Civil Society slams Association Bill for restricting basic rights
Published on Tuesday, 06 August 2013 11:48
Dozens of civil society organisations demand a redraft Association Bill and called for the parliament to suspend the discussion and approval of the existing bill.
A collective statement from over 50 civil society organisations claimed that the draft bill released on July 27 "is not only against civil and political rights of the citizens, including in the existing constitution, but also a restriction to Civil Society Organisations contributing to nation building and development."
The statement also said all activities of civil society organisations will become illegal after the law has been enacted. While experts from international organisations have called for greater involvement of civil society organisations in nation building to prevent backtracking on reforms, many organisations still face multiple restrictions.
"The role of civil society organisations is crucial in education, health, and poverty alleviation activities that are related to nation building. These important organisations will become illegal organisations when the law is enacted. Myanmar's democracy will only be successful when the bill protects civil society organisations who are working for nation building and the basic rights of citizens," said an official from the Local Resource Centre.
The statement also warned that negative consequences may take place if the law is drafted without consulting civil society organisations.
Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/08/06/civil-society-slams-association-bill-for-restricting-basic-rights/
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