India, China, Russia abstain on 1st UNSC resolution on Myanmar

The U.N. Security Council has adopted its first ever resolution on Myanmar in 74 years to demand an end to violence and urge the military junta to release all political prisoners, including ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Ms. Kyi, 77, has been a prisoner since the army toppled her government almost two years ago and violently cracked down on dissent. The 15-member council has long been split on how to deal with the Myanmar crisis with China and Russia arguing against strong action. They both abstained from the vote on Wednesday, along with India. The remaining 12 members voted in favor. 

Today, Security Council adopts the first resolution on #Myanmar, which calls for an immediate cessation of violence and de-escalation, release of all arbitrarily detained prisoners, respect for human rights and close cooperation between the @ASEAN and @UN Special Envoys. pic.twitter.com/XgbOu40CQE

— UN Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (@UNDPPA) December 21, 2022

Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward said after the vote on the British-drafted resolution. "We've also sent a clear message to the people of Myanmar that we seek progress in line with their rights, their wishes and their interests," Woodward told the 15-member council. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed the resolution's adoption. "This is an important step by the Security Council to address the crisis and end the Burma military regime's escalating repression and violence against civilians," he said in a statement.

The only other resolution adopted by the Security Council was in 1948, when the body recommended the UN General Assembly admit Myanmar - then Burma - as a member of the world body. Myanmar's UN Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who still holds the UN seat and represents Suu Kyi's government, said while there were positive elements in the resolution the National Unity Government - comprised of remnants of the ousted administration - would have preferred a stronger text.