As conflict naturally breeds violence, we recognize the importance of address...

As conflict naturally breeds violence, we recognize the importance of addressing the reported problems of sexual violence that may occur in conflicts. However, incidents committed by unruly individuals cannot be construed as the policy of a given institution. The most important point is to refuse to condone any act of sexual violence. In Myanmar, all criminal cases filed with authorities were properly investigated and the perpetrators were punished according to the law. There have been a number of cases where military personnel have been prosecuted for committing acts of sexual violence. The accusations that have been made in some quarters suggesting that the State Constitution grants immunity from prosecution to military personnel who commit criminal offences are therefore totally groundless and appear to be politically motivated. With the reformist Government now paying greater attention to promoting democratic values than ever before, members of the armed forces have been clearly instructed not to commit any crimes, including those of sexual violence. A series of capacity-building workshops has been held to educate them on human rights, and the curriculums in military training schools also include instruction on the laws relating to the prevention of sexual violence.