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Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh

September 28, 2024

How Bangladesh, Myanmar and Thailand are challenging authoritarian rule

Political shifts across Asia show the struggles of democratic movements – and why backing despots is not always a safe bet

Others

September 20, 2024

Peter Bouckaert Joins Fortify Rights as Senior Director

Bouckaert brings decades of experience in human rights in armed conflicts

Myanmar

September 11, 2024

Film

Rohingya Survivors Recount Arakan Army Massacre

Myanmar

August 27, 2024

International Criminal Court: Investigate Arakan Army Massacre of Rohingya Civilians, Hold Perpetrators Accountable

Survivors recount armed group’s mass killings of Rohingya civilians, including children, in Maungdaw

Ukraine

August 21, 2024

News Release

Ukraine: Parliament Votes to Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court

Parliamentary vote advances accountability efforts to address Russian aggression and committed crimes in Ukraine

Bangladesh

August 19, 2024

Letter

Joint Letter: Requesting Urgent Action towards UN Human Rights Monitoring and Investigation in Bangladesh

Recent events have placed Bangladesh at a critical juncture. Given the current precarity of the situation, the UN Human Rights Council should urgently support the establishment of an independent international justice and accountability mechanism to investigate recent rights violations during protests.

Myanmar

August 19, 2024

Film

မြန်မာစစ်ကောင်စီမှ ရိုဟင်ဂျာများအား တရားမဝင်အတင်းအကျပ် စစ်မှုထမ်းစေခြင်း

Thailand

August 16, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Reform Constitution, Uphold Democratic Principles

Thai Parliament to vote for a new Prime Minister today

Ukraine

August 15, 2024

News Release

Ukraine: Ratify Rome Statute, Ensure Accountability for Atrocity Crimes

Parliamentarians set to vote on ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court

Thailand

August 06, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Uphold Democratic Principles, Prevent the Dissolution of the Move Forward Party

Constitutional Court to decide on reformist party’s fate tomorrow

Myanmar

August 02, 2024

Film

Myanmar Junta Forcibly Conscripts Abducted Rohingya Refugees

Myanmar, Bangladesh

July 26, 2024

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: End Abduction, Forced Conscription of Rohingya Civilians

New investigation finds Myanmar junta forcibly conscripting abducted Rohingya refugees

Myanmar

July 15, 2024

Joint Statement by 240 Myanmar and International Organizations Call for Coordinated Sanctions on the Myanma Economic Bank and Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise

Thailand

July 12, 2024

Film

ผู้แทนพิเศษ U.N. ชี้แจงกรณีธนาคารไทยมีส่วนช่วยให้เมียนมาทำธุรกรรมซื้ออาวุธ

Thailand

July 12, 2024

Film

U.N. Rights Expert Testifies at Thai Parliament on Myanmar Military Procurement

July 11, 2024

Film

Secretly Recorded Videos Expose Myanmar Junta’s Torture of Detainees

Myanmar

July 11, 2024

News Release

ICC Member States: Coordinate to Protect Witnesses with Evidence of Atrocities, Refer Myanmar to Chief Prosecutor

Secretly recorded videos expose Myanmar junta’s torture of detainees

Thailand

July 06, 2024

Commentary

As Thailand marks historic Pride month, companies fall short on LGBTQ inclusion

Businesses voice support for LGBTQ rights only to later backtrack on their inclusivity commitments, a practice known as ‘rainbow washing’

Thailand

June 28, 2024

Homecoming Gathering for Young Changemakers

On June 28-30, 2024, The Fort hosted a meeting organized by Changemaker X Change (CXC).

Thailand

June 25, 2024

Film

[THA] Thailand Legalizes the Right to Marriage for LGBTI+ Couples

Thailand

June 25, 2024

Film

Thailand Legalizes the Right to Marriage for LGBTI+ Couples

Myanmar

June 20, 2024

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Civilian Killings in Karenni State, Hold Perpetrators Accountable

Myanmar’s National Unity Government and Karenni State Government should investigate killings and cooperate with international justice mechanisms

Thailand

June 19, 2024

Letter

Joint Letter: Re: Request to Bring an End to the Abuse of the Judicial Process and Arbitrary Detention of Human Rights Defenders, Activists and Protesters, and to Investigate the Death in Custody of Netiporn ‘Bung’ Sanesangkhom  

We, the undersigned organizations, write this open letter to request you take urgent and immediate steps to end the ongoing abuse of the judicial process and apparent arbitrary detention of human rights defenders, activists and protesters in Thailand, solely because of their exercise of their right to peaceful protest.

Thailand

June 18, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Thailand Legalizes the Right to Marriage for LGBTI+ Couples

Thailand becomes the first Southeast Asian nation to guarantee equal rights to marriage

Ukraine

June 14, 2024

News Release

U.N. Member States: Support the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland, Ensure Accountability

World leaders gather in Switzerland on June 15 and 16 for peace talks on Ukraine

Myanmar

June 05, 2024

News Release

India: Free Mohammad Arfat, End Indefinite Detentions of Refugees

Fortify Rights files complaint with U.N. body on arbitrary detention

Thailand

May 30, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Expedite Passage of Marriage Equality Bill, Ensure Rights for LGBTI+ Persons

Thailand’s Senate to hold ad-hoc session to vote on marriage equality bill

Thailand

May 29, 2024

Meeting on Thailand’s National Screening Mechanism and Immigration Bail Policy

On May 29, 2024, The Fort hosted a meeting organized by the Center for Asylum Protection (CAP) to discuss Thailand’s National Screening Mechanism and current bail policies for refugees. About 15 participants representing five organizations attended the meeting.

Myanmar

May 28, 2024

Film

“My Tears Could Make a Sea”: Study Launch and Panel Discussion

Myanmar

May 21, 2024

Podcast

The Forecast Ep #3 – Forecasting Human Rights Concerns in Myanmar’s Rakhine State

Thailand

May 17, 2024

Film

Thailand: Prevent Forced Returns of Myanmar Refugees, Provide Legal Status

Thailand

May 17, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Forced Returns of Myanmar Refugees, Provide Legal Status

Fortify Rights witnesses Thai soldiers push back hundreds of Myanmar refugees

Thailand

May 16, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Uphold Aquittal of Human Rights Defenders

Controversial poultry company appeals acquittal of women human rights defenders

Bangladesh

April 26, 2024

News Release

Bangladesh: End Pushbacks of Rohingya Refugees, Investigate Beatings 

Bangladesh authorities beat and forcibly returned Rohingya fleeing atrocities in Myanmar

Myanmar

April 24, 2024

News Release

New Study Finds Mental Harm Inflicted on Myanmar’s Rohingya a Form of Genocide

Findings reveal “severe mental harm,” the “least-understood” act of genocide

Myanmar

April 24, 2024

Report

My Tears Could Make a Sea

The Infliction of Mental Harm as Genocide Against Rohingya

Ukraine

April 18, 2024

News Release

U.N. Member States: Support the Establishment of ad hoc Criminal Tribunal to Prosecute Russian Crime of Aggression

Missile attack on residential area reportedly kills 18 civilians, injures more than 70

Ukraine

April 18, 2024

Film

Russian Missile Attacks on Chernihiv Civilians in Ukraine

Myanmar

April 11, 2024

Commentary

Myanmar’s Rohingya: From Genocide to Forced Conscription

April 11, 2024

Podcast

The Forecast Ep #2: Forecasting Marriage Equality in Thailand

Myanmar

April 04, 2024

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Mass Internment of Muslims and Other Atrocities in Myanmar to ICC

Mass arbitrary detention, life-threatening restrictions in Rakhine State

Others

March 26, 2024

Film

งานสัมมนาประเด็นเมียนมาครั้งประวัติศาสตร์ ที่รัฐสภาไทย

Myanmar

March 26, 2024

Strengthening

Myanmar Women Youth Human Rights Defenders Trained in Human Rights Documentation and Advocacy

Fortify Rights conducted a three-day participatory training on human rights documentation and advocacy for eight young women human rights defenders from Kachin State, Myanmar.

Thailand

March 26, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Ensure Equal Access to Marriage and Other Rights to LGBTI+ Persons

Thailand’s House of Representatives to commence final reading of draft legislation to amend the Civil and Commercial Code

Others

March 25, 2024

Film

Historic Event in Thai Parliament on Myanmar Crisis

Myanmar

March 25, 2024

Film

Historic Event in Thai Parliament on Myanmar Crisis

Thailand

March 20, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Dissolution of Poll-Winning Move Forward Party

Election regulators seek to dissolve reformist political party

Myanmar

March 15, 2024

Letter

Joint Letter: 109 Organizations Call for Extension and Redesignation of Temporary Protected Status for Burma

We are writing today to urge the administration to extend and redesignate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma. Over 100 organizations have endorsed the request to Secretary Mayorkas, (1) to provide an 18-month extension for current TPS holders from Burma, (2) to expand the protections to more recently arrived Burmese individuals present in the United States by redesignating Burma for TPS, (3) to provide a 180 day registration period for beneficiaries under the redesignation and the current designation’s extension, and (4) a timely publication of the Federal Register to avoid employment disruptions and other hardships that result from any delays, and (5) to provide educational resources and public engagements for the impacted community.

Others

March 08, 2024

Profile

Building a Better Future for Rohingya Refugees in Canada

by Zaw Win

Myanmar

March 01, 2024

Podcast

The Forecast Ep #1: Forecasting Accountability in Myanmar

Bangladesh

February 27, 2024

Strengthening

Photographs by Fortify Rights Rohingya Media Fellows Featured World Conference on Statelessness 

Fortify Rights exhibited selected photographs from the A Chance to Breathe photography book by Fortify Rights Rohingya media fellows during the World Stateless Conference 2024 in Kuala Lumpur.

Ukraine

February 24, 2024

Film

Two Years of Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion of Ukraine

Myanmar

February 19, 2024

Film

ICC အဖွဲ့ဝင်နိုင်ငံများ – မြန်မာနိုင်ငံတွင် အရပ်သားများအပေါ် တိုက်ခိုက်မှုအား တာဝန်ခံယူမှုရှိစေရေး

Myanmar

February 13, 2024

Film

ICC Member States: Ensure Accountability for Attacks on Civilians in Myanmar

Myanmar

February 13, 2024

News Release

ICC Member States: Ensure Accountability for Attacks on Civilians in Myanmar

Civilians dead and injured from attack on Rohingya village, responsible battalions identified

Bangladesh

February 08, 2024

News Release

Bangladesh: Investigate Fleeing Myanmar Junta-Forces, Coordinate with International Criminal Court

Hundreds of Myanmar junta border guards have fled to Bangladesh

Bangladesh

February 01, 2024

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Publish Joint Statement on Anniversary of Myanmar Coup

The third anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar, 17 Rohingya refugee-led civil society organizations in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh published a joint statement in English and Burmese languages.

Myanmar

February 01, 2024

Film

မြန်မာအာဏာသိမ်းစစ်အုပ်စု နိုင်ငံတကာရာဇဝတ်ခုံရုံးမှာ တာဝန်ခံယူသင့်သည်

Myanmar

February 01, 2024

Film

Why the Myanmar Junta Must Be Held Accountable at the ICC

Myanmar

February 01, 2024

Letter

Open Letter: Urgent Call for Swift Action Against The Military Junta to End Its War of Terror and Protect Civilians in Myanmar

Re: Urgent call for swift action against the military junta to end its war of terror and protect civilians in Myanmar

Thailand

January 26, 2024

Film

ส.ส.ไทยยกรายงานสืบสวนของ Fortify Rights ถกในสภา

Thailand

January 26, 2024

Film

Thai MP Highlights Fortify Rights’s Investigation in Parliament

Thailand

January 18, 2024

News Release

Thailand: Ensure All Refugees Have Access to Screening Mechanism, Appeals Process

Thai authorities reject rights commission recommendations for new refugee-screening mechanism

Annual Report

January 01, 2024

Report

Annual Report 2023

Others

December 29, 2023

Film

10 Years of Fortifying Rights

Others

December 15, 2023

Letter

Laos: 11 Years of Government Inaction on Sombath Somphone’s Enforced Disappearance

On the 11-year anniversary of the enforced disappearance of Lao civil society leader Sombath Somphone, we, the undersigned civil society organizations and individuals, strongly condemn the Lao government’s continued failure to provide necessary information as to his fate and whereabouts and reiterate our calls to the authorities to deliver truth, justice and reparations to his family.

Bangladesh

December 15, 2023

Commentary

A Roadmap to Protect Refugees

By John Quinley in Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh

December 13, 2023

Strengthening

Rohingya Women Development Network Quoted in Associated Press Article

The Associated Press (AP) published an article, "I Feel Trapped: Scores of Underage Rohingya Girls Forced into Abusive Marriages in Malaysia," including quotes from the director of the Rohingya Women Development Network (RWDN) as well as a hyperlink to the organization's website.

Thailand

December 13, 2023

News Release, Letter

Thailand: Don’t Criminalize Refugees Seeking Protection

Groups Send Letter to Prime Minister

Thailand

December 12, 2023

Letter

Joint Letter to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin Re: Request to exempt National Screening Mechanism applicants from Prosecution under the Immigration Act

We, the undersigned, write to you today regarding the implementation of the National Screening Mechanism (NSM) for protected person status. Specifically, we request that you and your Cabinet use the power granted under Section 17 of the Immigration Act 1979 to exempt individuals applying for, or undergoing, NSM screening from arrest, detention, and prosecution under the Immigration Act.

Myanmar

December 04, 2023

News Release

ICC Member States: Refer Myanmar Junta’s Crimes to the Prosecutor

States gather for court’s annual Assembly of States Parties

Myanmar

December 04, 2023

Film

What is Article 14 of the Rome Statute, and Why is it Important for Myanmar?

Bangladesh

December 02, 2023

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Featured in BBC Documentary

The BBC featured Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh in a documentary entitled “Let Down by the U.N.”

Myanmar

November 30, 2023

News Release

German Federal Prosecutor Declines to Investigate Myanmar Atrocities, Fortify Rights Committed to Ending Impunity

German Federal Prosecutor dismisses criminal complaint against Myanmar generals for ongoing atrocity crimes

Myanmar

November 30, 2023

Statement

Statement: On the Dismissal of the Criminal Complaint Filed in Germany against Myanmar Generals and Others for Genocide, War Crimes, and Crimes Against Humanity

On October 11, 2023, the Federal Public Prosecutor informed Fortify Rights that it would not be initiating an investigation into the crimes alleged in the complaint. Fortify Rights respects the Federal Public Prosecutor’s decision but also underscores the urgent need for greater accountability for ongoing genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in Myanmar.

Thailand

November 24, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Thai Cabinet Approves Marriage Equality Bill

Government’s push for equal marriage renews hopes for LGBTI+ rights

Bangladesh

November 09, 2023

Report

Universal Periodic Review: Bangladesh’s Record on Refugee Rights, 2018-2023

This "shadow report" documents how Rohingya militants have killed and abducted refugees with impunity, how Bangladesh authorities have arbitrarily detained, tortured, and extorted Rohingya, and how Bangladesh continues to violate Rohingya rights to freedom of movement.

Bangladesh

November 09, 2023

News Release

Bangladesh: Halt Plans to Return Rohingya to Myanmar, Continue to Support Justice Initiatives

U.N. to review Bangladesh’s human rights record on November 13

Myanmar

November 03, 2023

Film

The Myanmar Junta Conducts Air Strikes in Laiza, Kachin State

Thailand

October 26, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Ensure Healthcare for Myanmar Refugees

Myanmar refugees seeking healthcare face arrest, extortion

Thailand

October 15, 2023

Statement

Joint Civil Society Statement Concerning Thailand’s Fishing Sector at a Critical Crossroads

We the undersigned organisations, working to secure a legal, ethical and sustainable fishing industry for Thailand.

Myanmar

October 11, 2023

News Release

U.N. Member States: Coordinate a Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar

Junta attack on displaced civilians kills scores, including children

Thailand

October 07, 2023

Commentary

เปิดแผลจำเลย ในคดีฟ้อง ‘ปิดปาก’ นักสิทธิมนุษยชน

October 06, 2023

Profile

How a Rohingya Advocate in Chicago Helps Refugees Preserve Identity 

By Zaw Win 

Myanmar

September 25, 2023

Film

Myanmar Human Rights Defenders Testify Before the U.S. Congress

Thailand

September 25, 2023

Commentary

Thailand’s New Government is Failing the LGBTQ Community

By Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn in The Diplomat

Bangladesh

September 22, 2023

Strengthening

This Persecution is the Worst There is: Restrictions on Rohingya Freedom of Movement in Bangladesh Report Launch and Panel Discussion

On September 22, 2023, The Fort hosted an online report launch and panel discussion organized by the Rohingya-led Youth Congress Rohingya (YCR), for its first report: “This Persecution is the Worst There is”: Restrictions on Rohingya Freedom of Movement in Bangladesh.

Myanmar

September 13, 2023

News Release

U.S.: Increase Efforts to End Junta Atrocities in Myanmar, Ensure Accountability 

Survivors testify at U.S. congressional hearing on atrocities in Myanmar

Myanmar

September 13, 2023

Strengthening

Survivors Testify at U.S. Congressional Hearing on Atrocities in Myanmar

On September 13, 2023, Fortify Rights supported Lucky Karim, a Rohingya woman human rights defender, to speak before the U.S. Congress about her experiences facing atrocity crimes in Myanmar and her experience as a refugee in Bangladesh.

Thailand

August 29, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Safeguard Free Speech, Decriminalize Defamation

Bangkok Court acquits three women human rights defenders of criminal defamation

Bangladesh

August 26, 2023

Strengthening

Rohingya Human Rights Defender Quoted in Voice of America

On August 26, 2023, in an article published by Voice of America, Rohingya human rights defender and founder of the Rohingya Student Network Maung Sawyeddollah called on the international community to “to provide the Rohingya refugees with the necessary tools to rebuild our lives.” 

Thailand

August 25, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Defamation Case Against Three Women Human Rights Defenders

Bangkok South Criminal Court to deliver verdict on August 29, 2023

Thailand

August 25, 2023

Commentary

Thai Companies Should Not Be Able to Jail Their Critics

By Puttanee Kangkun in Nikkei Asia

Myanmar

August 24, 2023

Report

Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Reports on the ongoing Rohingya genocide published by Fortify Rights since 2014

Bangladesh

August 24, 2023

Strengthening

Photos by Rohingya Photgraphers Featured in Event in Thailand

On August 24 and 25, 2023, an event held in Mae Sot, Thailand featured photographs by award-winning Rohingya photographers Omal Khair, Dil Kayas, and Azimul Hasson. The exhibition included photos from their photography book “A Chance to Breathe.”

August 24, 2023

Film

“Not a Verified Citizen”: The Myanmar Junta’s Erasure of Rohingya Identity

Myanmar

August 24, 2023

News Release

Myanmar Junta: Comply with World Court Rulings, End Ongoing Genocide Against Rohingya

New animated short film reveals Myanmar junta’s erasure of Rohingya identity

Bangladesh

August 10, 2023

News Release

Bangladesh: Ensure Accountability for Police Corruption, Torture of Rohingya Refugees

Bangladesh police use torture to extort illegal payments from refugees

Thailand

August 07, 2023

Film

Everyday Rights: แพทย์ชายแดนให้ชีวิตใหม่แก่ผู้ลี้ภัย

Thailand

August 05, 2023

Film

Everyday Rights: ဒုက္ခသည်တွေကို ဘဝသစ်ပေးနေတဲ့ နယ်စပ်ဆေးမှူး

August 04, 2023

Film

The Border Medic Giving Refugees a New Life

Others

July 28, 2023

Film

India: End Crackdown and Indefinite Detention of Rohingya Refugees

Others

July 28, 2023

News Release

India: End Crackdown and Indefinite Detention of Rohingya Refugees 

Indian authorities summarily imprison Rohingya refugees for years

Others

July 18, 2023

Letter

Letter to Members of Congress on Global Voices of Freedom Act

We, the undersigned organizations, write to express our support for the Global Voices of Freedom Act (S.962)

Thailand

July 12, 2023

Strengthening

Thai Human Rights Defenders Trained on Monitoring Skills

On July 12, 2023, The Fort Director facilitated a training session on human rights monitoring for 21 students attending the “Human Rights Defenders School" organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Thailand.

