Rohingya crisis: Australia must cut ties with Myanmar Army

“While a campaign of ethnic cleansing is being committed against the Rohingya people, the Australian Government must suspend all forms of support to Myanmar’s military,” Amnesty International Australia’s Campaigns Manager Michael Hayworth said.

“Amnesty International is calling on governments with military relationships with the Myanmar Army to use these relationships to press the army to stop the violations; and those providing training to the military to immediately suspend co-operation. This includes Australia.

“The Australian government must also end its hypocritical ‘cash for return’ policy for Rohingya people on Manus Island and Nauru. Offering Rohingyas money to return to a country where there is a current campaign of ethnic cleansing against them is unconscionable.

“We welcome the $15 million increase of aid funds by the Australian Government to help Rohingya people fleeing this violence and continue to caution that this crisis is likely to require further ongoing assistance.”