorities.

SUHAKAM expressed deep concern over ASEAN's continued inaction and silence regarding the specific needs and voices of Myanmar's women, girls, and youth, stating that their exclusion from consultations and decision-making processes further entrenches marginalisation.

SUHAKAM urged the Malaysian Government and all stakeholders to take concrete action, including utilising all diplomatic channels to press ASEAN and Malaysia, as the Chair of ASEAN for 2025, to immediately prioritise the restoration of peace and stability in Myanmar and ensure unhindered humanitarian access to affected communities before any election takes place. It also called for strengthening efforts to advance justice and accountability for atrocity crimes committed by the military junta, including conflict-related sexual violence.

Report claim Military Junta of Obstructing Earthquake Response to Entrench Control

The military junta systematically obstructed civil society and independent humanitarian response following the devastating 28 March earthquake, according to a new report by the International Centre For-Not-Profit Law (ICNL). The report, titled Civic Aftershock: How Restricting Civil Society Obstructed Myanmar's Earthquake Response, accuses the military junta of weaponising the disaster to entrench its control and suppress civic freedoms.

The 2025 earthquake, which left tens of thousands displaced, was described by the report as a profound human tragedy compounded by harmful state response. Citing the military junta use of the 2022 Organization Registration Law, which criminalizes unregistered associations, the ICNL found that the military junta imposed arbitrary permissions on aid operations and created a hostile legal environment that systematically obstructed and co-opted relief efforts.

Aid workers faced a web of travel bans, checkpoints, and curfews that blocked access to affected areas. Independent media were silenced, while the military junta enforced an information blackout through censorship and propaganda. Civil society volunteers were reportedly subjected to arbitrary arrests, violence, and politically motivated prosecutions.

Despite the repression, the report highlights that informal and unregistered local networks operated clandestinely to deliver life-saving aid, reflecting profound resilience among Myanmar's grassroots organizations. The ICNL urged the international community to recognize these informal networks and channel direct funding to them, bypassing military junta controlled mechanisms. It also called for sustained diplomatic pressure on the military junta to repeal restrictive laws and restore civic space, warning that the military junta remains the primary obstacle to a rights-respecting civil society response to natural disasters.

Justice for Myanmar Demands ASEAN End Complicity in Military Junta Crimes Ahead of Summit

Justice for Myanmar (JFM) released a statement on 23 October demanding the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) put a stop to its complicity in the ongoing crimes being committed by the military junta and reject the military junta planned elections aimed at manufacturing false legitimacy for its continued rule. The call comes on the eve of the 47th ASEAN Summit, hosted by Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.

JFM stated that over four years since ASEAN adopted its failed Five-Point Consensus, the military junta has only escalated its campaign of terror against civilians and its transnational criminal activities, enabled by the complicity of ASEAN, its member states, and regional businesses. As the military junta prepares for its sham election, it has intensified indiscriminate airstrikes across the country and continues to commit mass killings, rape and sexual violence, torture, and the systematic destruction of villages. Over 22,000 people remain arbitrarily detained and subjected to torture.

JFM stated that at least 54 companies based in ASEAN member states maintained business ties with the military junta since the illegal coup attempt of 1 February 2021, including investments and trade in oil and gas, timber, communications and surveillance technology, and aviation fuel that sustain the military junta terror campaign. JFM called on ASEAN to reject the military junta sham election, bar the military junta and its representatives from ASEAN and its bodies, and stand with the people of Myanmar. It urged ASEAN member states and businesses to immediately cut the military junta access to funds, arms, equipment, technology, and aviation fuel.

ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights Warns Against Legitimizing Military Junta Election

The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) released a statement on 26 October warning of the real dangers posed by the legitimization of the military junta upcoming election by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

APHR called out the recent public statement of ASEAN leaders suggesting that the bloc may consider sending observers to the military junta year-end polls while insisting that the elections cannot be stopped by any party. APHR stated that such remarks risk lending credibility to a process that the military junta has made clear cannot be held across the country, and which is taking place against a backdrop of sustained political repression, broad censorship, mass arbitrary detention, and continuing violence that has driven millions from their homes.

APHR stated that it vehemently rejects any step by ASEAN that would normalize or legitimize an electoral exercise carried out by a military junta that has systematically undermined the conditions for free and fair participation.

The network of Southeast Asian lawmakers has worked with regional and international allies to insist that international recognition, technical assistance, or observation of any electoral process in Myanmar can only be considered after independent, verifiable benchmarks are met, including cessation of widespread violence, the unconditional release of political prisoners, and demonstrable ability for all citizens to participate.

Human Rights Watch Calls on ASEAN Summit Attendees to Reject Military Junta Planned Elections

Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a statement on 23 October requesting governments attending the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit reject elections planned by the military junta for December 2025. The rights group made its demand in a letter sent to each nation sending delegates to the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on 26 to 28 October, where the Myanmar crisis will be on the agenda.

HRW stated that the military junta has continued its repression of pro-democracy forces, carried out arbitrary arrests, torture, and abusive conscription, and increased military attacks on civilians. The military junta has intensified its crackdown ahead of the planned elections, which are scheduled to begin on 28 December. HRW urged ASEAN members and partner countries to strengthen efforts to address Myanmar's human rights and humanitarian crisis and the plight of millions of people displaced since the February 2021 coup.