Myanmar

July 12, 2023

Strengthening

Fortify Rights Facilitates Human Rights Documentation Training for Myanmar Lawyers

Between July 12 and 13, 2023, Fortify Rights facilitated a human rights documentation training for the lawyers from Myanmar working on environmental and human rights issues.

Thailand

July 03, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Reintroduce Marriage Equality Bill, Protect LGBTI+ Rights

New Parliament's first session opens today

Malaysia

June 29, 2023

News Release

Malaysia: Investigate and Hold Officials Accountable for Roles in Rohingya Human Trafficking Syndicate

Four Thais extradited, charged in Malaysia for crimes related to transnational trafficking syndicate

Thailand

June 22, 2023

Film

Bangkok Pride 2023: Thailand Must Pass the Marriage Equality Bill

Others

June 20, 2023

Letter

Letter to Barack Obama about Imprisoned Environmentalist & Former Obama Scholar Hoang Hong

Re: Arrest of Obama Foundation Scholar in Vietnam

ASEAN

May 17, 2023

News Release

ASEAN: Join and Support New Treaty to Combat Impunity for Mass Atrocities

Diplomatic negotiations underway this week for landmark treaty on investigating and prosecuting genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes

Thailand

May 11, 2023

Statement

Briefing Note: Protecting Human Rights Defenders from Judicial Harassment

Detailing the judicial harassment of human rights defenders in Thailand

Thailand

May 11, 2023

Statement

Briefing Note: Ensuring Marriage Equality in Thailand

Detailing the lack of marriage equality and discrimination against LGBTI+ people in Thailand

Thailand

May 11, 2023

Statement

Briefing Note: Ensuring Refugee Rights in Thailand

Detailing the ongoing arbitrary detention and forced return of refugees in Thailand

Thailand

May 11, 2023

Letter

Commit to Protect Rights of Refugees, LGBTI+ People, and Human Rights Defenders

Thai Political Parties: Commit to Protect Rights of Refugees, LGBTI+ People, and Human Rights Defenders

Thailand

May 11, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Commit to Protect Rights of Refugees, LGBTI+ People, and Human Rights Defenders

Thailand’s general election set for May 14

Myanmar

May 04, 2023

Letter

Burma: Joint Letter from 190 Organizations to President Biden Calling for Sanctions on Companies Supplying the Burmese Military with Jet Fuel

We, the undersigned 190 organizations, are shocked, horrified, and appalled by the Burmese military’s intentional targeting of civilians on April 11.

April 15, 2023

News Release

Myanmar Junta: End Attacks on Civilians, Comply with World Court Rulings

World Court rules against Myanmar junta request for an extension in genocide trial 

Thailand

April 14, 2023

Film

มีรายงานว่าชายสามคนถูกทางการไทยส่งตัวกลับไปเมียนมา และเกรงว่าอาจถูกควบคุมตัว

Thailand

April 14, 2023

Film

Three men reportedly returned to Myanmar by Thai authorities feared detained in Myanmar

Thailand

April 14, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Investigate Forced Returns, Urgently Implement Screenings to Prevent Refoulement 

Three men reportedly returned to Myanmar by Thai authorities feared detained in Myanmar 

Myanmar

April 13, 2023

Commentary

Myanmar’s Victims and Survivors Deserve Justice

By Nickey Diamond in The Diplomats

Bangladesh

March 25, 2023

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Participate in Workshop about Universal Jurisdiction 

Fortify Rights conducted an information and learning session about universal jurisdiction with a select group of Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh.

Bangladesh

March 18, 2023

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh Trained on Human Rights Documentation and Advocacy

Between March 16 and 18, 2023, Fortify Rights facilitated a three-day participatory training on human rights, documentation, and advocacy for more than 20 Rohingya refugees working with Rohingya-led organizations in Cox's Bazar refugee camps in Bangladesh

Bangladesh

March 16, 2023

News Release

Major Exhibition in Doha Showcases Three Rohingya Artists from Myanmar

2023 Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar features Rohingya photographers Omal Khair, Dil Kayas, Azimul Hasson  

Thailand

March 14, 2023

News Release

Thailand: Stop Judicial Harassment of Three Thai Women Human Rights Defenders

Thai court schedules new trial dates in years-long campaign of judicial harassment 

Thailand

March 07, 2023

Film

Everyday Rights: Kanchana Di-ut on the resilience of sexual assault survivors

Bangladesh

February 23, 2023

Strengthening

Senior Diplomats Meet Rohingya Refugee Human Rights Defenders in Bangladesh 

Fortify Rights helped organized meetings between Rohingya refugee human rights defenders living in refugee camps in Bangladesh and senior-level diplomats from the Netherlands and the U.S. 

Bangladesh

February 23, 2023

News Release

Donor Governments and Bangladesh: Ensure the Right to Food for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh, Lift Restrictions

U.N. announced cuts in food aid for Rohingya refugees

Myanmar

February 20, 2023

Profile

Seeking Accountability in German Courts: Abdul Rasheed

By Sippachai Kunnuwong

Myanmar

February 20, 2023

Film

Event Summary: Criminal Complaint Filed in Germany against Myanmar Generals

Thailand

February 20, 2023

Film

Valentine’s Day: Thai LGBTI+ Couples Campaign for the Marriage Equality Bill

Myanmar

February 17, 2023

Strengthening

Myanmar Human Rights and Aid Groups Trained in Video Editing and Animation 

Fortify Rights conducted two separate multimedia trainings for groups working on the Myanmar-Thailand border

Thailand

February 16, 2023

Film

วาเลนไทน์: คู่รัก LGBTI+ เรียกร้องรัฐบาลผ่านกฏหมายสมรสเท่าเทียม

Myanmar

February 02, 2023

Film

“We Will Die There”: Ethnic Karen Refugees Face Thai Authorities’ Pushback to Myanmar

Thailand

February 02, 2023

News Release

Thailand: End Forced Returns of Myanmar Refugees, Cooperate with Official Investigation

New short-film on pushbacks of refugee children as Thai commission announces investigation

Myanmar

February 01, 2023

Film

730 Days of Resistance

Myanmar

February 01, 2023

Film

“เราคงจะตายอยู่ที่นั่น”: ผู้ลี้ภัยชาวกะเหรี่ยงและเด็กถูกทางการไทยผลักดันกลับไปเมียนมา

Thailand

February 01, 2023

Commentary

2 ปีรัฐประหารพม่ากับความสิ้นหวังของเด็กผู้ลี้ภัยในไทย

โดย พุทธณี กางกั้น บน The 101 World

Myanmar

January 25, 2023

Profile

Seeking Accountability in German Courts: Nickey Diamond

By Sippachai Kunnuwong

Myanmar

January 24, 2023

News Release

Criminal Complaint Filed in Germany against Myanmar Generals for Atrocity Crimes

Fortify Rights and 16 individual complainants seek accountability for Rohingya genocide and coup-related atrocities

Myanmar

January 23, 2023

Film

ရှင်းပြချက် – ကမ္ဘာတလွှား တရားစီရင်ပိုင်ခွင့် ဆိုတာဘာလဲ။ (မြန်မာနှင့် ရိုဟင်ဂျာ ဘာသာစကား)

Myanmar

January 19, 2023

Film

Explainer: What is Universal Jurisdiction?

January 17, 2023

Film

Everyday Rights: Suthai Khunchanakol

Thailand

January 16, 2023

Film

Everyday Rights: “สุไทย ขุนชนะกล” สู้เพื่อสิทธิของเยาวชนกะเหรี่ยงและเด็กผู้ลี้ภัย

Bangladesh

January 16, 2023

Commentary

เชื่อมโยงศิลปะกับสิทธิมนุษยชนผ่าน ‘A Chance to Breathe’ หนังสือภาพถ่ายของผู้ลี้ภัยโรฮีนจา

โดย พุทธณี กางกั้น บน Thairath Online

Thailand

January 13, 2023

Commentary

Thailand is Failing Refugee Children

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Diplomat

Others

January 13, 2023

Film

The Last 12 Months at Fortify Rights

Myanmar

January 12, 2023

News Release

India: Close Airspace to Myanmar Junta Air Force

Junta reportedly bombs Indian territory in fresh attacks on Chin Army

Annual Report

January 01, 2023

Report

Annual Report 2022

Thailand

December 15, 2022

Letter

Human Rights Concerns Regarding the Draft Notification of the Protected Person Screening Committee

We write to you today regarding the National Screening Mechanism (NSM) aimed at identifying and potentially protecting refugees in Thailand and the development of the Draft Notification of the Protected Person Screening Committee (Draft Notification).

Thailand

December 15, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Ensure “National Screening Mechanism” is Accessible to All Refugees

Thai policy may exclude migrant workers and others from refugee protection

Others

December 13, 2022

Statement

Laos: After 10 years, civil society worldwide is still asking: “Where is Sombath?”

Ahead of the 10-year anniversary of the enforced disappearance of Lao civil society leader Sombath Somphone, we, the undersigned civil society organizations and individuals, renew calls on the Lao government to determine his fate and whereabouts and deliver justice, truth, and reparation to his family.

Others

December 10, 2022

Film

Fortify Rights receives the 2022 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award

Others

December 10, 2022

News Release

Fortify Rights Receives 2022 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award

Human rights organization honored for its investigative work

Thailand

December 05, 2022

Strengthening

Refugees in Thailand Trained on Rights and Advocacy

Fortify Rights contributed to a training organized by HOST International for a group of 15 refugees, including 12 women, from Viet Nam and Cambodia.

Bangladesh

November 28, 2022

Commentary

When art intersects human rights

By Puttanee Kangkun in Bangkok Post

Thailand

November 24, 2022

Strengthening

Refugees Trained on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence Issues 

Fortify Rights contributed to training organized by HOST International for a group of 15 refugees, including 12 women from Viet Nam and Cambodia.

Thailand

November 19, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Investigate Use of Excessive Force, Protect Right to Protest

Police arbitrarily arrested and beat protesters in custody, injured scores

Bangladesh

November 16, 2022

Strengthening

The Rohingya Language Preservation Project Launches Human Rights Report 

ธhe Rohingya Language Preservation Project—a Rohingya-led and directed initiative—launched its first report, based on participatory action research conducted between July and December 2021.

Bangladesh

November 10, 2022

Film

Messages from the Media Fellows at “Art, Hope, And Human Rights in Myanmar” Hosted by The Fort

Myanmar

November 10, 2022

News Release

ASEAN: Suspend Myanmar Junta Participation, Enact Emergency Measures to Protect Civilians

Leaked ASEAN document reveals proposal to appease Myanmar junta, “maintain status quo”

Myanmar

November 07, 2022

Strengthening

Myanmar-Led Center for Arakan Studies Issues First Human Rights Report

The Center for Arakan Studies—an Arakanese-led organization—published its first report on the human rights situation in Rakhine State.

Bangladesh

November 03, 2022

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh Call on Myanmar Military and Arakan Army to End Attacks on Rohingya

Rohingya refugee-led civil society organizations in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh published a joint statement advocating for the Myanmar military and Arakan Army to cease attacks on Rohingya civilians.

Myanmar

November 02, 2022

Profile

Myanmar Journalist Keeps the News Alive

“I believe that all of us, whether in Myanmar or elsewhere, should have the complete freedom and right to tell our stories and the violations we face, freely and publicly, with no repercussions on ourselves.”

Thailand

November 01, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Prioritize the Marriage Equality Bill in New Legislative Session

A new National Assembly session opens on November 1

Myanmar

November 01, 2022

Letter

BURMA: Letter to Secretary Blinken on Airstrike Killed More than 80 People in Burma’s Kachin State

Re: Open letter from 288 diaspora, community organizations, and NGOs calling for concrete US action in response to recent airstrikes in Kachin State and other parts of Burma

Thailand

October 28, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Implement Anti-Torture Legislation, End Forced Returns of Refugees

New Thai law prohibits refugee push-backs to countries where they may face torture

Myanmar

October 27, 2022

News Release

ASEAN: Scrap Five-Point Consensus, Urgently Protect Civilians in Myanmar

Southeast Asian foreign ministers gather in Jakarta for emergency meeting on Myanmar crisis

Malaysia

October 18, 2022

Film

Malaysia: Prosecute Officials Involved in Rohingya Trafficking and Mishandled Investigation

Malaysia

October 18, 2022

News Release

Malaysia: Prosecute Officials Involved in Rohingya Trafficking and Mishandled Investigation

“Secret” report details mishandling of Wang Kelian trafficking investigation

Bangladesh

October 15, 2022

Commentary

Remembering Mohib Ullah and the Need for Refugee Protection

By John Quinley III in The Daily Star

Thailand

September 30, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Address Human Rights Violations Ahead of Election to Global Rights Body    

Foreign minister announces Thailand’s U.N. Human Rights Council candidacy at U.N. General Assembly

Thailand

September 16, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Pass Marriage Equality Bill, Protect LGBTI+ Rights

National Assembly set to close September 19, delaying marriage equality protections

Thailand

September 13, 2022

Commentary

Thailand’s Anti-Torture Bill Could Finally End Refugee Push-Backs

By Patrick Phongsathorn in Southeast Asia Globe

Thailand

September 10, 2022

Commentary

พ.ร.บ.ซ้อมทรมานฯ จะช่วยยุติการส่งกลับผู้ลี้ภัยได้จริงหรือ?

โดย แพททริก พงศธร บน The Momentum

September 09, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Drop Judicial Harassment Case Against Three Thai Women Human Rights Defenders

Court to rule on Monday whether criminal defamation case will proceed to trial

Thailand

September 06, 2022

Commentary

What Thailand Can Do to Respond to the Genocide in Myanmar

By Puttanee Kangkun in Prachatai English

Thailand

September 02, 2022

Commentary

ส่องบทบาทไทยในวิกฤติ ‘ฆ่าล้างเผ่าพันธุ์’ ในพม่า

โดย พุทธณี กางกั้น บน Thairath Online

Thailand

September 02, 2022

Commentary

Can Marriage Equality Become a Reality in Thailand?

By Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn and Sippachai Kunnuwong in The Diplomat

Myanmar

August 30, 2022

Film

“Tools of Genocide” (Burmese): Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

August 30, 2022

Film

“Tools of Genocide”: Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Myanmar

August 29, 2022

Commentary

Symposium on Myanmar and International Indifference: The Rohingya Genocide – Warning Signs, International Inaction, and Missteps

By Mathew Smith in The Opinio Juris

Malaysia

August 26, 2022

Film

“Sold Like Fish” I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Malaysia

August 26, 2022

Film

“Sold Like Fish” (Burmese) I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

August 25, 2022

Film

“The Torture in My Mind” (Burmese) I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Bangladesh

August 25, 2022

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee-Led Organizations Welcome U.S. Genocide Determination

11 Rohingya-led civil society organizations in Bangladesh refugee camps issued a statement welcoming the U.S. government’s determination that the Myanmar military’s attack on Rohingya amounted to genocide and crimes against humanity. 

August 25, 2022

Strengthening

A Chance to Breathe: A Photography Book by Rohingya Refugees

Three Rohingya photographers have been visually documenting life in the sprawling refugee camps of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, since 2018, and turned it into a book.

Myanmar

August 25, 2022

Film

“The Torture in My Mind” I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Myanmar

August 25, 2022

Film

“They Gave Them Long Swords” (Burmese) I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Myanmar

August 25, 2022

Film

“They Gave Them Long Swords” I Resources on the Rohingya Genocide

Bangladesh, Myanmar

August 25, 2022

Commentary

Symposium on Myanmar and International Indifference: Rethinking Accountability – Shifting Sands: Why the NUG and Bangladesh Must Now Take a Stand for the Rights of the Rohingya

By Zaw Win in Opiono Juris

Bangladesh

August 23, 2022

News Release

New Book “A Chance to Breathe” Features Rarely-Seen Photography and Poetry from Rohingya Refugees

Rohingya artists from Myanmar document life in one of the world’s largest refugee camps

Thailand

August 18, 2022

Film

“This #NPO bill is clearly set forth with a hidden agenda”

Thailand

August 17, 2022

Film

สมบูรณ์ คำแหง: “กฎหมาย #NPObill มีนัยแอบแฝงค่อนข้างชัดเจน”

Thailand

August 14, 2022

Film

“Once the #NPObill becomes law, we are barred from speaking out” 🤐

Thailand

August 12, 2022

Film

“เราไม่มีสิทธิจะพูดอะไรได้ 🤐 ถ้าร่าง #พรบNPO กลายเป็นกฎหมายไปแล้ว”

Myanmar

August 02, 2022

Profile

Scars of Resilience: Transgender Protester Advocates for LGBTI+ People Displaced by the Myanmar Coup

“LGBT rights are human rights. I want to encourage fellow LGBT people not to be discouraged”

Thailand

July 27, 2022

Film

“พ.ร.บ. NPO ออกมาเพื่อควบคุมองค์กรที่เห็นต่าง เรารู้สึกว่าเราถูกละเมิดสิทธิ”

Thailand

July 27, 2022

Film

“The Thai NPO bill is drafted to regulate dissenting organizations” – LNPR

Myanmar

July 27, 2022

Strengthening

Rohingya in India Condemn Myanmar Execution of Democracy Activists

The Rohingya-led Rohingya Human Rights Initiative (RHRI) issued a statement calling for international action against the junta in Myanmar following the execution of four prominent democracy activists in Myanmar.

Myanmar

July 22, 2022

News Release

U.N. Member States: Join and Support Genocide Trial Against Myanmar Junta

World Court rejects military junta’s objections, genocide case to proceed

Thailand

July 19, 2022

Film

“พ.ร.บ.NPO เป็นเรื่องอันตรายต่อประชาชน” – กลุ่มราษฎรัมส์

Thailand

July 19, 2022

Film

RasaDrums: “Thailand’s NPO bill is dangerous to the people”

Thailand

July 18, 2022

Commentary

Thailand’s Myanmar Policy is Costing Communities on Both Sides of the Border

By Patrick Phongsathorn in The Diplomat

Thailand

July 05, 2022

Commentary

With Eased Covid Curbs, Lift Decree

By Ismail Wolff in Bangkok Post

Myanmar

June 30, 2022

Profile

Proud and Defiant: The Plight of an LGBTI+ Refugee After the Myanmar Coup

Just days after Myanmar’s military coup on February 1, 2021, Moe Thar* quit his stable job at a Japanese language school and a restaurant and joined the anti-junta protests.

