The Asean Stance on Human Rights Violations in Myanmar after the Kudeta

Abstract

The political and humanitarian crisis engulfing Myanmar following the February 2021 military coup has drawn global attention. This article presents a discussion on human rights and ASEAN's approach to the crisis. Since the coup, Myanmar has witnessed a popular uprising against the military regime, with thousands of casualties and widespread human rights violations. ASEAN, meanwhile, is faced with the dilemma between the principle of non-intervention and the protection of human rights. However, ASEAN has maintained a dialogic approach in dealing with the crisis, reflecting its long-held "ASEAN Way". As such, this article highlights how ASEAN deals with humanitarian challenges and how this unique approach sets it apart from Western countries that are more inclined to engage directly.