Socialist International condemns actions of the military régime in Burma against Aung San Suu Kyi and the democratic opposition

3 June 2003

The Socialist International strongly condemns the latest actions by the military régime in Burma against Aung San Suu Kyi, the National League for Democracy and other members of the democratic opposition, and rejects all attempts by the régime to undermine efforts toward a democratic opening in Burma.

The International demands that the régime immediately release Aung San Suu Kyi and the more than one hundred members of the National League for Democracy believed to be held in detention or under house arrest, and that political party offices and universities closed following the arrests be allowed to reopen.

The International further calls for a full and independent investigation into the attacks by the police and the military against members of the democratic opposition in recent days that reportedly resulted in the killings of numerous people and injuries to many others.

The International reiterates its full support for international efforts in defence of the democratic rights and aspirations of the Burmese people, especially by the United Nations, and calls on the international community, including ASEAN, to apply strong pressure on the régime until it respects the rights of freedom of expression, association and assembly and engages the democratic opposition in a formal and substantive dialogue leading to real political change.

The Socialist International, which has long supported the fight for democracy and human rights in Burma, led with such courage and determination by Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy, again reaffirms its complete solidarity with their continuing struggle.