Myanmar

June 10, 2022

Film

အမှည့်ခြွေဂျီနိုဆိုက် – အစီရင်ခံစာ စတင်ဖြန့်ဖြူးခြင်းအခမ်းအနားနှင့် စကားဝိုင်းဆွေးနွေးပွဲ

Myanmar

June 10, 2022

Film

Genocide by Attrition: Report Launch and Panel Discussion

Myanmar

June 09, 2022

Film

ဗီဒီယို အက်ဉ်းခ်ုပ် – အမှည့်ခြွေ ဂျီနိုဆိုက်

Myanmar

June 09, 2022

Film

Genocide by Attrition: Report Summary

Myanmar

June 08, 2022

News Release

U.N. Member States: Hold Myanmar Military Accountable for Ongoing Crimes  

New report links Myanmar genocide with Holocaust, Rwanda

Myanmar

June 08, 2022

Report

Genocide by Attrition

The Role of Identity Documents in the Holocaust and the Genocides of Rwanda and Myanmar

Malaysia

June 08, 2022

Statement

Malaysia: Two Years On, Still No Protection & Accountability for Rohingya HRD Zafar Ahmad from Harassment and Threats

We, the undersigned organisations, are deeply concerned about the situation of stateless Rohingya refugee and human rights defender Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani, President of Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organization, who has been vilified and has received death threats since April 2020 after he was falsely accused of demanding Malaysian citizenship and equal rights for the Rohingya in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thailand

June 07, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Approve Marriage Equality Bill, End Discrimination of LGBTI+ Persons

House of Representatives set to vote on revised bill tomorrow

Myanmar

June 06, 2022

Film

Abdul Rasheed: “Now, I can talk for the rights of the people of Myanmar”

Bangladesh

June 01, 2022

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee Teacher Quoted in New York Times

On May 5, 2022, New York Times published quotes from Rohingya refugee Mohammad Showfie in an article entitled "Bangladesh Shutters Dozens of Schools Set Up by Rohingya in Camps."

Thailand

June 01, 2022

Strengthening

Fortify Rights Facilitates Trainings for Human Rights Defenders and Practitioners

Fortify Rights facilitated and provided five trainings and workshops on a range of topics including refugees, U.N. special procedures on human rights, and rights to freedom of expression and association.

Bangladesh

May 26, 2022

News Release

Bangladesh: Investigate Refugee-Beatings by Police, Lift Restrictions on Movement

New research exposes beatings, abuse of Rohingya refugees by Bangladesh police

Thailand

May 12, 2022

Letter

Joint Letter to President Biden Re: Thailand’s Abusive Draft Law on Not-For-Profit Organizations

We, the undersigned non-profit organizations, are writing to express our serious concerns regarding Thailand’s Draft Act on the Operations of Not-for-Profit Organizations, which the Thai Cabinet approved in principle on January 4, 2022.

Myanmar

May 12, 2022

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Impose Binding Arms Embargo on Myanmar

President Biden due to meet ASEAN leaders in Washington, D.C.

Thailand

May 06, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Provide Official Protective Status to Myanmar Refugees, Prevent Forced Returns  

Royal Thai Army responds to viral video of soldiers dismantling border-bridge used by refugees, denies wrongdoing

Thailand

May 03, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Video Reveals Thai Soldiers Destroying Cross-Border Footbridge Used by Myanmar Refugees

Myanmar refugees face arbitrary arrest, alleged extortion in Thailand

Thailand

May 03, 2022

Film

ทหารไทยกำลังทำลายสะพานข้ามพรมแดนของผู้ลี้ภัยชาวเมียนมา

Thailand

May 03, 2022

Film

Thai Soldiers Destroying Cross-Border Footbridge Used by Myanmar Refugees

April 28, 2022

Statement

Bangladesh: Restore and Strengthen Capacity of Community-led Schools in Rohingya Camps

Bangladesh’s government must urgently take steps to support the community-led learning facilities in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar and strengthen their resources in line with the country’s international commitment to protect children’s right to education, 25 undersigned organizations said in a statement today.

Thailand

April 26, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against U.N. Special Procedures Mandate-Holder Angkhana Neelapaijit

Criminal-defamation trial scheduled for March 2023

Bangladesh

April 25, 2022

Film

Rohingya Refugees React to the U.S. Genocide Determination

Bangladesh

April 15, 2022

Letter

Joint Letter: To Humanitarian Donor Governments on Education for Rohingya Refugee Children in Bangladesh

As a leading donor to the Rohingya humanitarian crisis, the European Commission has provided crucial support for Rohingya refugee children in Bangladesh. Education for many of those children is now in peril.

Myanmar

April 05, 2022

Profile

A Rohingya Poet Transforms Pain into Power

Mayyu Ali is a poet, author of two books, educator, and researcher. He is also a genocide survivor.

Thailand

April 02, 2022

Film

U.N. Appoints Angkhana Neelapaijit to Working Group on Enforced Disappearances

Thailand

March 31, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Dismiss Ongoing Criminal Defamation Cases, Decriminalize Defamation

Appeals Court upholds acquittal of human rights defenders Nan Win and Sutharee Wannasiri

Bangladesh

March 31, 2022

Strengthening

Rohingya Media Fellows Share Life in a Refugee Camp with the World

Three Rohingya refugee “media fellows”—Azimul Hasson, Omal Khair, and Dil Kayas—use photography to document and share what life is like in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.

Myanmar

March 30, 2022

Film

“Nowhere is Safe”: Rohingya Audio Report

Thailand

March 29, 2022

News Release, Letter

Thailand: Drop Draft Legislation on Not-for-Profit Organizations

Fortify Rights submits concerns to Thai government over draft “NGO law”

Thailand

March 29, 2022

Film

Thailand: Drop Draft Legislation on Not-for-Profit Organizations

Thailand

March 29, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Uphold Acquittal of Human Rights Defenders Nan Win and Sutharee Wannasiri

Appeal Court to issue a ruling on March 30, 2022

Thailand

March 29, 2022

Strengthening

Thailand’s Civil Society Express Opposition to Problematic Draft Law

Civil society groups in Thailand are protesting a new bill under consideration by the Thai Cabinet that threatens the work of civil society groups operating in Thailand.

March 28, 2022

Letter

Open Letter to the U.S. Congress to Urgently Pass the BURMA Act of 2021

We, the diaspora with our roots from all various regions of Burma residing in the United States, with the endorsement by civil society organizations and community-based organizations inside Burma and global solidarity organizations, write to express our support for the BURMA Act and request its expedited passage into law.

Myanmar

March 24, 2022

Film

“Nowhere is Safe”: Report Summary

Myanmar

March 24, 2022

News Release

Myanmar: New Evidence and Findings of Post-Coup d’État Crimes Against Humanity

193-page atrocities report identifies 61 perpetrators, exposes 1,040 military locations

Myanmar

March 24, 2022

Report

“Nowhere is Safe”

The Myanmar Junta's Crimes Against Humanity Following the Coup d'État

Thailand

March 23, 2022

Letter

Submission of Concerns Regarding the Draft Not-For-Profit Organizations Act

In response to your Ministry’s request for input on the Draft Act on the Operation of Not-for-Profit Organizations B.E…., Fortify Rights appreciates the opportunity to detail concerns regarding the Act’s failure to meet international human rights standards. Given these concerns, we respectfully urge the Thai Cabinet to drop the Draft Act and reaffirm its commitment to promote human rights in Thailand.

Myanmar

March 21, 2022

News Release

U.N. Member States: Acknowledge the Rohingya Genocide, Refer Myanmar to the International Criminal Court

In historic determination, U.S. Government acknowledges Rohingya genocide

Thailand

March 18, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Protect Human Rights Defenders from SLAPP

Preliminary hearing in case against women human rights defenders scheduled for March 21

Thailand

March 02, 2022

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Former Thailand National Human Rights Commissioner and 2019 Magsaysay Award Winner Angkhana Neelapaijit

Court postpones trial hearings from March to April 25, 2022

Bangladesh

February 26, 2022

News Release

Fortify Rights Wins Anthem Award for Rohingya Photography Project

Virtual awards show hosted by actor Jay Ellis on Monday

Myanmar

February 15, 2022

Report

Ongoing War Crimes in Karenni (Kayah) State, Myanmar

May 2021 to January 2022

Myanmar

February 15, 2022

News Release

ASEAN: Support a Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar Military Junta

New “flash report” details war crimes, ongoing attacks on civilians in Myanmar’s Karenni State

February 08, 2022

Statement

Resist Myanmar’s Digital Coup: Stop the Military Consolidating Digital Control

Today, the military is ramping up efforts to cement authoritarian control of online space, alongside violent crackdowns, and serious human rights violations. This is a digital coup, and the world must resist. 

Myanmar

February 03, 2022

Letter

Joint Letter: Representation of Myanmar in International Court of Justice Proceedings

Subject: Representation of Myanmar in International Court of Justice proceedings

Myanmar

February 03, 2022

News Release

International Court of Justice Risks Recognising Junta as Legitimate Government of Myanmar

Three international organizations and more than 800 Rohingya refugees advise the Court to reject military junta

Myanmar

February 01, 2022

Film

Refugees Flee to Thai-Myanmar Border After Military Attacks

Myanmar

February 01, 2022

Film

365 days under the #Myanmar coup

Myanmar

January 31, 2022

Commentary

In Myanmar, We’re Looking Back on a Year of Trauma Since the coup

By Zau Maran in The Washington Post

Bangladesh

January 30, 2022

News Release

Bangladesh: Prevent Coercive and Involuntary Transfers of Rohingya Refugees

New testimony and video reveal coercive threats and family separation

Myanmar

January 28, 2022

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Prohibit Arms Sales to Myanmar Junta Amid Ongoing War Crimes

Security Council due to meet today on the situation in Myanmar

Myanmar

January 24, 2022

Statement

Joint Statement on Myanmar UN Security Council Open Briefing

We, the undersigned 286 organizations stress the need, at an absolute minimum, to convene an open meeting of the UN Security Council to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation and urgent civilian protection concerns in Myanmar as a matter of extreme urgency.

January 01, 2022

Report

Annual Report 2021

Thailand

December 27, 2021

Film

เอกชัย อิสระทะ: เสรีภาพในการแสดงออกกับราคาที่ต้องจ่าย

Thailand

December 27, 2021

Film

The Cost of Speaking Out: Ekachai Issaratha

Bangladesh

December 20, 2021

News Release

Bangladesh: End Restrictions and Protect Rohingya Refugees

U.N. human rights expert concludes visit to Bhasan Char and mainland refugee camps

Bangladesh

December 17, 2021

Commentary

The Rohingya Trapped on a Remote Tropical Island

By Zaw Win in The Diplomat

Bangladesh

December 15, 2021

Statement

Memorandum of Understanding . . . Relating to Bhasan Char

On October 19, a journalist leaked the MoU online making it fully public. Fortify Rights translated the full MoU into the Rohingya language with an audio translation.

Malaysia

December 13, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee Speaks Out Against Hate

In an article published on December 13 by the Southeast Asia Globe, Rohingya refugee leader Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani exposed the impacts of hate speech and disinformation spreading on Facebook for refugees living in Malaysia. 

Thailand

December 10, 2021

Strengthening

16 Days to End Gender-Based Violence

Between November 25 and December 10, Fortify Rights contributed to the global campaign to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.

Myanmar

December 09, 2021

Commentary

Dangerous Data: Telenor’s Irresponsible Exit from Myanmar May Put Customers’ Lives at Risk

By Patrick Phongsathorn and Lucy Purdon in South China Morning Post

Myanmar

December 08, 2021

Profile

Karenni Woman Tackles Gender-Based Violence Through Education

Now a prominent women’s rights defender, she is working to strengthen gender equality and end gender-based violence by ensuring women and girls have access to education.

Others

December 08, 2021

Letter

Joint Letter to Frances Haugen

Dear Ms Haugen, we greatly appreciate your courage and tenacity in exposing the wrongdoings of Facebook and helping to safeguard our democracies. Following your recent public interventions to policymakers and legislations, we are writing to invite you to open up a dialogue with civil society and human rights organisations like us.

Bangladesh

December 07, 2021

Profile

Rohingya Activist Dedicates Herself to Healing Trauma and Supporting Women

Born in Myanmar and raised in Bangladesh, Razia Sultana is a human rights activist, researcher, and founder of the RW Welfare Society.

Myanmar

December 07, 2021

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Take Urgent Action Against Myanmar Military Junta

New evidence the junta is violating ICJ “provisional measures”

Bangladesh

December 02, 2021

Profile

Rohingya Woman Strives to End Gender-Based Violence

Yasmin, originally from Buthidaung Township in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, observed the extent of gender-based violence within her community.

Bangladesh

December 01, 2021

Film

Partner Feedback: Rohingya Media Fellows

Bangladesh

December 01, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee Media Fellows Provide Insight on Camp Life

Three Rohingya refugee “media fellows”—Azimul Hasson, Omal Khair, and Dil Kayas—use photography to show what life is like for refugees living in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh.

Thailand

November 30, 2021

Letter

Thailand: Joint Letter on Restrictions on Prison Visits and Correspondence

Re: Ongoing restrictions on prison visits and correspondence

Thailand

November 30, 2021

Film

เรื่องราวของเซี้ยะ วัชราภรณ์ กู่แก้วเกษม

Thailand

November 30, 2021

Film

Profile: Sia Kukaewkasem #16DaysOfActivism

November 30, 2021

Profile

Myanmar Woman Empowers Migrants in Thailand

Born in Northern Shan State, Myanmar, Mai Mai, age 51, moved to Thailand in 2007. Driven by a desire to improve the lives of migrant workers and have a positive impact on the world.

Thailand

November 25, 2021

Profile

Thai Domestic Violence Survivor Supports Justice for Other Survivors

Survivors of domestic violence have rights—and in Thailand, 38-year-old Nanthiya “Fon,” is one woman survivor working to protect those rights.

Thailand

November 18, 2021

Film

Thailand Defends Human Rights Record At U.N.

Thailand

November 18, 2021

Film

ประเทศไทยกล่าวรายงานปกป้องสถานการณ์ด้านสิทธิมนุษยชนที่องค์การสหประชาชาติ

Others

November 17, 2021

Film

Fortify Rights: Our Theory of Change

Thailand

November 11, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Release Information on Draft Amendments to the Communicable Diseases Act

Parliament expected to consider legislation to replace COVID-19 Emergency Decree

Thailand

November 11, 2021

Letter

Joint Letter Re: Request for Information on Approved Draft Amendments to the Communicable Diseases Act

We, the 10 undersigned organizations, request your government to publish information on the draft amendments to the 2015 Communicable Diseases Act recently approved by the Cabinet and ensure the amendments align with international human rights law.

Myanmar

November 10, 2021

Report

Access Denied

The Myanmar Military Junta’s Deprivation of Lifesaving Aid in Karenni (Kayah) State

Myanmar

November 10, 2021

News Release

U.N. Member States: Ensure Cross-Border Aid for Displaced Civilians in Myanmar

Military junta blocking lifesaving aid to displaced civilians

Myanmar

November 08, 2021

Film

အနှစ်ချုပ်အစီရင်ခံစာမထွက်မီ ကြိုတင်အသိပေး ဗီဒီယိုကလစ်

Thailand

November 08, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Provide Legal Status to Refugees, End Detention and Forced Returns

U.N. to Assess Thailand’s Human Rights Record on November 10

Myanmar

November 08, 2021

Film

รายงานด่วน: “ปฏิเสธการเข้าถึง”

Myanmar

October 27, 2021

Commentary

Myanmar Human Rights Supporters Need New Strategies

By Vanessa Chong in Southeast Asia Globe

Thailand

October 22, 2021

Film

The Cost of Speaking Out: Ngamsuk Ruttanasatain

Thailand

October 22, 2021

Film

งามศุกร์ รัตนเสถียร: เสรีภาพในการแสดงออกกับราคาที่ต้องจ่าย

Bangladesh

October 15, 2021

News Release

Bangladesh and UNHCR: Revise and Release Bhasan Char MoU, Ensure Freedom of Movement for Rohingya Refugees

New MoU between UNHCR and Bangladesh kept private

Myanmar

October 01, 2021

Statement

Amicus Curiae Submitted to Argentinian Federal Court

Amicus Curiae submitted by Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Fortify Rights in support of a Universal Jurisdiction Case in Argentina to Prosecute AtrocityCrimes against Rohingya in Myanmar

Myanmar

September 30, 2021

News Release

Argentina: Prosecute Crimes Against Rohingya in Myanmar

Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Fortify Rights submit amicus curiae to Federal Court in Argentina

Bangladesh

September 29, 2021

News Release

Bangladesh: Investigate Assassination of Rohingya Human Rights Defender Mohib Ullah

Rohingya leader shot dead in refugee camp

Thailand

September 28, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Misuse of COVID-19 Emergency Decree, Bring Provisions in Line with Human Rights Law

Thai government extends COVID-19 emergency decree by two months

Myanmar

September 22, 2021

Commentary

The evidence is clear: The US must recognize genocide in Myanmar

By John Quinley III and Matthew Smith in The Hill

Thailand

September 22, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Follow Supreme Court Precedent, Dismiss Cases of Judicial Harassment Against Human Rights Defenders

Supreme Court upholds lower court dismissal of criminal defamation complaint against university lecturer Ngamsuk Ruttanasatain

Myanmar

September 13, 2021

News Release

U.N. Member States: Recognize Credentials of Myanmar Representative Kyaw Moe Tun

General Assembly expected to determine Myanmar representation at U.N. tomorrow

Myanmar

September 13, 2021

Commentary

Show Us Your Credentials: The Battle for Myanmar at the UN

By Patrick Phongsathorn in The Diplomat

Myanmar

September 13, 2021

Film

Peaceful Protests Continue Throughout Myanmar

Myanmar

September 10, 2021

Letter

Open Letter in Support of Continuing Recognition of Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun as Myanmar’s Permanent Representative at the UN General Assembly

To Permanent Representatives of Member States of the UN General Assembly

Thailand

September 09, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Ensure COVID-19-Response Protects Basic Freedoms

Regulations under COVID-19 emergency decree contravene human rights standards

Bangladesh

September 01, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee Photographers Capture Everyday Life in Bangladesh Camps

Three Rohingya refugee “media fellows”—Azimul Hasson, Omal Khair, and Dil Kayas—use photography to show what life is like for refugees living in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh.

Thailand

September 01, 2021

Letter

Joint Letter Re: Concerns Regarding the Right to Peaceful Assembly in Thailand

The 13 undersigned organizations, write to express our concern regarding violence and the excessive use of force by police at recent protests in Bangkok.

Bangladesh

August 25, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh Mark “Genocide Remembrance Day”

On August 25, ten Rohingya camp-based groups in Bangladesh produced a joint statement to mark the genocidal attacks by the military that took place on August 25 in 2017 in Rakhine State.

Bangladesh

August 25, 2021

Film

Exodus | Fortify Rights and Doha Debates

Bangladesh

August 25, 2021

News Release

New Film “EXODUS” Provides Unique Window into Lives of Rohingya Refugees

Documentary from Fortify Rights and Doha Debates released worldwide today

Myanmar

August 24, 2021

Film

မှောင်မိုက်တဲ့ အကြောက်ညကြီး

Myanmar

August 24, 2021

Film

The Terrifying Night

Myanmar

August 19, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Engage the International Criminal Court to Hold Military Perpetrators of Mass Atrocity Crimes Accountable

New report finds Myanmar’s National Unity Government can grant jurisdiction to ICC

Myanmar

August 19, 2021

Report

Ending Impunity in Myanmar

Can the National Unity Government of Myanmar Delegate Jurisdiction to the International Criminal Court?

Myanmar

August 17, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Accountability for Massacre and other Atrocities

Ethnic-army commanders confess to Fortify Rights on massacre of 25 men, deny wrongdoing

Thailand

August 16, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Drop Charges, End the Judicial Harassment of Former National Human Rights Commissioner and Others

Angkhana Neelapaijit charged with criminal defamation, case set for trial on October 26

Thailand

August 13, 2021

Film

การประท้วงโดยสงบคืออะไร?

Thailand

August 13, 2021

Film

What Is A Peaceful Protest?

