On this International Day of Peace, the voices of the people of Myanmar echo louder than ever, crying out for an end to the brutal and genocidal military dictatorship that has plagued our nation for far too long. The people of Myanmar have thirsted for peace for generations, paying a heavy toll in our relentless pursuit of a better future. It is time for the world to recognize that the only path to true and lasting peace in Myanmar, and for the broader region, is the establishment of an inclusive federal democracy that respects, promotes, and protects the rights of all, regardless of race, religion, gender, culture, background, or ethnicity.

Myanmar’s history is marred by a cycle of conflict and oppression that has left deep scars on our land and people. The struggle for peace has been a constant companion for many in Myanmar, and our nation’s rich tapestry of cultures and ethnicities has often been overshadowed by conflict. The hope for a peaceful and prosperous Myanmar, where all citizens can live free from fear and persecution, has been a dream deferred for too long.

The current nationwide revolution in Myanmar is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our people, who have risen against all odds to demand an end to tyranny. The sacrifices made by our citizens, including the loss of countless lives, are a stark reminder of the steep price we have paid for peace. However, this time, our pursuit of peace is different. It is not just about ending violence; it is about establishing a system that ensures lasting peace, self-determination, justice, and equality for all.

The establishment of an inclusive federal democracy is the cornerstone of our vision for peace. It recognizes the diversity of our nation and grants each ethnic group the autonomy to govern its own affairs within the Federal Democratic Union of Myanmar. In such a system, the rights and identities of all are protected, and power is decentralized to ensure that never again can a single entity perpetuate oppression. It is a model that has the potential to end the cycles of violence that have plagued our history.

For too long, Myanmar has been synonymous with conflict, suffering, and human rights abuses. Our pursuit of peace is not solely for our own benefit; it is a mission to create a better world. The consequences of Myanmar’s conflicts reverberate throughout the region, with countless refugees seeking safety in neighboring countries, international crimes such as drugs and human trafficking crossing international borders. The establishment of peace in Myanmar would have a ripple effect, fostering stability and prosperity throughout Southeast Asia.

The International Day of Peace is a stark reminder that the quest for peace is not unique to Myanmar. It is a universal aspiration shared by all people, regardless of nationality or background. Our struggle is a microcosm of the larger global endeavor to create a world where peace prevails. By supporting Myanmar’s journey toward peace and federal democracy, the international community can contribute to a more peaceful world.

As we celebrate this day, we urge the international community to stand with the people of Myanmar in our pursuit of peace. This means holding the genocidal military junta accountable for its crimes against humanity and actively supporting the National Unity Government (NUG), which represents the legitimate aspirations of our people. It means imposing targeted sanctions, cutting off financial support for the military, and providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the ongoing violence.

The people of Myanmar have paid a heavy cost for peace for far too long. We have borne the brunt of a brutal military dictator’s oppression, and we have sacrificed lives and livelihoods in our quest for justice and federal democracy. On this International Day of Peace, we call upon the international community to recognize our struggle, to support our vision for an inclusive federal democracy, and to join us in the pursuit of a brighter future not just for Myanmar, but for the entire region and indeed, for the world. Together, we can make this world a better place for all, where peace reigns supreme, and the rights of every individual are respected and protected.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Sasa

Union Minister
Ministry of International Cooperation 
The National Unity Government 
Republic of the Union of Myanmar