Editorial

Freedom for Burma

Burma is one of the outstanding examples of the many repressive regimes in the world. An independence movement led by Aung San, after the Second World War negotiated a settlement with the British ruling government. After an election which brought a democratically elected party to power, Aung San was assassinated. A moderate government tried to prevent civil disorder for ten years, then a ruthless revolutionary government was set up led by Ne Win. In 1988, as Ne Win prepared to leave government, there was an uprising in which 10,000 people were killed. A military council took power – and despite many protests – remains today.

One of the protesters was Aung San Suu Kyi, the daughter of Aung San. She was under house arrest from 1988 to 1995, when she led the National League for Democracy in a victorious election. The rulers refused to acknowledge the election, held on to power and threatened a 20-year prison sentence for anyone calling for democracy. Aung San Suu Kyi has remained a beacon of democratic opposition to repression around the world.

The military rule is bolstered by trade from the Western World. A billion oil and gas pipeline is in preparation by the French and Americans. Britain is exploring the possibility of offshore oil, among other projects. The Human Rights Watch Report state that ‘We are appalled that the British Government should consider trade with the regime at this crucial time.’ Amnesty international has given evidence of ‘widespread illegal imprisonment and torture.’

Three humanist principles are appropriate to our reaction to what is happening in Burma. First, our opinion that all governments should be democratically elected. Second, that violation of human rights should be robustly opposed. Thirdly, that we are one human global population and we show our concern about what is happening around the world. We salute Suu Kyi, and hope that all efforts will be made to oppose the current Burmese regime.