Thailand

August 12, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Defamation Cases against Angkhana Neelapaijit and other Human Rights Defenders

Court due to issue preliminary ruling on August 16

Myanmar

August 10, 2021

Letter

Joint Open Letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken

90+ Organizations Urge a Rohingya Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide Determination Myanmar

Myanmar

August 08, 2021

Profile

From 1988 to 2021: The Life of a Myanmar Soldier Turned Human Rights Defender

Myint Wai, a 62-year-old former Myanmar soldier, fought for democracy during the 8888 uprising and continues the fight today as the Director of the Thai Action Committee for Democracy in Burma.

Thailand

August 02, 2021

Statement

Submission to the U.N. Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

On Thailand’s Compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

Thailand

July 30, 2021

Film

หลักการไม่ส่งกลับคืออะไร?

Thailand

July 30, 2021

Film

What is Non-Refoulement?

Myanmar

July 30, 2021

Film

Myanmar Junta Attacks Myitkyina, Kachin State

Myanmar

July 23, 2021

Profile

Myanmar Student-Activist Strives for a Better Myanmar

Twenty-seven-year-old “Poe Poe”—not her real name—began organizing and joining anti-coup protests in her hometown of Yangon after witnessing the violent tactics of the Myanmar military.

Myanmar

July 22, 2021

News Release

United Kingdom: Implement Parliament Recommendations on Myanmar, Take Action at U.N. Security Council

Bipartisan parliamentary committee issues call-to-action on unfolding human rights catastrophe

Myanmar

July 21, 2021

Film

Covid-19 Surges in Myanmar

Myanmar

July 21, 2021

News Release

U.N. Member States: Form Emergency Coalition to Respond to COVID Outbreak and Coup d’état in Myanmar

Deadly third wave of COVID-19 is sweeping the nation

Thailand

July 19, 2021

Letter

Joint Letter on Prison Conditions and COVID-19

Re: Urgently address overcrowding, protect prisoners’ health during COVID-19 crisis

Bangladesh

July 16, 2021

Profile

Refugee-Run Home Education Gives Hope to Rohingya Children and Youth

Despite doing well in school, Zahid was unable to attend university due to travel restrictions imposed by the Myanmar authorities against Rohingya.

Bangladesh

July 15, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Discuss a Pending Case of Genocide Against Myanmar

A dozen members of nine camp-based Rohingya civil society groups virtually met an international lawyer involved in bringing a case of genocide against Myanmar.

Bangladesh

July 14, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Engage with International Accountability Mechanisms

Seven members of the Rohingya Women’s Network exchanged updates and information with representatives involved in advancing international accountability mechanisms during a virtual meeting.

Others

June 30, 2021

Strengthening

LGBTI+ Human Rights Defenders Celebrate Pride Month

Fortify Rights celebrated Pride Month in June along with LGBTI+ human rights defenders and others.

Bangladesh

June 30, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Use Photography to Show Life in Bangladesh Camps

Between April and June 2021, Dil Kayas, Azimul Hasson, and Omal Khair curated and posted 19 photos on their respective Instagram accounts.

Myanmar

June 29, 2021

Film

သပိတ်ခေါင်းဆောင်အား မြန်မာ အာဏာသိမ်းစစ်ကောင်စီမှ အဓမ္မဖမ်းဆီးခြင်

Myanmar

June 29, 2021

Film

The Arbitrary Arrest of Myanmar Protest Leader Wai Moe Naing

Thailand

June 21, 2021

Film

ผู้ลี้ภัยหลบหนีจากการประหัตประหารในเมียนมา

Myanmar

June 21, 2021

Film

Refugees Flee Persecution in Myanmar

Thailand

June 17, 2021

Letter

Joint Letter: Proposed Thailand Law Threatens Civil Society Organizations Combatting Human Trafficking

We, the undersigned workers’ rights and human rights organizations, are writing to express our concerns regarding Thailand’s Draft Act on the Operations of Not-for-Profit Organizations.

Bangladesh

June 10, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Media Fellow Speaks About Photography and Atrocities

(COX’S BAZAR, June 10, 2021)—In a recorded statement produced for a panel discussion of No Place on Earth, a book by award-winning photographer Patrick Brown documenting the Rohingya genocide, Fortify Rights Rohingya Media Fellow Dil Kayas expressed her love for and the power of photography.

Myanmar

June 03, 2021

News Release

Myanmar National Unity Government: Appoint an Ethnic-Rohingya Envoy to Implement New Policy

NUG issues monumental policy shift on Rohingya rights

Bangladesh

June 03, 2021

Film

Rohingya Protest on Bangladeshi Island

June 03, 2021

Audit Report 2020

We have audited the accompanying statement of financial position of Fortify, Inc.(a not-for-profit corporation), as of December 31, 2020, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses, and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.

Myanmar

May 31, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Women Engage the National Unity Government of Myanmar

Thirteen members of the Rohingya Women’s Network exchanged updates and recommendations with Myanmar’s National Unity Government Minister for Women, Youth, and Children, Susanna Hla Hla Soe, and three other members of the ministry.

Myanmar

May 26, 2021

Statement

Submission of Evidence by Fortify Rights to the U.K. Foreign Affairs Committee

Re.: The Myanmar Crisis – Call for Evidence

Myanmar

May 25, 2021

News Release

United Kingdom: Take Urgent Action to Isolate Myanmar Junta, Support Accountability for Atrocities

U.K. Parliament holds inquiry into Myanmar crisis

Myanmar

May 23, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Allies Develop Strategies to End Atrocities in Myanmar

On May 22 and 23, 2021, more than 50 participants joined a two-day virtual Rohingya Strategy Coordination Meeting organized by Fortify Rights to discuss avenues to end military-led atrocities in Myanmar.

Myanmar

May 14, 2021

Commentary

Beyond the Coup in Myanmar: The ASEAN Way Must Change

By Vanessa Chong and Tanyalak Thongyoojaroen in Just Security

Thailand

May 12, 2021

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Pushbacks, Establish Protection Mechanisms for Refugees Fleeing Myanmar

Thai government instructed authorities to block refugees from Myanmar

Myanmar

May 05, 2021

Statement

Global Civil Society Statement on Myanmar

We, the undersigned organizations, call on the United Nations Security Council to urgently impose a comprehensive global arms embargo on Myanmar to help prevent further violations of human rights against peaceful protesters and others opposing military rule.

Bangladesh

May 05, 2021

News Release

Bangladesh: Remove Fencing, Support Fire-Affected Refugees

Barbed-wire fencing contributed to loss of life, injuries in deadly camp fires

Myanmar

May 05, 2021

Profile

Myanmar Journalist Persists, Despite Death Threats

Born in 1996 in a small village in northern Rakhine State, Kyaw Hsan Hlaing remembers the hardships of living under a military dictatorship from a young age.

Myanmar

April 23, 2021

News Release

ASEAN: Engage Myanmar’s National Unity Government to End Crisis and Military Rule

Myanmar government should have a seat at ASEAN summit

Myanmar

April 09, 2021

News Release

India: Protect Rohingya Refugees from Forced Return to Myanmar

Indian Supreme Court rules Rohingya refugees can be returned to Myanmar

Myanmar

April 08, 2021

Film

Myanmar Students in the U.S. Rally to Support the Movement in Their Home Country [Burmese Version]

Myanmar

April 08, 2021

Film

Myanmar Students in the U.S. Rally to Support the Movement in Their Home Country

Myanmar

April 07, 2021

Letter

Open Letter to Secretary of State Blinken on the Public Health and Human Rights Crisis in Myanmar

Others

March 31, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Women Speak out for Women During Women’s History Month

During the month of March, in recognition of Women’s History Month, Fortify Rights worked with five Rohingya women to develop animated social-media cards with messages of strength and support for Rohingya women.

Others

March 31, 2021

News Release

Fortify Rights Welcomes Actor Thomas Sadoski To Advisory Board 

“Governments must act now on Myanmar,” says acclaimed actor and longtime activist

Myanmar

March 30, 2021

Film

Refugees Flee Myanmar

Myanmar

March 27, 2021

Film

Myanmar’s Armed Forces Day Massacre

Myanmar

March 27, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Collective Action Needed to Stop Junta Attacks

Armed Forces Day massacre leaves scores dead

Myanmar

March 26, 2021

Film

Silent Strike in Myanmar

Myanmar

March 26, 2021

Film

Crackdown in Myeik, Tanintharyi Region of Myanmar

Myanmar

March 25, 2021

Film

Fire Devastates Rohingya Camps

Myanmar

March 24, 2021

Film

Everyday Rights: Sai Lao Mai

Myanmar

March 23, 2021

Film

50th Day of Myanmar Protest

Myanmar

March 18, 2021

Film

Media Shutdown in Myanmar

Bangladesh

March 16, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Media Fellow Photography Showcased at Oxford Human Rights Festival

Dil Kayas, a media fellow with Fortify Rights and Doha Debates, participated in the 19th Oxford Human Rights Festival as a prize winner of a Rohingya photography competition

Myanmar

March 16, 2021

Film

Internet Shutdown in Myanmar

Myanmar

March 15, 2021

News Release

U.N. General Assembly: Hold an Emergency Special Session on Myanmar

Myanmar junta systematically murdering and arresting protesters

Myanmar

March 15, 2021

Commentary

How Singaporeans Can Help the People of Myanmar

By Vanessa Chong in New Naratif

Myanmar

March 09, 2021

Film

Lockdown in Sanchuang

Myanmar

March 09, 2021

Film

Myanmar Women on the Protest Frontlines

Myanmar

March 08, 2021

Profile

HerStory: Myanmar Woman Opposes the Military in the Streets and Gender Roles at Home

Aeri Mon is also a member of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU)–a nationwide student organization with a long history of pro-democracy activism in Myanmar.

Myanmar

March 08, 2021

Commentary

Myanmar women risk it all to challenge the junta

By Tanyalak Thongyoojaroen in Al Jazeera

Myanmar

March 08, 2021

Profile

HerStory: Rohingya Woman Tackles Myths about Ethnic Nationalities in Myanmar

Pan Sandar Myint is a 2020 Miss World Australia Finalist and Global Peace Chain Ambassador.

Myanmar

March 08, 2021

Film

Protests Continue in Myanmar Despite Junta Violence

Myanmar

March 06, 2021

Film

Nighttime Raids in Myanmar

Myanmar

March 05, 2021

Film

End Lethal Attacks on Myanmar Protesters

Myanmar

March 04, 2021

News Release

Myanmar Junta: End Systematic Attack on the People of Myanmar, Reverse Coup d’état

Scores killed and injured, more than 1,400 arrested

Myanmar

March 03, 2021

Strengthening

Myanmar Women Speak at Harvard University

Myanmar women human rights defenders Wai Wai Nu and Thinzar Shunlei Yi spoke virtually at Harvard’s Carr Center for Human Rights Policy, sharing their insights on defending human rights amid the military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar

March 03, 2021

Film

Myanmar Junta Continues Terror Campaign

Myanmar

March 01, 2021

Film

Myanmar Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters

Myanmar

March 01, 2021

Film

Myanmar Junta Targets Journalists

Myanmar

February 26, 2021

Film

Myanmar’s Permanent Rep. Kyaw Moe Tun denounces the military coup

Thailand

February 25, 2021

Commentary

Young Thais reject old biases, support protesters in Myanmar

By Tanyalak Thongyoojaroen in Asia Times

Myanmar

February 24, 2021

Film

Impunity in Myanmar

Myanmar

February 24, 2021

News Release, Letter

U.N. Security Council: Impose a Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar Military

137 organizations call for urgent international action in response to coup and crackdown

Myanmar

February 24, 2021

Letter

Joint Call for a Global Arms Embargo on Myanmar

An Open Letter to the UN Security Council and Individual UN Member States

Myanmar

February 23, 2021

Film

မြန်မာပြည်သူထုရဲ့အသံများ

Myanmar

February 23, 2021

Film

Voices of the People of Myanmar

Myanmar

February 23, 2021

Film

22222 Nationwide Protest in Myanmar

Others

February 23, 2021

News Release

South/Southeast Asia Governments: Rescue Rohingya Refugees Stranded at Sea 

Scores of Rohingya reportedly adrift at sea.

Myanmar

February 22, 2021

Film

Use of Force against Protesters in Mandalay

Malaysia

February 19, 2021

News Release

Malaysia: Planned Forced Return of 1,200 to Myanmar

Returned Nationals Would Face Oppressive Military Rule

Myanmar

February 18, 2021

Film

Mass Protests Continue in Myanmar

Myanmar

February 18, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: End Assault on Media Freedom

Journalists detained, junta criminalizes press freedoms

Myanmar

February 17, 2021

Film

Shots Fired During Protests in Myitkyina, Myanmar

Myanmar

February 17, 2021

Statement

More than 70 Non-Governmental Organizations, Faith-Based Groups, and Academic Institutions Call for the Biden Administration to Repeal ICC Sanctions

The undersigned organizations urge the Biden Administration to engage constructively with the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Myanmar

February 16, 2021

Film

Myanmar Security Forces Use Excessive Force Against Protesters in Mandalay

Myanmar

February 14, 2021

Film

Night-Time Arrests in Myanmar

Thailand

February 12, 2021

Film

เสียงแห่งความเป็นน้ำหนึ่งใจเดียว

Thailand

February 12, 2021

Film

Sounds of Solidarity

Myanmar

February 12, 2021

Film

Myanmar Nationwide Protest

Myanmar

February 12, 2021

Film

Myanmar Police Use Excessive Force Against Peaceful Protesters

Myanmar

February 12, 2021

Film

Myanmar Junta Arbitrarily Arrests Civilians

Myanmar

February 11, 2021

Commentary

How to dodge the Chinese veto on Myanmar

By Matthew Smith in The Washington Post

Myanmar

February 11, 2021

Strengthening

Rohingya Women Condemn Military Coup in Myanmar

On February 11, the Rohingya Women’s Network released a statement condemning the military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar

February 10, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: End Violent Crackdown on Peaceful Protests, Ensure Right to Peaceful Assembly

Police shot 19-year-old woman in the head, injured others

Myanmar

February 08, 2021

Film

Countrywide Protests Against the Myanmar Military Junta

Myanmar

February 05, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Rescind Order to Use Force Against Protesters, Protect Basic Freedoms

Military junta arrests peaceful protesters of coup d’état, blocks Facebook

Myanmar

February 03, 2021

Film

Protesters Denounce Military Coup in Myanmar

Myanmar

February 02, 2021

Commentary

Rohingya refugees suffering mental distress

By Andrew Riley in Asia Times

Myanmar

February 02, 2021

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Myanmar to the ICC, Impose a Global Arms Embargo

Security Council due to meet Tuesday in response to Myanmar coup

Myanmar

February 01, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Release Government Officials and Human Rights Defenders Detained in Military Coup

State Counselor, President, and human rights defenders detained in nationwide raids

Myanmar

January 28, 2021

Profile

Myanmar Student Activist Continues the Fight for Peace and Democracy

Born and raised in Yangon, Aung Pyae Sone Phyoe became interested in improving the country’s educational system.

Myanmar

January 26, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges Against Ethnic-Rakhine Journalists, Ensure Freedom of Press

Military targets Rakhine journalists with criminal defamation complaints

Bangladesh

January 24, 2021

Profile

Rohingya Woman Challenges Gender Discrimination in Education

“Saima”—not her real name—founded an education program for refugee women and girls through two informal home-based programs as part of refugee-led efforts to try and fill the gaps.

Bangladesh

January 15, 2021

Film

Rohingya​ Houses Destroyed by a Fire in the Cox’ Bazar Refugee Camps

Myanmar

January 12, 2021

News Release

Myanmar: Free Student Activists Arbitrarily Detained for Peaceful Anti-War Protests

32 activists facing criminal charges in months-long government crackdown

Myanmar

January 06, 2021

Commentary

Why Joe Biden Should Help the Rohingya People of Myanmar

By Matthew Smith and Andrew Riley in Time

January 01, 2021

Report

Annual Report 2020

Others

December 15, 2020

Statement

Laos: After eight years, civil society worldwide demands the government establish and reveal Sombath’s fate and whereabouts

On the eighth anniversary of the enforced disappearance of Lao civil society leader Sombath Somphone, we, the undersigned organizations, reiterate our calls on the government of Laos to reveal his fate and whereabouts, and to investigate all allegations of enforced disappearances in the country to bring those responsible to justice in fair trials.

Myanmar

December 10, 2020

Report

“The Torture in My Mind”

The Right to Mental Health for Rohingya Survivors of Genocide in Myanmar and Bangladesh

Bangladesh, Myanmar

December 10, 2020

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: Rohingya Mental Health Crisis Demands Attention

New report reveals extreme rates of traumatic stress among Rohingya genocide survivors

Thailand

December 09, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Angele Anang

Malaysia, Myanmar

December 04, 2020

Profile

A Rohingya Woman Activist Overcomes Challenges and Inspires Others

As refugees, Rohingya continue to struggle with discrimination and mental health challenges.

Bangladesh

December 03, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Halt Relocation of Rohingya Refugees to Bhasan Char

Concerns of possible coercive and involuntary transfers

Thailand

December 02, 2020

Film

How has “the duck” become a hero for pro-democracy protesters in Thailand?

Thailand

November 26, 2020

Strengthening

Measuring the Impacts of Human Rights Work

In early November, Fortify Rights developed and led a workshop for the Refugee Rights Litigation Project (RRLP) in Bangkok, Thailand, aimed at helping them improve their internal monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL).

Myanmar

November 25, 2020

Film

Election Sorrow I ရွေးကောက်ပွဲ အလွမ်း

Thailand

November 25, 2020

Statement

Statement by International NGOs on Pro-Democracy Protests on November 17 and 25, 2020

We, the undersigned organizations, condemn the Thai police’s unnecessary and excessive use of force against peaceful protesters marching to the national parliament in Bangkok on November 17, 2020.

Myanmar

November 25, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Hold By-Elections and Ensure Right to Vote for All

Millions denied right to vote under discriminatory laws, cancelled elections

November 24, 2020

News Release

Refugee “Instagrammers” Win Prestigious Social-Media Award

Three Rohingya refugees, Fortify Rights, and Doha Debates win Shorty Award

Thailand

November 23, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Drop Lawsuit by Chicken Company Against Three Women Human Rights Defenders

Preliminary hearings in combined criminal defamation case begin today

Myanmar

November 23, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: End Prosecutions of Peaceful Protesters, Free Political Prisoners 

10 human rights organizations call for the release of peaceful protesters

Thailand

November 18, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Protect Protesters, Facilitate the Right to Peaceful Assembly

Dozens injured during protests outside parliament building in Bangkok yesterday

Bangladesh

November 12, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Free Rohingya Refugees Detained on Isolated Island

Five international human rights organizations request access to Bhasan Char

Bangladesh

November 12, 2020

Letter

Joint Letter to The Honorable Foreign Secretary Mr. Masud Bin Momen

Re: Request for the Cooperation of the Government of Bangladesh to Facilitate a Visit for Human Rights Groups to Bhasan Char Island

Myanmar

November 09, 2020

News Release

International Community: Condemn Mass Disenfranchisement and Irregularities in Myanmar’s Elections

Elections held yesterday in Myanmar unfree and unfair

Bangladesh

November 07, 2020

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugee Photographer and Videographer in the Spotlight

On November 7, Asia Times published a photo essay by Abdullah, a Rohingya refugee photographer and videographer.

Thailand

November 03, 2020

Film

Thai Activists Released From Detention

Bangladesh

October 29, 2020

Profile

Bangladesh: Rohingya Refugee Encourages Everyone to Express Their Feelings

Jasim Arkani joined a team of Rohingya researchers working with Fortify Rights to document mental harm.

