By Christian Solidarity Worldwide |
March 23, 2013
Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is deeply concerned about a
dramatic increase in religious intolerance in Burma, illustrated most
dramatically in the recent crisis in the central Burmese town of
Meiktilar. CSW calls on the Burmese government to take decisive action
to secure the safety of citizens in Meiktilar, where a state of
emergency has been declared following three days of sectarian violence
that has resulted in at least 20 deaths.
On 20 March a dispute between a Muslim shop owner and his Buddhist
clients escalated, resulting in the destruction of Muslim homes,
businesses and mosques by Buddhist mobs. Local police failed to stem the
violence. Hundreds of Muslim residents have reportedly fled their homes
to seek shelter in a sports stadium.
According to Reuters, martial law has been imposed in four townships
amid concerns of the violence spreading. An estimated 2,000 people are
in refugee
camps.
The targeting of the Muslim population in Meiktilar is reminiscent of
the situation in Arakan State, where clashes between Buddhist Rakhine
and Muslim Rohingya erupted in June last year, leaving at least 140,000
displaced and hundreds dead. Although violence was been committed by
both sides, the Rohingyas have been subjected to a systematic campaign
of persecution and ethnic cleansing.
Anti-Muslim propaganda leaflets have reportedly been circulated in
several parts of Burma in recent days, leading to fears that anti-Muslim
violence could spread.
CSW’s Advocacy Director Andrew Johnston said, “We are gravely
concerned about the situation in Meiktilar and the climate of
intolerance and violence that appears to be being created by hate speech
and anti-Muslim propaganda. We urge the Burmese government, as well as
leaders of different religious communities and political groups, to work
together to promote inter-religious harmony, respect for religious
freedom, and to combat religious hatred, discrimination and violence.
Burma’s reform process is at risk, and people of all religions who
believe in peace, democracy and human rights must unite to prevent any
further deterioration in the situation. We call on the Burmese security
forces to restore public order according to the rule of law, and to
ensure protection for all people regardless of religion.”
For further information or to arrange interviews please
contact Kiri Kankhwende, Press Officer at Christian Solidarity Worldwide
on +44 (0)20 8329 0045 / +44 (0) 78 2332 9663, email kiri@csw.org.uk or visit www.csw.org.uk.
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