New York, The military junta in Myanmar is posing an increased threat to civilian populations through the implementation of mandatory military service, as indicated by a United Nations expert. Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, emphasized the junta’s growing desperation and danger, urging for intensified international efforts to safeguard vulnerable groups.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Andrews highlighted the dire situation resulting from the junta’s decision to enforce the 2010 People’s Military Service Law, compelling young men and women into military ranks amidst escalating conflicts across the country. This move comes as the junta faces significant troop losses and recruitment challenges, responding by intensifying attacks on civilians with an array of powerful weaponry.

The junta’s recent order mandates conscription for citizen men aged 18 to 35 and women aged 18 to 27, with professionals eligible up to ages 45 and 35, respectively. Evading military service could result in up to five years of imprisonment. The spokesperson for the junta announced plans to draft 5,000 individuals monthly starting April, a measure that Andrews warns could lead to widespread forced recruitment and abuse of civilian populations.

Amidst reports of young men being abducted from city streets for military service and villagers being used as human shields, the Special Rapporteur expressed concern over the impact on Myanmar’s youth and the potential surge in individuals fleeing the country to avoid conscription. He also criticized the Security Council’s inaction and called on states to collaborate on reducing the junta’s access to weapons and financing, thereby weakening its capacity to harm civilians.

Furthermore, Andrews appealed for a significant increase in humanitarian aid to communities affected by the conflict, advocating for support towards Myanmar’s democratic transition process that prioritizes human rights, transparency, and accountability. He underscored the urgency for international action to isolate the junta and protect the people of Myanmar from its oppressive regime.