Myanmar

October 28, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure the Right to Vote Ahead of Elections

Myanmar-based civil society groups call on government to uphold right to vote, including for Rohingya

Thailand

October 26, 2020

Statement

Thailand: End harassment of Suchanee Cloitre, human rights defenders

Baseless criminal defamation cases undercut labor rights protections

Myanmar

October 26, 2020

Profile

Myanmar Activist Turns Distress into Poetry

Today, Maung Saungkha works primarily through an organization he co-founded—Athan, which means “voice” in Burmese.

Thailand

October 23, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Protect Protest Rights, Drop Charges Against Activists

Government lifts “severe state of emergency” following mass demonstrations

Myanmar

October 23, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Comply with World-Court Orders, End Ongoing Atrocities

Thailand

October 23, 2020

Film

Drop Charges Against Thai Activists

Myanmar

October 23, 2020

Film

What is International Accountability for Atrocity Crimes? (Rohingya)

Myanmar

October 23, 2020

Film

What is International Accountability for Atrocity Crimes?

Bangladesh, Myanmar

October 21, 2020

News Release, Letter

Donor Governments: Recognize Crimes Against Rohingya as Genocide

Governments convene to raise US$1 billion for Rohingya relief

Bangladesh, Myanmar

October 21, 2020

Letter

Joint Letter to The Honorable Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State

Dear Secretary Pompeo, we write to you as 35 organizations deeply concerned about the plight of the Rohingya people.

Myanmar

October 20, 2020

Commentary

Myanmar Elections Set to Exacerbate Erasure of the Rohingya Identity

By John Quinley and Kyaw Win in The Diplomat

Myanmar

October 19, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: End Crackdown on Human Rights Defenders, Free Political Prisoners 

15 anti-war protesters arrested, some sentenced to five years in prison, many in hiding

Thailand

October 16, 2020

Film

Thai Protesters Call for Democracy

Myanmar

October 15, 2020

Profile

Kachin Nurse-Aid Helps Landmine Survivors in Myanmar

(YANGON, October 15, 2020)—Nine years after war reignited between the Myanmar Army and the Kachin Independence Army in 2011, more than 106,000 civilians remain forcibly displaced and fighting continues to affect local communities.

Bangladesh

October 12, 2020

Strengthening

Rohingya Refugees Tell Their Own Stories

Three Rohingya refugee Media Fellows at Fortify Rights have been documenting life inside the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.

Thailand

October 10, 2020

Profile

A Thai Activist Shares the Importance of Self-Help.

Bangladesh

October 09, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Remove Fencing That Confines Rohingya to Refugee Camps

Thailand

September 29, 2020

Strengthening

Advancing Refugee Rights in the Digital Age

Fortify Rights hosted a two-day workshop in Bangkok for refugee rights defenders in Thailand under the Coalition for the Rights of Refugees and Stateless Persons (CRSP).

Thailand

September 29, 2020

Film

Advancing Refugee Rights in the Digital Age

Malaysia

September 21, 2020

Film

Malaysian Authorities must release Inquiry Report on Mass Graves and Trafficked Rohingya

Malaysia

September 16, 2020

News Release

Malaysia: Release Inquiry Report on Mass Graves and Trafficked Rohingya, Ensure Accountability 

One year on, Royal Commission of Inquiry report remains unpublished

Myanmar

September 08, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Release Imprisoned Ethnic-Karen Activists 

Court sentences three human rights defenders to 15 days in prison for peaceful assembly

Myanmar

September 08, 2020

News Release

International Criminal Court: Prosecute and Offer Witness Protection to Myanmar Army Deserters

Two Myanmar Army soldiers now in ICC custody in The Hague

Myanmar

September 04, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Reverse Conviction of Activist Poet, Uphold Right to Freedom of Expression 

Court fines Maung Saungkha for holding peaceful protest

Myanmar

September 03, 2020

Film

Rohingya Groups demand their Right to Vote

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 03, 2020

Letter

RE: The Union Election Commission should recognize the voting rights of Rohingya refugees in the November 8 general election in Myanmar

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 03, 2020

News Release, Letter

Myanmar/Bangladesh: Ensure All Rohingya Can Vote in 2020 Elections

14 Rohingya-led refugee organizations call on the Union Election Commission for the right to vote

Myanmar

September 03, 2020

Commentary

Election candidates must pledge to amend the Peaceful Assembly Law

By Nickey Diamond and Jacob Bogart in Frontier Myanmar

Myanmar

September 03, 2020

Strengthening

Refugees Organize for the Right to Vote in Myanmar

Myanmar

September 02, 2020

Statement

Myanmar: Drop Charge Against Activist Poet

Lift Internet Ban; Quash Cases Against Students Protesting Shutdown

Myanmar

September 01, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: End Judicial Harassment of Ethnic-Karen Activists 

Trial of human rights defenders scheduled to begin today

Myanmar

August 31, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Reverse Decision to Bar Rohingya from Elections

Final list of candidates excludes Rohingya

Others

August 21, 2020

News Release

Fortify Rights Names New Regional Director

Ismail Wolff brings decades of experience

Myanmar

August 19, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Prevent Exclusion of Rohingya Candidates from National Elections

Election Commission rejects six Rohingya candidates

Bangladesh

August 19, 2020

Commentary

Rohingya cry for justice deserves to be heard

By John Quinley III in the Financial Times

Thailand

August 18, 2020

News Release

Thailand: End Chicken Company’s Judicial Harassment of Women Human Rights Defenders

Court combines two defamation complaints brought by Thammakaset

Myanmar

August 18, 2020

Commentary

Facebook Wanted to Be a Force for Good in Myanmar. Now It Is Rejecting a Request to Help With a Genocide Investigation

By Matthew Smith in Time

Myanmar

August 13, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Criminal Complaints Against Organizers of Karen Martyrs’ Day Ceremony

Two ethnic-Karen activists charged under peaceful assembly law

Myanmar

August 12, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Rohingya Participation in Elections  

Election commission rejects Rohingya candidate

Thailand

August 11, 2020

Film

Pro-democracy #FreeYouth activists in Thailand🇹🇭 call for political reform

Thailand

August 07, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Suthasinee Kaewleklai

Bangladesh

August 05, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Free Rohingya Refugees Detained on Bhasan Char Island

Detainees report severe restrictions on movement, suicidal ideations, and death threats

Thailand

August 05, 2020

Strengthening

Strengthening Refugee Protection in Thailand

Fortify Rights partnered with Host International to train Thai police and immigration officers on case management for child refugees.

Thailand

August 03, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Drop Case against Angkhana Neelapaijit and other Women Human Rights Defenders

Court set to consider case on August 4

Myanmar

July 30, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Release Imprisoned Rakhine/Arakanese Student Leaders

Lift internet blackout, protect freedom of expression

Myanmar

July 29, 2020

Commentary

Rohingya treatment a violation of human rights

By Puttanee Kangkun & John Quinley III in Bangkok Post

Myanmar

July 27, 2020

Commentary

For Myanmar’s Elections to Be Free and Fair Rohingya Must Get the Right to Vote

By Matthew Smith in Time

Myanmar

July 16, 2020

News Release, Letter

United States: Call Myanmar’s Crimes Genocide, Ensure Accountability 

Fifty-eight organizations call on U.S. to label crimes against Rohingya genocide

Myanmar

July 16, 2020

Letter

RE: Call It Genocide – Act for the Rohingya

58 Organizations Support Petition Urging Secretary Pompeo to Publicly Determine that Myanmar has Committed Genocide and Crimes against Humanity against the Rohingya People.

Myanmar

July 16, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Human Rights Defender Maung Saungkha 

New U.N. Special Rapporteur calls for protection of freedom of expression

Thailand

July 15, 2020

Film

คดีฟ้องปิดปากหรือ SLAPP คืออะไร

Thailand

July 15, 2020

Film

What are SLAPP suits?

Myanmar

July 10, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Voting Rights, Restore Citizenship Rights for Rohingya

National elections scheduled for November 8

Thailand

July 03, 2020

Strengthening

Webinar Series on Refugees in Thailand

Thailand

July 03, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Sor Rattanamanee Polkla (TH)

Thailand

June 29, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Sor Rattanamanee Polkla

Myanmar

June 25, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Abide by International Landmine Clearance Standards

Government announces plans for landmine clearance bodies

Malaysia

June 23, 2020

Film

Refugees in Malaysia barred from Selayang Market (ENG)

Malaysia

June 23, 2020

Film

Pelarian di Malaysia dilarang memasuki Pasar Selayang (MLY)

Malaysia

June 23, 2020

News Release

Malaysia: End Immigration Raids and Detention, Support Migrants and Refugees Amid COVID-19

Refugees describe struggle to survive during pandemic

Thailand

June 20, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Rohmad Ruengprat

Myanmar

June 11, 2020

Statement

Oppose Trump Administration Measures against the International Criminal Court

The undersigned organizations express their deep concern regarding today’s announcement by Secretary of State Pompeo and other senior U.S. officials that the United States, among other things, has invoked emergency powers in order to threaten asset freezes and other punitive actions against officials of the International Criminal Court, their family members, and those who assist their investigations.

Thailand

June 09, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Attacks on Free Expression by Businesses

Court acquits two human rights defenders of spurious charges brought by Thammakaset

Thailand

June 08, 2020

Letter

Open letter to the organizers of the ‘United Nations Virtual Forum on Business and Human Rights: New Challenges. New Approaches – Asia and the Pacific’ to be held on June 9 -11, 2020

Re: Ongoing situation of judicial harassment of women and men Human Rights Defenders (W/HRDs) in Thailand

Thailand

June 07, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Rohmad Ruengprat (TH)

Thailand

June 05, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Protect Rohingya Refugees from Forced Return, Indefinite Detention

Thailand threatens to return 35 Rohingya, including six women and 16 children, to Myanmar

Thailand

June 03, 2020

News Release

Thailand: End Judicial Harassment of Women Human Rights Defenders

Thai chicken company files new criminal complaints against prominent Thai women human rights defenders

Thailand

May 28, 2020

Commentary

Abuse of migrants, refugees counterproductive

By Puttanee Kangkun in Bangkok Post

Bangladesh

May 15, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Protect Refugees in COVID-19 Response, Suspend Use of Bhasan Char Island

First case of COVID-19 confirmed in Rohingya refugee camp

Myanmar

May 14, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Ban Landmines, Lift Travel Restrictions on Aid Groups

COVID-19 and longstanding restrictions on humanitarian aid hamper landmine-survivor support

Malaysia

May 11, 2020

Letter

Re: Violent Threats and ‘Hate Speech’ against Rohingya Community in Malaysia

Malaysia

May 11, 2020

News Release, Letter

Malaysia: End Violent Threats and Anti-Rohingya Campaign

84 organizations call on Malaysia to end discriminatory rhetoric against Rohingya refugees

Thailand

May 06, 2020

Film

Refugees come together during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Malaysia

May 06, 2020

Film

Immigration Raids in Malaysia

Thailand

May 01, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Release Detained Refugees and Migrants, Prevent Further Detentions Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

42 detainees in Songkhla Immigration Detention Center test positive for COVID-19

Bangladesh

April 30, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Prevent Push-Backs of Rohingya Refugees, Investigate and Prosecute Human Trafficking

Testimony reveals murder, beatings, and deprivations at sea

Bangladesh, Myanmar

April 26, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Patrick Brown

Myanmar

April 23, 2020

Report

“Our Demands are for All Students”

Violations of Students’ Rights in Mandalay, Myanmar,

Myanmar

April 23, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Provide Remedies for Former Political Prisoners, Protect Free Expression

New report exposes arbitrary detention and torture of university student activists

Thailand

April 21, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Dismiss Complaint, Prevent Spurious Defamation Cases by Thammakaset

Thai chicken company continues to target women human rights defenders

Myanmar

April 20, 2020

Film

Our Demands Are For All Students: Report Launch

Malaysia, Myanmar

April 17, 2020

Film

Rohingya Refugees Adrift At Sea

Malaysia

April 17, 2020

News Release

Malaysia: Deploy Search and Rescue for Rohingya Boats, Ensure Safe Disembarkation

Boats of Rohingya refugees reportedly adrift at sea

Thailand

April 15, 2020

Letter

Joint Letter to Thailand Department of Corrections Director-General Pol Col Naras Savestanan

Re: Take immediate steps to release prisoners and ensure the health and safety of all those in detention facilities

Malaysia

April 10, 2020

News Release

Malaysia: Minimize COVID-19 Risks to Refugees and Trafficking Survivors, Prevent Arbitrary Detention

Boat of more than 200 Rohingya refugees intercepted by Malaysian authorities

Bangladesh

April 02, 2020

News Release, Letter

Bangladesh: End Internet Blackout to Protect Public Health of Rohingya Refugees and Host Communities

50 organizations call for end to communication restrictions and fencing in Cox’s Bazar

Bangladesh

April 02, 2020

Letter

Re: Restrictions on Communication, Fencing, and COVID-19 in Cox’s Bazar District Rohingya Refugee Camps

Dear Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, As authorities around the world struggle to cope with the spread of COVID-19, it is crucial that States act to protect the most vulnerable, including refugee populations.

Thailand

April 02, 2020

Film

Using Virtual Reality For Refugee Awareness

Thailand

April 01, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Jirawut Uaesungkomsate

Bangladesh

March 31, 2020

Commentary

The internet crackdown in the Rohingya refugee camps is dangerous

By John Quinley in Dhaka Tribune

Thailand

March 31, 2020

Strengthening

Thai and Rohingya Human Rights Defenders in the News, Fighting COVID-19

P’Bik is the Coordinator of the Migrant Workers Rights Network, which is advocating for migrant workers’ rights in the age of COVID-19.

Thailand

March 30, 2020

Strengthening

A Refugee Freed in Thailand

Fortify Rights continues to provide refugees and their families with behind-the-scenes support, including practical advice on sensitive cases.

Myanmar

March 26, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Lift Internet Restrictions to Protect Public Health

Access to information necessary to prevent spread of COVID-19

Bangladesh

March 16, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Protect Rohingya Refugees and Host Communities from Coronavirus

Lift arbitrary restrictions on internet and mobile communications, cease fencing camps

Myanmar

March 06, 2020

Film

Unreleased Footage Of William Schabas on Myanmar Genocide [FULL]

Myanmar

March 06, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Previously Unpublished Interview with Myanmar Government Lawyer Details International Crimes Against Rohingya

Lawyer compares Myanmar treatment of Rohingya to Nazi Germany

Bangladesh

March 06, 2020

News Release

Bangladesh: Investigate Abductions, Protect Ethnic-Rohingya Christians

Rohingya Christians abducted and beaten, religious property destroyed

Myanmar

March 05, 2020

Film

Unreleased Footage Of William Schabas on Myanmar Genocide

Thailand

March 03, 2020

Strengthening

Supporting Targets of Judicial Harassment in Thailand

As part of Fortify Rights’ work to strengthen and support human rights defenders, the organization coordinated an opportunity for victims of judicial harassment in Thailand to meet and brief members of the diplomatic community in Bangkok.

Bangladesh

February 29, 2020

Strengthening

Building Bridges Between Rohingya Refugees and the Diaspora

Yasmin Ullah, a Rohingya activist and President of the Canada-based Rohingya Human Rights Network, traveled with Fortify Rights on her first visit to the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar District, Bangladesh.

Thailand

February 24, 2020

Strengthening

The Future of Trial Monitoring in Thailand

Fortify Rights partnered with Trial Watch, an initiative founded by the Clooney Foundation for Justice in April 2019, to enable law students from Thailand's Thammasat University to monitor trials in Thailand.

Thailand

February 17, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Drop Spurious Defamation Charges Against Human Rights Defenders

Preliminary hearings set for Angkhana Neelapaijit and Puttanee Kangkun

Thailand

February 17, 2020

Statement

Removal of Film Promoting Free Expression in Thailand

Today, Fortify Rights removed from its website and video-supporting platforms a short film entitled, “Drop Criminal Defamation Charges Against Migrant Workers,” published by the organization in October 2017.

Myanmar

February 13, 2020

Statement

Myanmar: Lift Internet Restrictions in Rakhine and Chin States

Mobile internet blackout in four townships in Rakhine State among the world’s longest running

Myanmar

February 13, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: End Internet Restrictions in Rakhine and Chin States

29 international and Myanmar-based organizations call for end to internet shutdown

Thailand

February 13, 2020

Strengthening

Building the Movement to End Child Detention in Thailand

Fortify Rights and local partners co-hosted a workshop in Bangkok to assess Thailand's performance in ending the detention of children by immigration authorities.

Myanmar

February 12, 2020

Commentary

Genocide’s straw man

By Matthew Smith in Mekong Review

Thailand

January 31, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Angkhana Neelapaijit

Thailand

January 31, 2020

Film

Protect Refugees in Thailand – Angkhana Neelapaijit

Thailand

January 29, 2020

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Fortify Rights Senior Human Rights Specialist Puttanee Kangkun

Thai authorities or Thai poultry company Thammakaset Company Limited should immediately drop criminal defamation complaints against Puttanee Kangkun and other human rights defenders, Fortify Rights said today.

Others

January 27, 2020

Film

Fortify Rights in 1-minute

Thailand

January 27, 2020

Film

Protect Refugees in Thailand – Sakda Kaewbuadee

Thailand

January 24, 2020

Film

Everyday Rights: Sakda Kaewbuadee

Myanmar

January 23, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: Protect Rohingya, Comply with ICJ Provisional Measures

In historic move, World Court orders Myanmar to prevent genocide against Rohingya

Malaysia, Myanmar

January 21, 2020

Statement, Strengthening

Rohingya Women Call for Justice, Solidarity, and Peace in Myanmar

Rohingya women organize while Myanmar faces genocide charges at the ICJ

Myanmar

January 16, 2020

News Release

Myanmar: New Evidence of Denial of Rohingya Citizenship

Internal government documents reveal ongoing campaign

January 01, 2020

Report

Annual Report 2019

Myanmar

December 19, 2019

Film

Aung San Suu Kyi Supporters At ICJ

Myanmar

December 11, 2019

Commentary

The American Antitrust Breakup of Facebook and the Dangers of China’s WeChat

By Michael Lwin and Matthew Smith in Georgetown Journal of International Affairs

Myanmar

December 11, 2019

Film

Rohingya Mass Solidarity Rally at ICJ

Myanmar

December 09, 2019

Film

Myanmar Arrests More Rohingya For Exercising Freedom Of Movement

Myanmar

December 09, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Free Rohingya Detained for Traveling Without Permission

New footage shows dozens of Rohingya men, women, children behind bars

Myanmar

December 07, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Ongoing Human Rights Violations Against Rohingya 

Child-slave labor, severe violations against Rohingya continue

Thailand

December 06, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Prevent Forced Return of Ethnic-Rakhine Family to Myanmar

Thai authorities threaten to return family of Arakan Army commander to Myanmar where they face persecution

Thailand

November 29, 2019

Film

The work of Angkhana Neelapaijit should be celebrated, not criminalized

Myanmar

November 27, 2019

Commentary

Elizabeth Warren’s plan to break up Facebook risks helping China

By Matthew Smith in Nikkei Asian Review

Thailand

November 26, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Former Human Rights Commissioner Angkhana Neelapaijit

Poultry company files new complaint against human rights defender, mediation scheduled for February 12, 2020.

Bangladesh, Myanmar

November 12, 2019

Letter

Re: Plans to Move Rohingya Refugees to Bhasan Char Island

Dear Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed: we, the 39 undersigned organizations, welcome the recent announcement on November 3 by the Bangladesh Minister of Disaster Management and Relief Enamur Rahman to put on hold plans to relocate Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char island and that any relocations would be voluntary...

