United Nations Radio

Five UN experts have strongly condemned severe convictions and the unfair trials of prisoners of conscience in Myanmar.

Following one year of arbitrary detention, dozens of individuals who had been arrested in connection with peaceful demonstrations in Myanmar last year, are now being tried by the courts.

The UN experts strongly urge the Myanmar authorities to cease harassing and arresting individuals for peacefully exercising their internationally-recognized human rights.

They further demand that all detainees be retried in open hearings, respecting fair trial standards and the immediate release of defence counsels.

The experts reiterate previous calls to initiate reforms for a transition to a multiparty democratic and civil government, as envisaged by the new Constitution.

The closed-door hearings are being held inside prisons by courts which lack independence and impartiality.

Moe than 20 detainees, including five monks, were recently sentenced to up to 24 years imprisonment.

Three defence lawyers have also been sentenced to several months in prison for contempt of court after they transmitted their clients’ complaints of unfair trials.

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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