Published on February 21, 2023
- Political Development
- On February 17, 2023, the National Unity Government (NUG) urged the United States to impose more targeted sanctions against the military junta and increase funding for pro-democracy resistance forces.
- On February 15, 2023, Myanmar’s junta-controlled supreme court rejected former State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s appeal for two corruption charges against her. The appeal failed despite the efforts of her lawyers and testimony.
- As of February 15, 2023, four political parties including the USDP, FPD, MPD, and UDP have re-registered for the upcoming elections. Other parties close to the junta are also expected to re-registered to contest in the election.
- Situation on the Ground
- As of February 20, 2023, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) reported that 3,018 individuals have been killed. AAPP also reported that 19,768 individuals have been arrested and 15,911 individuals are still detained by the Burmese military since the coup.
- UN estimated that more than 1.25 million people have been internally displaced since the coup.
- Junta and its forces have burned down more than 55,000 homes across Burma in the two years since the coup. The majority of these attacks were in Sagaing Region.
- Leaked junta documents revealed that pro-junta civilians will be allowed to carry firearms.
- Since the coup, illegal mining operations have increased in Kachin State with residents reporting the expansion of these operations in different villages.
- International Response
- On February 20, 2023, the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals and seven entities involved in arms dealing, jet fuel provision, and repression of civilians.
- On February 17, 2023, an Australian Senator, criticized the Australian government for co-hosting a forum in March with ASEAN where junta representatives are expected to participate. Michelle Chan, the forum representative, stated that it was not Australia’s position to decide who attends.
- On February 15, 2023, the US State Department expressed concern for Russia’s continued nuclear cooperation with the junta, following an agreement for cooperation between the two parties on February 06.
- On February 15, 2023, the US announced that it will provide an additional $50 million in humanitarian assistance for Burma. The USAID is leading the initiative and will cooperate with the UNWFP to provide emergency food and nutrition assistance.