U.S.: Myanmar Rape Reports Appalling

Originally published by The Associated Press, July 5, 2002

WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department said Friday it was appalled by reports that Myanmar military forces are raping girls and women in an ethnic rebel stronghold near the Thai border.

Spokeswoman Lynn Cassel said U.S. concerns have been raised with officials in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. She said the administration is calling on the officials to investigate all such allegations.

She said the problem reportedly is concentrated in Shan state, where recent fighting has forced the evacuation of a number of Thai villagers.

"We condemn the pervasive use of rape or other forms of sexual violence by military forces against a vulnerable population," Cassel said.

Two human rights groups in Shan reported that there have been 173 cases of rape and other forms of sexual violence against girls and women by Myanmar troops.

As for the overall political situation in Myanmar, Cassel said that while the United States welcomes the recent release from house arrest of democratic political leader Aung San Suu Kyi, "we remain mindful that well over 1,000 political prisoners remain in jail.

"Much more needs to be done to move toward democracy and national reconciliation in Myanmar," she said.