John Sifton, Asia advocacy director at Human Rights Watch, stated that the military junta has demonstrated neither the intention nor the capacity to organize and hold elections that would even remotely meet international standards. He added that the military junta repression and unlawful attacks have created a climate of fear in which no genuine polls can take place, let alone voting that will be free and fair.

HRW noted that the military junta widespread atrocities in recent years have included crimes against humanity and war crimes, arbitrary detention of opposition politicians, and the dissolution and criminalization of opposition political parties. On 30 July, the military junta issued a draconian law that criminalizes criticism of the election by prohibiting speaking, organizing, or protesting that disrupts any part of the electoral process.

UN Special Rapporteur Urges Member States to Reject Military Junta Planned Election

The UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar on 29 October urged member states to reject the military junta planned election. Tom Andrews told a press conference after presenting his report at the 80th UN General Assembly in New York that he made as clearly as he possibly could that these elections are a sham and they are a fraud.

Andrews stressed that a free and fair election could not be held with political prisoners including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi still behind bars, rival parties forcibly disbanded, and free expression and media freedom restricted. Over 22,500 political prisoners are still in detention, while 7,423 people opposed to the military junta have been killed since the 2021 coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Andrews also echoed ASEAN leaders' calls for an end to violence before any vote in Myanmar, the first point of the bloc's five-point consensus. He stated that this point has been consistently violated by the military junta.

Andrews urged UN member states to make clear, unequivocal statements against these elections and not to send observers. He stated that sending observers would only support military junta efforts to build a sense of legitimacy around the election.

Regional leaders at this week's ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur admitted there had been no substantial progress in implementing the five-point consensus and said they would not send observers to monitor the military junta election.

UN Special Envoy Warns of Deepening Crisis in Myanmar, Questions Legitimacy of Planned Elections

The United Nations Special Envoy on Myanmar, Ms Julie Bishop, has called for an international refocus on Myanmar as the country approaches the five-year mark since the military junta's illegal seizure of power, warning of a deeply disturbing pattern of indiscriminate attacks on civilians.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly Third Committee Interactive Dialogue on Myanmar on 28 October 2025, Special Envoy stated that the Secretary-General's report detailed how the people within Myanmar and along its borders were still suffering from unspeakable hardship.

Ms Bishop reported that she had visited Myanmar on three occasions and met again last month with military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, who she said was buoyed by his perception of waning international condemnation, an increasing number of engagements with global leaders and invitations for official and unofficial visits from some member states.

The Special Envoy noted that Myanmar's vulnerability to natural disasters was accentuating its political instability, yet all sides remained bent on pursuing a military solution. She stated that with ongoing restrictions for humanitarian access, human suffering was at alarming levels.

Special Envoy highlighted that the surge in aerial bombardments and civilian casualties was also occurring in regions most severely impacted by recent earthquakes. She cited the aerial attack during the Buddhist Festival of Light in Sagaing, which killed and injured dozens including children, as one among many civilian atrocities. The Special Envoy emphasized that the cycle of impunity demanded accountability as a prerequisite for any sustainable reconciliation.

Regarding the military junta's planned elections, Special Envoy warned that the military junta's expectation of territorial gains during the electoral process underscored the risk of deepening violence and instability as others vowed fierce resistance. She stated that those who supported these elections should consider potential consequences, emphasizing that no elections should risk human lives.

Special Envoy highlighted that Rakhine State remained a flashpoint, with ongoing conflict deepening intercommunal tensions in one of Myanmar's poorest yet most strategic regions. She stated that protection of all communities as well as addressing the root causes of the Rohingya crisis were essential to any inclusive political solution. The Special Envoy noted that nearly half of Myanmar's young people wanted to leave their country, and that the surge in drug manufacture and trafficking, arms trafficking, cybercrime and the proliferation of criminal networks already impacted the wider region.

Special Envoy concluded that the people of Myanmar deserved sustained attention, unified resolve and commitment to peace, justice and human dignity, pledging to promote a Myanmar-led, sustainable and inclusive political solution.

ASEAN Leaders Emphasize that the Cessation of Violence and Inclusive Political Dialogue Must Precede Elections

On 26 October, ASEAN leaders issued a statement on Myanmar at the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, expressing deep concern over the conflicts and the dire humanitarian situation in the country as well as the lack of substantive progress in the implementation of the Five Point Consensus (5PC).

ASEAN leaders reiterated that the 5PC remained the main reference to address the political crisis in Myanmar, stating that it should be implemented in its entirety to help the people of Myanmar achieve an inclusive and durable peaceful resolution that is Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led.

The leaders urged all parties concerned in particular the armed forces and security forces concerned to immediately cease acts of violence against civilians and public facilities, calling for concrete action to halt indiscriminate violence, denounce any escalation, exercise utmost restraint and ensure the protection and safety of all civilians.

ASEAN leaders underscored the importance of free, fair, peaceful, transparent, inclusive, and credible general elections, and emphasized that the cessation of violence and inclusive political dialogue must precede elections.

ASEAN reaffirmed its continued support for the work of the ASEAN Chair, including through the Special Envoy, in the full and effective implementation of the Five-Point Consensus with the objective of restoring peace, stability and democracy through a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led political solution.

The leaders also committed to enhancing cooperation among ASEAN Member States and between ASEAN and its external partners, neighbouring countries of Myanmar and the United Nations to address the crisis and its wider impacts, including transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and online scams.

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Date: 31 October 2025

Permanent Mission of Myanmar, New York