Senate Passes Cardin, Young Resolution Condemning Military Coup in Burma

Statement

U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.), both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, welcomed Senate approval today of their resolution (S. Res. 35) condemning the military coup that took place February 1, 2021 in Burma. Introduced days after the military takeover, the senators renewed their call for "those elected to serve in parliament to resume their duties without impediment." Cardin and Young have also called for sanctions against senior Burmese military leaders for gross human rights violations.

"The Burmese military's coup d'état has been devastating for the Burmese people. For the last year, the military has stalled the democratic process in that country and been responsible for mass atrocities, including imprisoning over 11,000 and killing more than 1,400 civilians, including children," said Senator Cardin. "The United States Senate stands fully behind the Burmese people and their right to choose their own leaders. We remain committed to a peaceful transition of power back to the civilian government and holding those responsible for the coup and human rights violations accountable for their actions."

"Indiana is home to one of the largest communities of Burmese refugees in the U.S. It has been heartbreaking to sit with these valued members of our community and hear how their families had their hopes and dreams for the future disrupted 12 months ago by the military coup in Burma. Burma has made great strides toward self-government and I know this coup is a setback, but it will not be the end of the story. Today's bipartisan resolution expresses solidarity with the Burmese people's aspirations to rule themselves rather than be ruled by force. I am proud to stand with the people of Burma both now in this time of crisis and in the future," said Senator Young.

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