Project Syndicate: ASEAN and the Rohingya Crisis

Muslim Rohingya communities lack citizen rights in Myanmar and are under military attack as well. “The United Nations considers the stateless Rohingya to be among the world’s most persecuted minorities,” writes Syed Munir Khasru for Project Syndicate. “Now, other countries in an otherwise stable region are becoming embroiled in the crisis; indeed, countries such as Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia are increasingly feeling the spillover effects, as Rohingya seek asylum within their borders.” Neighboring nations and the Association of South-East Asian Nations must move quickly to resolve the Rohingya crisis and prevent ethno-religious conflict and extremism from spreading in a region that is 60 percent Muslim, 18 percent Buddhist and 17 percent Christian. Munir Khasru urges ASEAN “to grow into a strong, politically accountable, European Union-style community,” noting that global leadership requires outspoken condemnation of human rights violations with full support and welcome for people who have long been persecuted. – YaleGlobal

Project Syndicate: ASEAN and the Rohingya Crisis

ASEAN loses credibility and risks spreading extremism unless it speaks out against ongoing persecution of the Rohingya people fleeing Myanmar
Syed Munir Khasru
Friday, February 10, 2017

Read the article.

Project Syndicate
Related Links: 

Rohingya Left Behind in Myanmar's Power Transition

War of Words: What's in the Name “Rohingya”?

© 1995 – 2017 Project Syndicate

Comments

Hans on February 9, 2017:

The innocent Rohingya are being punished by intolerant Burmese regime. ASEAN is using the non-interference excuse as usual and the crisis continues.

David Fieldman on February 12, 2017:

This horrific situation will continue unabated until members of the ASEAN community speak out. But they afraid to do so for upsetting the muscular and fearful military junta in Myanmar. ASEAN is useless in the face of conflict, since despite their connection, it's each one for himself. Their typical non-interference stance is appalling. They continue to sit on their collective backsides wringing their hands and offering faint gasps as the killing and rapes continue. SHAME on the craven leaders and citizens of these dictatorships.