Bangladesh

November 12, 2019

News Release, Letter

Bangladesh: Protect Rohingya Refugees, Make U.N. Assessment Available

U.N. assessment of Bhasan Char island scheduled to begin on November 17

Myanmar

November 11, 2019

News Release

U.N. Member States: Support Case on Myanmar Genocide at International Court of Justice

The Gambia files case against Myanmar for Rohingya genocide

Thailand

November 11, 2019

Statement

Thailand: Ensure New Refugee Regulation Meets International Standards

Cabinet expected to consider draft regulation to screen refugees before the end of this year

Thailand

November 11, 2019

News Release, Statement

Thailand: Ensure New Policies Protect Refugees

Government commits to creating refugee-screening mechanism

Myanmar

November 10, 2019

Film

လူမျိုးတုန်းသတ်ဖြတ်မှု၏ လက်နက်ကိရိယာများ – ဗီဒီယို အကျဉ်းချုပ်

Bangladesh

November 10, 2019

Film

Everyday Rights: Mr. Bangladesh

Thailand

October 30, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Ensure Accountability for Mass Trafficking of Rohingya, Provide Compensation for Survivors

Court to deliver verdict on appeals of Thailand's largest-ever human trafficking trial

Myanmar

October 28, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Release Arbitrarily Detained Karenni Human Rights Defenders

Trial of activists set to continue tomorrow

Bangladesh

October 25, 2019

News Release

Bangladesh: Halt Plans to Relocate Rohingya Refugees to Isolated Island

Testimonies indicate relocations slated for next month would be involuntary

Myanmar

October 23, 2019

Commentary

The roots of Myanmar’s Rohingya crisis

By John Quinley III in The Daily Star

Myanmar

October 11, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Complaint Against Six Rakhine Protesters

Five protesters in hiding, trial set to continue October 24

Thailand

September 29, 2019

Strengthening

A Leading Light: Angkhana Neelapaijit

Fortify Rights hosted a reception celebrating Angkhana Neelapaijit on receiving the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award 2019.

Myanmar

September 18, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Release Detained Kachin Human Rights Defender, Protect Speech and Assembly Rights

Anti-war protesters face arbitrary arrest and detention

Thailand

September 17, 2019

Profile

Thailand Human Rights Defender: Ngamsuk Ruttanasatain

Meet Ngamsuk Ruttanasatain (Lek), a 51-year-old Thai human rights defender who is currently a lecturer at Mahidol University’s Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies (IHRP) in Bangkok, Thailand.

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 13, 2019

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: End Internet Blackouts in Rakhine State, Rohingya Refugee Camps

Bangladesh suspends internet access for refugees, internet restrictions continue in parts of Myanmar

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 03, 2019

Report

“Tools of Genocide”

National Verification Cards and the Denial of Citizenship of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 03, 2019

Film

Tools of Genocide: Video Summary

Myanmar

September 03, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: End Campaign to Deny Rohingya Citizenship and Erase Identity

Fortify Rights’ latest 102-page report exposes new details on root of Rohingya crisis

Myanmar

September 03, 2019

Letter

To Secretary-General of the United Nations on the Rosenthal Report

Re: Rosenthal Report

Cambodia

August 30, 2019

Letter

To Members and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council

UN Human Rights Council should address human rights crisis in Cambodia at its 42nd session

Others

August 28, 2019

News Release

Fortify Rights CEO Receives Fellowship at Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard Kennedy School

The Carr Center combines theory, policy, and practice to address the most entrenched and complex problems facing societies around the world.

Bangladesh, Myanmar

August 21, 2019

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: Prevent Forced Returns, Protect Rohingya Refugees

“Repatriation” scheduled to begin August 22

Thailand

August 05, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Mahidol University Lecturer Ngamsuk Ruttanasatian

Poultry company continues assault on free expression in Thailand

Myanmar

July 22, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Lift Internet-Blackout in Rakhine and Chin States

Ensure access for aid groups and monitors

Myanmar

July 05, 2019

Film

Rakhine Buddhist Refugees Forced Back To Myanmar

India, Myanmar

July 05, 2019

News Release

India: Protect Refugees, Prevent Forced Returns

Video footage shows Indian security forces dragging Rakhine refugee

Thailand

June 28, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaint Against Human Rights Defender and Lecturer Ngamsuk Ruttanasatain

Court to consider complaint by Thammakaset Company Limited on July 1, 2019

Myanmar

June 28, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Release 15 Arbitrarily Detained Muslim-Wedding Guests

Government released four members of a Muslim-wedding party imprisoned since 2014

Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand

June 12, 2019

Film

Prevent Detention of Rohingya Refugees

Thailand

June 12, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Prevent the Detention of Rohingya Refugees and Survivors of Human Trafficking

Boat of 65 Rohingya refugees landed in Thailand yesterday

Malaysia

June 09, 2019

Commentary

Will Malaysia finally address the human trafficking of Rohingya?

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Star

Myanmar

June 04, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Protect Civilians Trapped in Armed Conflict in Rakhine State, Ensure Humanitarian Access

Civilians, including children, killed and injured in armed conflict

Others

May 27, 2019

News Release

Fortify Rights Names Three New Board Members

Saman Zia-Zarifi, Sanjula Weerasinghe, and an ethnic leader from Myanmar join the organization

Thailand

May 23, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Drop Charges Brought by Thammakaset Company Against Human Rights Defenders

Bangkok Criminal Court to begin trial tomorrow

Myanmar

May 21, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Case Against Rakhine Journalist Aung Marm Oo

Repeal Unlawful Associations Act, protect freedom of expression and association

Malaysia, Myanmar

April 10, 2019

Statement

“We are Real, We Exist, and Our Voices Should be heard.”

Rohingya women organize for change

Bangladesh, Malaysia, Myanmar

March 27, 2019

Report

“Sold Like Fish”

Crimes Against Humanity, Mass Graves, and Human Trafficking from Myanmar and Bangladesh to Malaysia from 2012 to 2015

Malaysia

March 27, 2019

News Release

Malaysia: Ensure Accountability for Mass Graves, Human Trafficking Atrocities Against Rohingya

Report finds trafficking syndicate committed crimes against humanity

Myanmar

March 25, 2019

Letter

Letter to the UN Secretary General calling for an open and transparent review of UN operations in Myanmar

"We write to welcome your initiative to review United Nations operations in Myanmar, and to strongly urge you ensure that the review is open, transparent and that its findings and recommendations are made public."

Myanmar

March 18, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Cooperate with ICC and Independent Mechanism on Accountability for Atrocities

Myanmar military announces “investigative court” to “scrutinize” allegations of human rights violations in Rakhine State

Myanmar

March 14, 2019

News Release

ARSA: End Abductions, Torture, Threats Against Rohingya Refugees and Women Aid Workers

Militants should protect the right to freedom of expression

Thailand

March 12, 2019

News Release

Thailand: End Judicial Harassment of Human Rights Defenders Nan Win and Sutharee Wannasiri

Thai court confirms criminal defamation charges against Nan Win

Myanmar

March 07, 2019

Statement

Myanmar Authorities Must drop the Case Against Ko Swe Win and Decriminalise Defamation

On the second anniversary of the defamation charges brought upon Ko Swe Win, editor at online newspaper Myanmar Now, we, the undersigned 77 civil society organisations, call on the relevant authorities to drop the case against him...

Malaysia

February 21, 2019

News Release

Malaysia: End Child Marriage, Protect Rohingya Refugee Girls

Rohingya refugee girls describe forced marriage and slave-like conditions

Myanmar

February 15, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Free Seven University Students in Mandalay

University students sentenced to hard labor for peaceful protest

Thailand

February 14, 2019

Letter

Re: New Lawsuits Brought by Thammakaset Company Limited Against Human Rights Defenders

"We respectfully urge the Thai government to take immediate action to oppose and seek the dismissal of cases filed by Thammakaset that run counter to your government’s proclaimed policy to support business and human rights as well as Thailand’s interests, legal obligations, and international human rights law commitments."

Bangladesh, Myanmar

February 14, 2019

Commentary

The Rohingya Diaspora Is Crucial to Achieving Justice in Myanmar

By John Quinley III in TIME

Thailand

February 14, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Protect Human Rights Defenders From Spurious Legal Action

89 organizations worldwide ask Thai Prime Minister to address judicial harassment

Myanmar

February 13, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: Protect Peaceful Protesters in Karenni State

Police fired rubber bullets, tear gas at protesters

Myanmar

February 08, 2019

News Release

Myanmar: End Crackdown, Drop Charges Against 82 Activists in Karenni State

Ensure rights to freedom of assembly and expression

Thailand

February 05, 2019

Commentary

A first step to protect children on the move in Thailand

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation

Thailand

February 04, 2019

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaints Against Human Rights Defender Nan Win

Worker who exposed abuses to appear in court today

Bangladesh, India

January 24, 2019

News Release

India: Protect Rohingya Refugees, Prevent Forced Returns

Authorities threaten refugees with forced return to Myanmar

Thailand

January 23, 2019

Letter

Civil Society Amplifies Need for Immediate Release of Recognised Refugee Hakeem al-Araibi

To Prime Minister Prayut Chan-Ocha: Your Excellency, We the undersigned organisations write to you to express our deepest concerns regarding the continued detention of Bahraini footballer Hakeem al-Araibi. This letter builds upon previous correspondence from numerous organisations, human rights institutions, personalities and concerned citizens from around the world.

Thailand

January 21, 2019

News Release, Statement

Thailand: End Detention of Refugees and Reunite Families

Deputy Prime Minister Signs Agreement to Prevent Detention of Children

Thailand

January 21, 2019

Statement

On the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Determination of Measures and Approaches Alternative to Detention of Children in Immigration Detention Centers

Thailand edges closer to respecting refugee and migrant rights with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) ending the detention of refugee and migrant children

Malaysia

January 14, 2019

News Release

Malaysian Government Appoints Eric Paulsen to Senior Human Rights Post

Fortify Rights Legal Director named Malaysia’s Representative to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights

Malaysia

January 06, 2019

Commentary

Take freedom of speech seriously

By Eric Paulsen in The Star

January 01, 2019

Report

Annual Report 2018

Fortify Rights receives the Roger E. Joseph Prize, an annual award recognizing “exceptional individuals and institutions” for their “lasting contribution to the causes of human rights.” We produce 94 publications, including six full-length reports. We engage more than 110 people with power, and our work receives coverage in more than 2,199 media articles. We also facilitate 80 strengthening activities with partners.

Malaysia

December 23, 2018

Commentary

‘Fake news’ cannot be resolved with a legislative sledgehammer

By Eric Paulsen in The Star

Malaysia

December 17, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: End hate crimes against LGBTI persons, hold perpetrators accountable

Hate-crime legislation would protect LGBTI persons and aid accountability

Myanmar, United States

December 17, 2018

News Release

United States: Ensure U.N. Security Council Refers Myanmar to the ICC

23 Rohingya groups worldwide call on the U.S. government to push for international accountability for genocide

Myanmar, United States

December 13, 2018

Commentary

The United States has a chance to help the victims of genocide in Myanmar

By Matthew Smith in The Washington Post

Myanmar

December 11, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Free Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, Protect Media Freedom

One-year anniversary of the arbitrary detention of Reuters journalists

Myanmar

December 10, 2018

Film

Free Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo

Bangladesh

December 10, 2018

Film

Mr. Bangladesh – Fortify Rights Film

Malaysia

December 06, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Ensure Law Amendments Fully Protect University Students’ Fundamental Rights

Education Minister proposes more political freedoms on campuses

Thailand

December 03, 2018

Statement

Thailand: Drop Defamation Complaints Against Rights Defenders

Court scheduled to consider new complaints on December 3

Thailand

December 03, 2018

News Release, Statement

Thailand: 16 Groups Call for End to Reprisals Against Rights Defenders

Bangkok court to consider new criminal defamation complaints today

Malaysia

November 29, 2018

Commentary

On Icerd, Article 153 and resetting race relations and discrimination

By Eric Paulsen in Malaysiakini

Thailand

November 28, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Complaints Against Human Rights Defenders Sutharee Wannasiri and Nan Win

Protect human rights defenders from judicial harassment

Malaysia

November 14, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Abolish Capital Punishment, Deterrence Argument Unfounded

Prime Minister’s Department Minister for Law pledges to abolish death penalty

Bangladesh, Myanmar

November 12, 2018

News Release

Bangladesh: Protect Rohingya Refugees, End Threats and Intimidation

Refugees fear forced returns to Myanmar amidst threats, physical assault

Thailand

November 05, 2018

News Release

Thailand: End Child Detention, Protect All Children

National Human Rights Commission of Thailand releases findings on death of Rohingya refugee girl in detention

Malaysia, Thailand

October 24, 2018

News Release

Governments: Ensure Protection for Rohingya Refugees and Human-Trafficking Survivors

New research documents Rohingya on-the-move and exploitation

Bangladesh, Malaysia, Myanmar

October 24, 2018

Commentary

Mass atrocities and human trafficking: Rohingya Muslims on the move

By Puttanee Kangkun and John Quinley III in Humanitarian Exchange Magazine

Bangladesh, Myanmar

October 17, 2018

Commentary

“We won’t go”: The Rohingya are not willing to move to an isolated island

By John Quinley III in The Dhaka Tribune

Myanmar

October 12, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges Against Eleven Media Journalists

Uphold freedom of expression, decriminalize defamation

Thailand

October 12, 2018

News Release

Thailand: End Raids and Arbitrary Detention of Refugees

More than 200 refugees arrested in two months, Deputy Prime Minister orders deportation of migrants

Malaysia

October 05, 2018

Commentary

When will our varsities be free of AUKU?

By Henry Koh in Malaysiakini

Malaysia

October 04, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Amend Law to Protect University Students’ Rights

Education Minister vows to abolish controversial restrictions

Thailand

October 02, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Protect Environmental Defenders, Ensure Remedies

New report reveals decade of violations against environmental defenders in Loei Province

Thailand

October 02, 2018

Film

“We Fight To Protect Our Home”: Reprisals Against Environmental Defenders in Loei Province, Thailand

Thailand

October 02, 2018

Report

“We Fight To Protect Our Home”

Reprisals Against Environmental Defenders in Loei Province, Thailand

Thailand

September 28, 2018

Statement

Joint Civil Society Statement concerning Implementation of the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930

Almost 40 years ago, Thailand ratified the Forced Labour Convention, designed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to eradicate all forms of slavery and forced labour. And less than four months ago, it ratified its recent update – the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention (P29) – which requires ratifying states must provide protection and compensation to victims of forced labour, and suitably sanction its perpetrators.

Bangladesh, Myanmar

September 27, 2018

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: Video Provides Evidence of Crimes Against Rohingya in Myanmar

U.N. Security Council should urgently refer Myanmar to International Criminal Court

Myanmar

September 27, 2018

Film

Myanmar: Video Provides Evidence of Crimes Against Rohingya

Bangladesh

September 26, 2018

News Release

Bangladesh: Scrap Plan to Relocate Rohingya Refugees to Isolated Island

Prime Minister to address U.N. General Assembly today

Thailand

September 24, 2018

Commentary

Life in limbo for Thailand’s urban refugees

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation

Myanmar

September 21, 2018

Commentary

Facebook Waking Up to Genocide in Myanmar

By Eric Paulse in The Diplomat

Myanmar

September 07, 2018

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Myanmar to the International Criminal Court

Historic decision grants court jurisdiction over forced deportation

Myanmar

September 04, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Immediately and Unconditionally Release Reuters Journalists

83 civil society organizations in Myanmar call for release of journalists and accountability

Myanmar

September 03, 2018

Statement

Release Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, Protect Media Freedom, Promote Accountability

Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were sentenced to seven years in prison by Yangon Region Northern District Court today. We strongly condemn the punishment of these two individuals for simply doing their jobs as journalists.

Myanmar

August 31, 2018

Commentary

How China Supports the Slow Strangulation of Myanmar’s Kachin Minority

By David Baulk in TIME

Bangladesh, Myanmar

August 30, 2018

Commentary

Broken cell phones could be the key to justice for the Rohingya

By Taimoor Sobhan in CNN

Myanmar

August 30, 2018

Report

“They Block Everything”

Avoidable Deprivations in Humanitarian Aid to Ethnic Civilians Displaced by War in Kachin State, Myanmar

Myanmar

August 30, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: End Restrictions on Humanitarian Aid in War-torn Kachin State

New report reveals how government obstructed aid to displaced Kachin since 2011

Myanmar

August 29, 2018

Film

They Block Everything

Bangladesh, Myanmar

August 27, 2018

Commentary

The Rohingya are More Than Victims

By John Quinley III in Asia Times

Bangladesh, Myanmar

August 27, 2018

Film

Inside the Rohingya Crisis: Capturing Their Genocide on Cellphones

Myanmar

August 27, 2018

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Myanmar to International Criminal Court

Independent U.N. Mission finds Myanmar committed atrocities against Kachin, Rohingya, Shan

Malaysia

August 24, 2018

Commentary

One Year On, Malaysia Must Break Global Gridlock in Rohingya Crisis

By Eric Paulsen in Malaysiakini

Thailand

August 18, 2018

Statement

Civil Society Statement Concerning Ratification of the Work in Fishing Convention

Fishing workers, through the very nature of their work, are especially vulnerable to human trafficking as well as forced, bonded and slave labour, operating as they do in isolated and hazardous conditions. To protect this vulnerable group, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has established basic standards of decent work in the fishing industry.

Malaysia

August 02, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Drop Sedition Charges and Dismiss Investigations Against Activists

Repeal the Sedition Act, protect the freedom of expression

Thailand

July 31, 2018

Report

Thailand: Follow-up Submission to the U.N.Human Rights Committee on Thailand’s Compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

Fortify Rights welcomes the opportunity to provide input to the United Nations Human Rights Committee with regard to the Government of Thailand’s compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Thailand

July 31, 2018

News Release, Statement

Thailand: Fulfill Human Rights Obligations Under Treaty Law

Thailand submits progress report to U.N. on compliance with civil and political rights

Malaysia

July 23, 2018

Commentary

The Sun Has Set on Victorian-era Laws

By Eric Paulsen in The Sun Daily

Myanmar

July 19, 2018

Report

“They Gave Them Long Swords”

Preparations for Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity Against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, Myanmar

Myanmar

July 19, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: International Accountability Needed for Military-Planned Genocide Against Rohingya

Report finds “reasonable grounds” for ICC arrest warrants, identifies 22 military and police officials

Thailand

July 10, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Protect Rights of 14 Myanmar Workers, Dismiss Criminal Defamation Charges

Court verdict expected tomorrow on freedom of expression case

Myanmar

July 09, 2018

Letter

To the Senate and House Armed Services Committees

US Congress should adopt legislation to enhance targeted sanctions against Myanmar military commanders

Malaysia

July 02, 2018

Film

Malaysia: Student Voices

Malaysia

June 28, 2018

Report

“No Politics on Campus”

Violations of the Rights to Freedom of Expression, Peaceful Assembly, and Association Against University Students in Malaysia

Malaysia

June 28, 2018

Film

“No Politics On Campus”

Malaysia

June 28, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Amend Law to Protect University Students’ Rights to Expression, Peaceful Assembly, and Association

New report reveals decades-long state restrictions on speech, expression, assembly

Others

June 25, 2018

News Release

Fortify Rights Names New Legal Director

Fortify Rights today named prominent Malaysian human rights lawyer Eric Paulsen as the organization’s Legal Director. Mr. Paulsen will focus on various aspects of the organization’s human rights work in South and Southeast Asia.

