Human rights violations in Burma are widespread and systematic. There are more long-standing political prisoners behind bars than at any other time since the mass pro-democracy uprising in 1988. Among those 2,200 imprisoned are students, trade unionists, and the most senior opposition leaders.
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There are laws that criminalise peaceful expression of political dissent. People are frequently arrested without warrant and held incommunicado. Judicial proceedings against political detainees fall short of international standards for fair trial and torture is common, especially during interrogation.
Despite this, ordinary Burmese people continue to call for democracy. In 2007, mass anti-government protests swept through Burma. However, the uprising was brought to an end in a violent crackdown by the military junta with some activists receiving 65 year jail terms after grossly unfair trials.
Aung San Suu Kyi released
Aung San Suu Kyi's release is great news but there are still 2,200 political prisoners, including prisoners of conscience, currently being held in deplorable conditions for simply exercising their right to peaceful protest.
Take action now!
Burma's ruling junta (military government) control everything the people watch, read and hear, and brutally repress even peaceful protests. Why not run a campaign on your campus. Get in touch with your students’ union to ask whether they are supporting this campaign.
Download Amnesty International’s campaign pack.