Thailand

June 18, 2018

Statement

Thailand: Ensure Refugee Rights and Protections Through Refugee Regulation

End detention, forcible returns, and establish durable solutions

Thailand

June 07, 2018

Commentary

The resilience of Thai women land and environment defenders

By Sutharee Wannasiri in Asia Times

Thailand

June 04, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Charges against “People Go Network” Peaceful Protesters

Prosecutor expected to consider charges against protesters on Tuesday

Thailand

May 24, 2018

Commentary

Four years on, press freedom in Thailand a casualty of military coup

By Sutharee Wannasiri in Asia Times

Myanmar

May 24, 2018

Statement

Submission to CEDAW regarding Myanmar’s Exceptional Report on the Situation of Women and Girls from Northern Rakhine State

Human Rights Watch and Fortify Rights welcome the opportunity to provide joint input into the November 2017 request by the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) for an exceptional report from the Myanmar government on the situation of women and girls from northern Rakhine State.

Myanmar

May 24, 2018

News Release, Statement

Myanmar: Deadline to Report on Rape of Rohingya to UN

Committee Seeks Information on Rakhine State Atrocities Against Women, Girls

Malaysia

May 24, 2018

News Release

Malaysia: Repeal Sodomy Law that Led to Anwar Ibrahim’s Imprisonment

Momentous new government commits to repeal repressive laws

Malaysia

May 23, 2018

Letter

Open Letter to Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

Re: Human rights reforms under the new government

Malaysia

May 23, 2018

News Release, Letter

Malaysia: Fulfill Manifesto Promises on Human Rights Reforms

Re: Human rights reforms under the new government

Thailand

May 21, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Dismiss Criminal-Defamation Charges Against Thai PBS and Journalists

Criminal defamation trial against journalists resumes today

Myanmar

May 21, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Defamation Cases Against Kachin Anti-War Protest Organizers

Trial against three protesters continues today

Bangladesh, Myanmar

May 14, 2018

Film

Bangladesh: Monsoon Season Threatens Rohingya Refugees

Myanmar

May 13, 2018

Film

Myanmar: Anti-War Protest In Yangon (Burmese)

Myanmar

May 13, 2018

Film

Myanmar: Anti-War Protest In Yangon

Myanmar

May 12, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Criminal Charges Against Peaceful Anti-War Protesters

Multi-city protests call for civilian protection and end to conflict in Kachin State

Bangladesh

May 09, 2018

News Release

Bangladesh: Encourage ICC Investigation and Prosecution of Crimes Against Rohingya

ICC Pre-Trial Chamber invites feedback from Bangladesh on possible prosecution

Myanmar

May 08, 2018

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Myanmar to the International Criminal Court

Security Council concluded visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh on May 1

Others

May 06, 2018

News Release

Fortify Rights Receives 2018 Roger E. Joseph Prize

Organization honored today for its human rights work in Myanmar

Myanmar

April 19, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Account for Murder of Two Kachin Civilians

Surviving family member in hiding, facing prison after calling for investigation

Thailand

April 18, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Dismiss Charges Against Seven Women Environmental Defenders

Verdict expected tomorrow in peaceful assembly case

Malaysia

April 17, 2018

Commentary

The real news on Malaysia’s “fake news” law

By Henry Koh in Asia Times

Myanmar

April 17, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Two Kachin Religious Leaders Freed in Amnesty

Presidential amnesty frees 8,490 prisoners, political prisoners remain behind bars

Thailand

April 04, 2018

Report

Thailand: Submission to the United Nations Working Group on Human Rights and Transnational Corporations and other Business Enterprises

Read the Report (English and Thai)

Thailand

April 04, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Protect Human Rights Defenders Working on Business and Human Rights

U.N. Working Group on business and human rights concludes first official visit

Malaysia, Thailand

April 02, 2018

News Release

Thailand/Malaysia: Protect Rohingya Refugees, Urge ASEAN to Take Action

Thai authorities push Rohingya refugees back out to sea, putting lives at risk

Thailand

March 19, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Uphold Decision to Dismiss Criminal-Defamation Complaint against Thai PBS and Journalists

Appeal Court to issue ruling on rights-violating case against journalists tomorrow

Myanmar

February 22, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Rakhine Human Rights Defender Freed Today

Protect right to freedom of expression, free remaining political prisoners

Myanmar

February 20, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Whereabouts of Two Kachin Civilians Detained by Military

Civilians feared disappeared after being detained by military on January 31

Myanmar

February 13, 2018

News Release

U.N. Security Council: Refer Myanmar to the International Criminal Court

Pressure mounts as Security Council meets today to discuss Rohingya

Myanmar

February 12, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Justice for Assassination of U Ko Ni and Killing of U Nay Win

Court confirms murder charges against four defendants

Thailand

February 06, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Defamation Lawsuits against 14 Myanmar Workers

Trial set to begin tomorrow in Bangkok

Thailand

February 01, 2018

Film

ประเทศไทย ถอนข้อกล่าวหาอาญาต่อผู้ชุมนุมโดยสงบ

Thailand

February 01, 2018

Film

Thailand: Drop Criminal Charges Against Peaceful Protesters

Bangladesh, Myanmar

January 29, 2018

Commentary

Rohingya repatriation is premature and dangerous

By Matthew Smith in CNN

Bangladesh, Myanmar

January 22, 2018

Film

“No Man’s Land”

Myanmar

January 22, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Deadly Crackdown Against Rakhine Protesters in Mrauk-U

Survivors and eyewitnesses describe unlawful use of lethal force by police

Bangladesh, Myanmar

January 22, 2018

News Release

Myanmar/Bangladesh: Prevent Premature Repatriation, Ensure Rights for Rohingya

Repatriation set to begin January 23, new film highlights Rohingya voices

Myanmar

January 11, 2018

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges, Release Arbitrarily Detained Journalists

Two journalists face 14-year prison sentence, trial begins January 23

Myanmar

January 10, 2018

Film

Free Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo

Thailand

January 05, 2018

News Release

Thailand: Drop Complaint against Journalist Jamon Sonpednarin

Thai journalist faces up to five years in prison

January 01, 2018

Report

Annual Report 2017

We produce 84 publications, including two full-length reports. We engage 94 people with power, and our work receives coverage in more than 4,200 media articles. We also facilitate 54 strengthening activities with partners.

Myanmar

December 14, 2017

Myanmar: Release Wrongfully Arrested Journalists, Protect Press Freedoms

Two Reuters journalists arrested in mounting crackdown on media

Malaysia

December 13, 2017

Commentary

Hate crimes against trans people in Malaysia: A silent radicalisation?

By Henry Koh in The Malay Mail

Myanmar

December 12, 2017

Statement

Appeal to the UN Security Council to Act on Myanmar’s Rohingya Crisis

...We, a global coalition of 81 human rights, faith-based and humanitarian organizations, urgently call on the Council to take immediate action to address the campaign of ethnic cleansing and mass atrocity crimes, including crimes against humanity, committed against the ethnic Rohingya population by Myanmar’s security forces in northern Rakhine State...

Malaysia

November 19, 2017

Commentary

Critical voices silenced across Southeast Asia

By Sutharee Wannasiri, Nickey Diamond, and Henry Koh in Asia Times

Myanmar

November 15, 2017

News Release

New Report: Mounting Evidence of Genocide of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar

International cooperation needed to halt killing and seek justice

Myanmar

November 15, 2017

Report

“They Tried to Kill Us All”: Atrocity Crimes against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, Myanmar

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and Fortify Rights

Myanmar

November 14, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Criminal Defamation Charges Against Kachin Activist

Decriminalize defamation laws, uphold right to freedom of expression

Thailand

November 10, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Investigate Death of Rohingya Girl in Immigration Detention Center

16-Year-old Rohingya Girl Dies After Three Years in Thai Detention

Myanmar

November 07, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Release 14-Year-Old Ethnic Ta’ang Boy Wrongfully Convicted, Allegedly Tortured

Investigate alleged torture, repeal Unlawful Associations Act

Myanmar

November 06, 2017

Statement

Violence in Rakhine State, Myanmar

Submission to the U.K. Parliament International Development Committee Inquiry

Thailand

November 06, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Release Asylum Seekers Detained in Raids Last Week

“Black Halloween” crackdown and other raids result in arrest of 19 children

Myanmar, United States

November 02, 2017

Letter

To U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Regarding Burma and Targeted Sanctions

Re: Burma and Targeted Sanctions Dear Secretaries Tillerson and Mnuchin, The US government urgently needs to act to help address the grave human rights and humanitarian crisis that has resulted from the Burmese military’s brutal response to the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA)’s August 25 attack on government posts in Burma’s Rakhine State.

Myanmar

October 31, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Stop Using Landmines, Ratify 1997 Mine Ban Treaty

Landmine casualties mount, two recent deaths in Shan State

Myanmar

October 27, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: End Judicial Harassment of Swe Win, Drop Charges

Decision today extended pre-trial bail of journalist Swe Win, next hearing Monday

Myanmar

October 27, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Case Against Kachin Religious Leaders

Verdict Expected on Dubious Unlawful Association, Defamation Charges

Myanmar

October 25, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Citizens Against Extremism

Myanmar

October 24, 2017

Commentary

Myanmar’s Attempt to Destroy Rohingya Muslims

By Matthew Smith in TIME

Bangladesh, Myanmar

October 23, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Rohingya Still Face Perilous Journey

Thailand

October 20, 2017

Commentary

Regardless what we call attacks on Rohingya, protection must be prioritised

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation

Myanmar

October 17, 2017

Commentary

The Refugee Crisis Ravaging Southeast Asia: On The Ground With The Rohingya

By Amy Smith and Matthew Smith in Forbes

Myanmar

October 16, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Rohingya Muslims Flee Across Mayu Mountains

Myanmar

October 13, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Arson Campaign Continues In Rakhine State

Myanmar

October 11, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Free Khaing Myo Htun, Uphold Right to Freedom of Expression

Verdict expected tomorrow in human rights defender case

Thailand, United States

October 02, 2017

News Release

United States: Prioritize Human Rights in Thailand

U.S. President Donald Trump should urge Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to meet human rights obligations

Myanmar

September 28, 2017

News Release

United Nations: Act Now to End and Remedy Crimes Against Humanity in Myanmar

U.N. Secretary General to brief Security Council today, 88 organizations call for arms embargo, sanctions on Myanmar

Myanmar

September 27, 2017

Statement

UN member states should act to pressure Myanmar to end crimes against humanity

We, a global coalition of 88 civil society organizations, urgently call upon UN member states to take immediate steps to address the human rights abuses and humanitarian catastrophe engulfing Myanmar’s ethnic Rohingya population.

Thailand

September 26, 2017

Letter

To Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha

Re: protecting new rohingya refugee arrivals and engaging with the Myanmar military on ending attacks in Rakhine

Thailand

September 26, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Urge Myanmar to End Attacks on Rohingya Civilians

Letter to Prime Minister Prayut recommends Thailand protect potential new refugee arrivals

Thailand

September 19, 2017

Letter

To Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha

Re: Criminal Defamation Complaints Brought against Myanmar Migrant Workers and Labor Rights Advocate.

Thailand

September 19, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Protect Migrant Workers and Labor Right Activist

87 civil society groups, businesses, parliamentarians urge Thai Prime Minister to protect freedom of expression and labor rights

Myanmar

September 01, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: End Attacks in Rakhine State, Protect Civilians

Massive refugee-influx expected in Bangladesh as Muslim villages burn

Myanmar

August 24, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Implement Recommendations of Kofi Annan-led Commission

Abolish restrictions and ensure accountability, cooperate with U.N. Fact Finders

Malaysia

August 17, 2017

Film

Malaysia: Refugees Face Uncertain Future

Malaysia

August 16, 2017

News Release

Malaysia: Drop Censorship of Documentary Films on Human Trafficking and Refugees

Immediately repeal Film Censorship Act

Myanmar

August 07, 2017

Commentary

Getting it Right: A response to “Death, Lies and Videotape”

By Matthew Smith and Amy Smith in Tea Circle

Myanmar

July 31, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Free Journalist Swe Win

Myanmar

July 31, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Immediately Drop Charges Against Journalist Swe Win

Fifth journalist detained in the country in two months

Myanmar

July 30, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Torture, Death of Ethnic Ta’ang Civilians in Shan State

Free Detained Journalists, Ensure Accountability

Myanmar

July 25, 2017

Film

Free Wrongfully Detained Kachin Christian Leaders

Myanmar

July 25, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Free Wrongfully Detained Kachin Christian Leaders

Trial Slated for July 26

Myanmar

July 24, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Free Khaing Myo Htun

Thailand

July 24, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Drop Charges, Protect Environmental Defenders

Local residents face five to ten years in prison for peaceful assemblies

Myanmar

July 24, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Free Khaing Myo Htun, Protect Free Speech

One-year anniversary of arbitrary detention of rights-defender

Thailand

July 24, 2017

Film

Thai Environmental Defenders Face Prison

Thailand

July 20, 2017

Film

Thailand Trafficking Trial Closes, Questions Remain

Thailand

July 20, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Government Officials Convicted of Human Trafficking, Organized Crime

Verdicts delivered in Thailand’s largest human trafficking trial

Thailand

July 18, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Ensure Human Traffickers are Held Accountable

Verdict expected tomorrow in Thailand’s largest-ever human trafficking trial

Myanmar

July 17, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Trumped-Up Charges Against Human Rights Defender Khaing Myo Htun

Trial of ethnic-Rakhine activist resumes today

Myanmar

July 14, 2017

Statement

Myanmar Authorities Must Immediately Release and Drop Charges Against three Detained Journalists

Myanmar

July 12, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Drop Criminal Defamation Complaints against Myanmar Workers

Fourteen migrant workers face prison for speaking out

Thailand

July 06, 2017

Statement

Thailand: Implement Commitments to Protect Refugee Rights

End detention, forcible returns of refugees

Thailand

July 06, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Provide Legal Status, Protections for Refugees

U.N. Refugee High Commissioner to meet Thai Prime Minister

Myanmar

June 30, 2017

Commentary

Myanmar needs to get serious about peace

By David Baulk in Al Jazeera

Myanmar

June 29, 2017

Statement

Myanmar: Repeal Section 66(d) of the 2013 Telecommunications Law

Joint statement by 61 Myanmar and international human rights organizations

Thailand

June 07, 2017

Film

Loei Residents Face Lawsuits For Peaceful Protest

Thailand

June 07, 2017

Film

Loei Residents Face Lawsuits For Peaceful Protests (TH)

Myanmar

June 01, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Government to Investigate Torture Video

Ensure impartial investigation, account for well-being of victims

Thailand

May 31, 2017

Letter

Government of Thailand and Businesses Should Ensure Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights are Practiced

We, the undersigned civil society organizations, urge Thai authorities and business enterprises in the country to uphold the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Myanmar

May 31, 2017

Film

Women-led Kachin Groups (Burmese)

Myanmar

May 30, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Women-Led Kachin Groups Provide Aid to Displaced

Myanmar

May 28, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Safety of Men Tortured by Myanmar Army in Video

Urgently investigate, hold perpetrators accountable

Myanmar

May 25, 2017

Statement

Myanmar Civil Society Calls for NLD Government to Fully Cooperate with U.N.-Mandated Fact Finding Mission to Myanmar

We, the undersigned Civil Society organizations, call on the National League for Democracy (NLD) Government to fully cooperate with the forthcoming International Fact Finding Mission into the human rights situation in Rakhine State and other ethnic states, as recently mandated by the United Nations Human Rights Council.

Myanmar

May 25, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Cooperate with U.N. Fact-Finding Mission, Says Civil Society

More than 50 domestic organizations call on government to support human rights mission

Myanmar

May 24, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Interfaith Activists Freed in Amnesty

Immediately release remaining political prisoners, repeal unjust laws

Thailand

May 15, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Hold Perpetrators Accountable for 2014 Attack on Loei Residents

Organizations call on authorities to reopen investigation, ensure effective remedies

Myanmar

April 27, 2017

Letter

Open Letter to Various Governments Regarding the UN-Mandated Fact-Finding Mission to Myanmar

Read the Open Letter

Myanmar

April 27, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Cooperate with U.N. Fact-Finding Mission

23 International Groups Call on Governments to Engage Myanmar to Support U.N. Mission

Myanmar

April 20, 2017

Statement

Myanmar: Establish an Independent Prisoner Review Mechanism to End Politically Motivated Imprisonment

Third Anniversary of the Death of U Win Tin Groups Call for the Immediate Release of All Individuals Imprisoned Under Politically Motivated Charges

Malaysia

April 04, 2017

News Release

Malaysia: Investigate Human Trafficking and Deaths in Immigration Detention Centers

Prosecute Human Traffickers; End Protracted Detention of Refugee, Migrants

Myanmar

March 28, 2017

Film

Myanmar: Army Soldiers Savagely Beat Ethnic Men

Myanmar

March 24, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: U.N. Orders Vital Inquiry into Severe Rights Violations

Accountability Needed for Gross Violations in Rakhine, Kachin, and Shan States

Myanmar

March 17, 2017

Statement

The Human Rights of the Rohingya People

Testimony Before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

Myanmar, United States

March 17, 2017

News Release

U.S.: Support International Inquiry Into Violations in Myanmar

U.N. Human Rights Council Should Mandate Robust Inquiry in Myanmar

Thailand

March 08, 2017

Report

A Work in Progress

Thailand’s Compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

Thailand

March 08, 2017

News Release

Thailand: Protect Basic Freedoms, Promote Civil and Political Rights

Commit to Full Compliance with Rights Treaty During U.N. Review

Myanmar

March 03, 2017

Letter

To the Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council

Myanmar

February 28, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: End Arbitrary Detention of Human Rights Defender Khaing Myo Htun

Investigate Alleged Human Rights Violations in Rakhine State, Hold Perpetrators Accountable

Malaysia

February 23, 2017

News Release

Malaysia: Reverse Conviction of Rights Activist Lena Hendry

Amend Film Censorship Act To Protect Freedom of Expression

Myanmar

February 16, 2017

Letter

NGO Letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres About the Situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State

Read the Joint Letter

Myanmar

February 15, 2017

Commentary

Bringing Burma Back From the Brink

By Matthew Smith in The Wall Street Journal

Myanmar

January 30, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Ensure Accountability for Murder of Prominent Lawyer U Ko Ni and Taxi Driver U Nay Win

Deep Condolences Expressed to Victims’ Families and Loved Ones

Myanmar

January 24, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Release or Charge Kachin Christians

Allow Access by Lawyers and Family to Detained Baptist Leaders

Myanmar

January 18, 2017

Statement

Call for a Truly Independent Investigation into the Situation in Rakhine State

Read the Joint Statement

Myanmar

January 18, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Civil Society Calls for International Investigation in Rakhine State

40 Diverse Groups Call for a “Truly Independent” Commission of Inquiry

Myanmar

January 17, 2017

News Release

Myanmar: Kachin Christians Feared “Disappeared”

Urgently Report on Whereabouts, Well-Being; Allow UN Expert Access

China, Myanmar

January 13, 2017

News Release

China: Protect Ethnic Kachin Refugees Fleeing War in Northern Myanmar

Prevent forced returns, allow humanitarian agencies unfettered access to displaced communities

Myanmar

January 09, 2017

Commentary

The Rohingya Are Ready to Talk About the Atrocities in Burma

By Puttanee Kangkun in The Wall Street Journal

January 01, 2017

Report

Annual Report 2016

We scale our impacts to Malaysia while continuing our work in Myanmar and Thailand. We produce 64 publications, including five full-length reports. We engage hundreds people with power, and our work receives coverage in more than more than 2,900 media articles. We also facilitate 117 strengthening activities with partners.

Myanmar

December 17, 2016

Commentary

ASEAN leaders can help solve Rohingya crisis. Here’s how

By Kobsak Chutikul and Matthew Smith in The Jakarta Post

Thailand

December 10, 2016

Letter

To Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha

Re: Andy Hall’s Conviction of Criminal Defamation and Computer Crimes Violations

Myanmar

December 06, 2016

Commentary

Is genocide unfolding in Myanmar?

By Matthew Smith in CNN

Malaysia

November 28, 2016

News Release

Malaysia: Free Protest Leader Maria Chin Abdullah

Drop terrorism and other charges, protect human rights defenders

Thailand

November 25, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Court Acquits Environmental Defenders of Wrongful Charges

Protect environmental activists, uphold rights to peaceful assembly and expression

Malaysia

November 21, 2016

Statement

Malaysia: Drop Charges and Release Bersih Organizers and Supporters

Read the Joint Statement

Malaysia

November 18, 2016

News Release

Malaysia: Protect the Right to Peaceful Assembly at Bersih 5 Rally

Investigate threats against Bersih organizers

Thailand

November 17, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Court Dismisses Criminal Defamation Case against Thai PBS and Journalists

Decriminalize defamation, protect human rights defenders and press

Thailand

November 15, 2016

Statement

Press freedom advocates call on Thailand to protect Thai PBS and journalists from unwarranted prosecution

"We, the undersigned organizations, urge the Thai government to protect press freedom, decriminalize defamation, and bring the 2007 Computer-related Crime Act into line with international law and standards, including the right to freedom of opinion and expression."

Malaysia

November 14, 2016

Letter

To Prime Minister Najib Razak

Re: Proposed amendments to the Legal Profession Act 1976

Myanmar

November 05, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Scrap Plan to Arm Civilians in Rakhine State

Provide unfettered access for humanitarian groups, journalists, rights monitors

Thailand

October 25, 2016

Statement

Thailand: Proposed amendments to Computer-Related Crime Act fail to address human rights concerns

"We, the undersigned international human rights organizations, urge Thailand’s National Legislative Assembly (NLA) to reject currently proposed amendments to the 2007 Computer- Related Crime Act (CCA) and to instead adopt amendments that would bring the law into line with Thailand’s obligations under international law, including its obligation to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, opinion, and privacy."

Thailand

October 13, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Protect Right to Peaceful Protest of Environmental Defenders

End judicial harassment of mining-affected communities in Loei Province

Myanmar

October 12, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Protect Civilians in Rakhine State, Investigate Fatal Shootings

Extrajudicial Killings and Abuses Undercut Security in Rakhine State

Myanmar

October 07, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Release Prisoners Arbitrarily Detained Under Now-Defunct Law

Repeal of Emergency Provisions Act a positive move towards aligning domestic law with human rights law

Thailand

October 03, 2016

Statement

Thailand: Immediately drop sedition case and all proceedings against human rights lawyer Sirikan Charoensiri

"The Thai Government should immediately drop all proceedings against human rights lawyer, Sirikan Charoensiri, including the specious accusation of sedition, which apparently relate to her organization’s representation of 14 student activists peacefully protesting in June 2015, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA), the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders (an FIDH–OMCT partnership), Protection International (PI), Lawyers’ Rights Watch Canada (LRWC), Fortify Rights, and the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), said today."

Thailand

October 03, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Withdraw Criminal Complaint Against Thai PBS

Government should protect press freedoms, decriminalize defamation laws

Myanmar, United States

September 15, 2016

News Release

U.S.: Lifting Sanctions on Myanmar Puts Human Rights Progress At Risk

U.S. Congress should maintain targeted sanctions on Myanmar

Myanmar, United States

September 12, 2016

Letter

To The Honorable Barack Obama

Oppose Lifting of U.S. Sanctions on Myanmar in Lead Up to Aung San Suu Kyi Visit

Myanmar

August 30, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Strike Down Mandatory Houseguest-Registration

More than 50 organizations in Myanmar call for repeal of controversial law

Myanmar

August 24, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Kofi Annan-led Commission on Rakhine State a Welcomed Move

The “Annan Commission” should seek to end and remedy ongoing rights violations

Myanmar, United States

August 22, 2016

Letter

To The Honorable Barack Obama

The National Ocean Council Committee on IUU Fishing and Seafood Fraud’s Proposed Seafood Import Monitoring Program

Myanmar

August 08, 2016

Statement

ASEAN Regional Cooperation Necessary to Address Root Causes and Protect Rohingya

More than two dozen individuals and civil society organizations (CSO) called on the governments of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to uphold the rights and protections of Rohingya.

Myanmar

August 04, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Release Rakhine Rights-Defender Khaing Myo Htun

Investigate allegations of forced labor and torture in Rakhine State

Myanmar

July 05, 2016

Statement

End Impunity: A Call for Accountability for Crimes against Religious Minorities in Myanmar

On June 23, a violent group of people destroyed a mosque in Thaye Thamain village, Bago Region, and on July 1, a similar mob of people destroyed a Muslim prayer hall in Lone Khin village, Kachin State. In each of these cases, the authorities have failed to hold perpetrators accountable.

Myanmar

July 05, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Destruction of Religious Buildings

Hold Perpetrators Accountable, Ensure Protection for Religious Minorities

Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand

July 01, 2016

News Release

Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia: End Human Trafficking, Protect Survivors

U.S. trafficking report gives Myanmar lowest ranking, fails to accurately assess Thailand, Malaysia

Thailand, United States

June 30, 2016

Letter

To The Honorable John F. Kerry

Re: Thailand’s Designation in the 2016 Global Trafficking in Persons Report

Thailand

June 28, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Protect Ethnic-Rohingya Human Rights Defenders

Uphold Rights to Liberty and Freedom of Expression

Myanmar

June 17, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Release Four “Rohingya Calendar” Political Prisoners

Conviction violates freedom of expression

Myanmar

June 15, 2016

Commentary

Paving the Way for Peace in Burma

By David Baulk in The Wall Street Journal

Myanmar

June 09, 2016

Statement

Five Years of War: A Call for Peace, Justice, and Accountability in Myanmar

(June 9, 2016)—Although much of the world has expressed excitement over Myanmar’s political transition, communities throughout Kachin and northern Shan states have been living with severe human rights abuses and displacement for the last five years.

Thailand

June 08, 2016

Statement

One Year After the Andaman Sea Refugee Crisis End Detention and Bring Justice to Survivors of Human Trafficking

Remarks of Ms. Puttanee Kangkun Thailand Human Rights Specialist at Fortify Rights

Thailand

June 05, 2016

Commentary

Struggle against mining violations leaves activists exposed

By Sutharee Wannasiri and Kingsley Abbott in The Bangkok Post

Thailand

May 31, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Ensure Justice for Human Rights Defenders Attacked in Loei, Hold All Perpetrators Accountable

Court Convicts Two Men for Attacks on Loei Human Rights Defenders

Myanmar

May 30, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Repeal Household Inspection and Guest Registration Provisions in Law

Protect Rights to Privacy and Freedom of Movement, Residency, and Association

Myanmar

May 19, 2016

Commentary

This Is Not the Time to Ease Up on Burma

By Tom Andrews and Matthew Smith in Foreign Policy

Thailand

May 09, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Stop Judicial Harassment of Human Rights Defenders

Strengthen protection mechanisms and ensure accountability for human rights abuses

Myanmar, United States

May 09, 2016

News Release

U.S.: Ongoing Atrocity Crimes Against Ethnic Minorities Merit U.S. Sanctions Renewal on Myanmar (Burma)

Rights Groups Call on President Obama to Renew Sanctions before May 20 Deadline, Set Benchmarks

Myanmar

May 09, 2016

Report

Supporting Human Rights In Myanmar

Why the U.S. Should Maintain Existing Sanctions Authority

Thailand

April 29, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Five years on, international organizations renew their call for the release of Somyot Phrueksakasemsuk

On the eve of the five-year anniversary of his detention, we, the undersigned international organizations, condemn the ongoing and arbitrary deprivation of liberty of human rights defender Somyot Phrueksakasemsuk and call on Thailand’s authorities to immediately and unconditionally release him.

Thailand

April 19, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Implement Cabinet Resolution to Protect Survivors of Human Trafficking

Breakthrough resolution passed by Thai authorities

Myanmar

April 14, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Use of Excessive Force Against Letpadan Protesters

Hold perpetrators accountable, amend peaceful assembly law

Myanmar

April 07, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Release Human Rights Defenders Zaw Zaw Latt, Pwint Phyu Latt, and Zaw Win Bo

Protect interfaith activists, repeal Unlawful Associations Act

Thailand

April 05, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Human rights groups condemn NCPO Order 13/2016 and urge for it to be revoked immediately

Thailand must immediately revoke National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) Order 13/2016 which confers sweeping powers on the Royal Thai Armed Forces in contravention of human rights and the rule of law, said the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), Human Rights Watch (HRW), Amnesty International (AI), Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA), FIDH (International Federation for Human Rights), and Fortify Rights (FR), today.

Thailand

March 30, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Drop Defamation Charges Against Human Rights Defenders Opposing Gold Mine

End the use of defamation, judicial harassment to silence critics

Thailand

March 24, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Investigate Fatal Shooting of Rohingya Refugee, End Indefinite Detention

Ensure Protections for Refugees and Human Trafficking Survivors

Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, United States

March 22, 2016

News Release

United States: Assign Tier-3 Rankings to Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia in Annual Trafficking Report

Objective rankings critical to end abuses, promote progress

Others

March 22, 2016

Statement

Get it Right This Time: A Victims-Centered Trafficking in Persons Report

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations

Thailand

March 16, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Asylum Seekers and Refugees Lack Protection in Thailand

UN submission calls on Thailand to recognize the rights of refugees

Thailand

March 16, 2016

Statement

Kingdom of Thailand Universal Periodic Review – 2nd Cycle

Submitted 21 September 2015

Myanmar

March 15, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Investigate Forced Labor of Rakhine Buddhists in Western Myanmar

Government should hold perpetrators of forced labor accountable, compensate survivors

Malaysia, Thailand

March 11, 2016

News Release

Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia: End Indefinite Detention of Rohingya Refugees

Governments should provide full protection to Rohingya, respect right to liberty

Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand

March 11, 2016

Report

Everywhere is Trouble

A Briefing on the Situation of Rohingya Refugees from Myanmar in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia

Thailand

March 07, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Human Rights Defenders Honored, Still Need Protection

Advocate, journalist, human trafficking survivors, and community activists receive prestigious award

Bangladesh, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand

February 26, 2016

News Release

Fortify Rights to Support Search-and-Rescue Charity MOAS

First-of-its kind effort to save lives at sea in Southeast Asia

Myanmar

February 26, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Facilitate Right to Return and Reparations for Displaced Muslim Rohingya

Scrap plan to sell vacated Muslim-owned properties and businesses in Rakhine State

Thailand

February 24, 2016

News Release

E.U.: Maintain Pressure on Thailand to End Human Trafficking

Abuse against migrants, human trafficking, and impunity continues

Myanmar

February 17, 2016

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges Against Human Rights Defenders Zaw Zaw Latt, Pwint Phyu Latt, and Zaw Win Bo

Ma Ba Tha and authorities target interfaith peace activists

Thailand

February 16, 2016

Letter

To Karmenu Vella

EU Commissioner for fisheries, maritime affairs and environment

Thailand

February 12, 2016

News Release

Thailand: Drop Defamation Cases Against Schoolgirl, Journalists, Villagers

De-criminalize defamation; protect human rights defenders and press

Myanmar

January 25, 2016

News Release

Myanmar Political Prisoners Face Medical Crisis, Denied Health Care

Government should immediately free wrongfully-imprisoned Letpadan protestors

January 01, 2016

Report

Annual Report 2015

We scale our work to Thailand and expand our work in Myanmar. We produce 28 publications, including four full-length reports. We engage more than 100 people with power, and our work receives coverage in more than 2,400 media articles. We also support a variety of initiatives with partners in Thailand and Myanmar.

Thailand

December 24, 2015

News Release

Thailand: Threats Continue in Human Trafficking Trial

Only 12 of 500 Witnesses Receiving Protection, Others Detained

Myanmar

December 11, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges Against “Rohingya Calendar” Defendants

Ensure Freedom of Expression and Protection for Defendants

Thailand

December 09, 2015

News Release

Thailand: Human Trafficking Case Obstructed, Chief Investigator in Hiding

Thailand should reopen inquiry into human trafficking of Rohingya and Bangladeshis

Myanmar

December 06, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Fair Trial Denied in “Muslim Army” Case, Torture Alleged

Authorities must investigate allegations of torture in detention, uphold due process rights

Myanmar

November 27, 2015

Commentary

Ethnic minorities in Myanmar denied vote as Aung San Suu Kyi claims power

By David Baulk and Matthew Smith in The Guardian

Myanmar

October 29, 2015

Report

Persecution of the Rohingya Muslims

Is Genocide Occurring in Myanmar’s Rakhine State? A Legal Analysis

Myanmar

October 29, 2015

News Release

United Nations: Establish Independent Investigation into Genocide in Myanmar

Legal analysis finds strong evidence of genocide against Rohingya Muslims

Myanmar

October 14, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges Against Human Rights Lawyer Khin Khin Kyaw

Free wrongfully imprisoned protesters, hold police and officials accountable for Letpadan crackdown

Myanmar

October 10, 2015

Report

Crackdown at Letpadan

Excessive Use of Force and Violations of the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Expression in Letpadan, Bago Region, Myanmar

Myanmar

October 10, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Hold police accountable for crackdown at Letpadan, Free wrongfully imprisoned protesters

New report finds police blocked peaceful assembly, used excessive force

Myanmar

October 10, 2015

Film

Crackdown at Letpadan, October 2015

Myanmar

September 29, 2015

Report

Submission to the United Nations Universal Periodic Review: Myanmar

23rd Session, November 2015

Myanmar

September 29, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: End International Crimes, Hold Perpetrators Accountable

Make clear, genuine commitments on human rights at Universal Periodic Review

Malaysia, Myanmar, United States

July 28, 2015

News Release

U.S.: Don’t Let Trade Trump Human Rights

Annual Human Trafficking Report Lets Malaysia, Myanmar off the Hook

Thailand

July 27, 2015

Letter

To The Honorable John F. Kerry

Re: Thailand’s designation in the 2015 Trafficking in Persons Report

Myanmar

July 20, 2015

Commentary

The ‘boat people’ crisis won’t end until Burma stops persecuting the Rohingya

By Matthew Smith in The Guardian

Bangladesh, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand

May 13, 2015

News Release

Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia: Coordinate Sea Rescues, Protect Asylum Seekers and Trafficking Survivors

Closing borders and pushbacks have led to death, abuses

Thailand

May 01, 2015

Letter

To The Honorable John F. Kerry

Re: Thailand’s designation in the 2015 Trafficking in Persons Report

Others

April 22, 2015

Statement

Accountability and Transformation: Tier Rankings in the Fight against Human Trafficking

Testimony of Matthew Smith Executive Director of Fortify Rights

Others

April 22, 2015

News Release

United States: Assign Tier-3 Rankings to Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Bangladesh in Annual Trafficking Report

More Pressure Needed on Countries Failing to Eliminate Human Trafficking

Myanmar

March 19, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Abolish Mandatory Guest Registration, End Household Inspections

Government using law to crackdown on protesters, collect personal data nationwide

Myanmar

March 19, 2015

Report

Midnight Intrusions

Ending Guest Registration and Household Inspections in Myanmar

Myanmar

March 14, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Free Prisoners of Conscience in Rakhine State

End Ongoing Persecution of Rohingya

China, Myanmar

March 04, 2015

Commentary

How China Fuels Myanmar’s Wars

By Matthew Smith in New York Times

Myanmar

February 18, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Overturn Wrongful Conviction of Brang Shawng

Kachin man convicted for implicating military in death of his daughter

Myanmar

February 03, 2015

News Release

Myanmar: Prosecute Perpetrators, Not Human Rights Defenders

Authorities Threaten Media & Critics for Implicating Military in Kachin Killings

Thailand

January 27, 2015

News Release

Thailand: Government Drops Prison-Labor Plan, More Protections Needed

The Government of Thailand announced on January 16 that it would scrap a proposed project to recruit prisoners to work on Thai fishing boats. The announcement came after Fortify Rights and 44 other labor and human rights groups raised concerns about the project in a letter to Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on January 14.

Thailand

January 15, 2015

News Release

Thailand: Scrap Plan to Send Prison Labor to Fishing Boats

Thai Prison-Labor Scheme Draws International Condemnation

Thailand

January 14, 2015

Letter

To Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha

Re: Recruitment of Prisoners to Work on Thai Fishing Boats

Myanmar

December 18, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: Drop Charges against Father of Slain School-Girl

Military Charges Man for Complaint to Human Rights Commission

Myanmar

December 08, 2014

Letter

To President Thein Sein

Re: Prosecution of Shayam Brang Shawng

Myanmar

December 03, 2014

Commentary

Burma’s Soldiers Beware

By Matthew Smith in Wall Street Journal

Myanmar

November 07, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: Authorities Complicit in Rohingya Trafficking, Smuggling

End Persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State

Myanmar

November 06, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: End Military Attacks On Kachin And Shan Civilians

War Crimes Continue with Impunity in Northern Myanmar

Myanmar

August 05, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: Release Rohingya Political Prisoner Kyaw Hla Aung

End Ongoing Persecution of Rohingya

Myanmar

July 03, 2014

Commentary

Myanmar’s Tainted Democratic Transition

By Matthew Smith in Al Jazeera America

Others

June 25, 2014

News Release

Fortify Rights Executive Director Wins 2014 Echoing Green Fellowship

Echoing Green, a leading global nonprofit that supports “social entrepreneurs launching bold new organizations to generate positive systemic change,” today announced its selection of Matthew Smith, executive director of Fortify Rights, as a 2014 Global Fellow.

Myanmar

June 09, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: End Wartime Torture in Kachin State and northern Shan State

Ongoing War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity, Unmet Humanitarian Needs

Myanmar

June 09, 2014

Report

“I Thought They Would Kill Me”

Ending Wartime Torture in Northern Myanmar

Myanmar

March 21, 2014

Commentary

Myanmar’s Policies of Persecution

By Taylor Landis in Harvard Law Human Rights Program

Myanmar

March 13, 2014

Commentary

Burma’s Ethnic Persecution is State Policy

By Matthew Smith in The Wall Street Journal

Myanmar

February 25, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: Abolish Abusive Restrictions & Practices Against Rohingya Muslims

Leaked Documents Implicate Government Actors in Crimes Against Humanity

Myanmar

February 25, 2014

Report

Policies of Persecution

Ending Abusive State Policies Against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar

Myanmar

January 23, 2014

News Release

Myanmar: End Mass Arrests of Muslim Men and Boys in Rakhine State, Protect At-Risk Communities

Grant Immediate Humanitarian Access, Ensure Accountability for Violations

Myanmar

December 18, 2013

Commentary

Women’s voices not being heard in peace talks

By Taylor Landis in Myanmar Times

Myanmar

November 27, 2013

Commentary

Myanmar’s Economy Needs Human Rights Reforms

By Matthew Smith in The Huffington Post

Myanmar

October 09, 2013

News Release

UN General Assembly: Establish Clear Benchmarks To Address Continuing Abuses In Myanmar

Wartime Abuses in Kachin State, “Ethnic Cleansing” in Rakhine State, Tens of Thousands Denied Access to Aid

Myanmar

July 16, 2013

Commentary

Tour of shame for Thein Sein

By Matthew Smith in Asia Times Online