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July 10, 2020
News Release
Thailand
July 03, 2020
Strengthening
Myanmar (Burma)
June 25, 2020
News Release
Government announces plans for landmine clearance bodies
Malaysia
June 23, 2020
News Release
Refugees describe struggle to survive during pandemic
Myanmar (Burma)
June 11, 2020
Joint Statement
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
Court acquits two human rights defenders of spurious charges brought by Thammakaset
Thailand
June 08, 2020
Open Letter
Re: Ongoing situation of judicial harassment of women and men Human Rights Defenders (W/HRDs) in Thailand
Thailand
June 05, 2020
News Release
Thailand threatens to return 35 Rohingya, including six women and 16 children, to Myanmar
Thailand
June 03, 2020
News Release
Thai chicken company files new criminal complaints against prominent Thai women human rights defenders
Thailand
May 28, 2020
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in Bangkok Post
Bangladesh
May 15, 2020
News Release
First case of COVID-19 confirmed in Rohingya refugee camp
Myanmar (Burma)
May 14, 2020
News Release
COVID-19 and longstanding restrictions on humanitarian aid hamper landmine-survivor support
Malaysia
May 11, 2020
Joint Letter
Malaysia
May 11, 2020
Joint Letter, News Release
84 organizations call on Malaysia to end discriminatory rhetoric against Rohingya refugees
Thailand
May 01, 2020
News Release
42 detainees in Songkhla Immigration Detention Center test positive for COVID-19
Bangladesh
April 30, 2020
News Release
Testimony reveals murder, beatings, and deprivations at sea
Myanmar (Burma)
April 23, 2020
Report
Violations of Students’ Rights in Mandalay, Myanmar,
Myanmar (Burma)
April 23, 2020
News Release
New report exposes arbitrary detention and torture of university student activists
Thailand
April 21, 2020
News Release
Thai chicken company continues to target women human rights defenders
Malaysia
April 17, 2020
News Release
Boats of Rohingya refugees reportedly adrift at sea
Thailand
April 15, 2020
Joint Letter
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
Boat of more than 200 Rohingya refugees intercepted by Malaysian authorities
Bangladesh
April 02, 2020
Joint Letter, News Release
50 organizations call for end to communication restrictions and fencing in Cox’s Bazar
Bangladesh
April 02, 2020
Joint Letter
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.
Bangladesh
March 31, 2020
Commentary
By John Quinley in Dhaka Tribune
Myanmar (Burma)
March 26, 2020
News Release
Access to information necessary to prevent spread of COVID-19
Bangladesh
March 16, 2020
News Release
Lift arbitrary restrictions on internet and mobile communications, cease fencing camps
Myanmar (Burma)
March 06, 2020
News Release
Lawyer compares Myanmar treatment of Rohingya to Nazi Germany
Bangladesh
March 06, 2020
News Release
Rohingya Christians abducted and beaten, religious property destroyed
Thailand
February 17, 2020
News Release
Preliminary hearings set for Angkhana Neelapaijit and Puttanee Kangkun
Thailand
February 17, 2020
Statement
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.
February 13, 2020
Joint Statement
Mobile internet blackout in four townships in Rakhine State among the world’s longest running
February 13, 2020
News Release
29 international and Myanmar-based organizations call for end to internet shutdown
Myanmar (Burma)
February 12, 2020
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in Mekong Review
Thailand
January 29, 2020
News Release
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.
Myanmar (Burma)
January 23, 2020
News Release
In historic move, World Court orders Myanmar to prevent genocide against Rohingya
Myanmar (Burma), Malaysia
January 21, 2020
Statement, Strengthening
Rohingya women organize while Myanmar faces genocide charges at the ICJ
Myanmar (Burma)
January 16, 2020
News Release
Internal government documents reveal ongoing campaign
Myanmar (Burma)
December 11, 2019
Commentary
By Michael Lwin and Matthew Smith in Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
Myanmar (Burma)
December 09, 2019
News Release
New footage shows dozens of Rohingya men, women, children behind bars
Myanmar (Burma)
December 07, 2019
News Release
Child-slave labor, severe violations against Rohingya continue
Thailand
December 06, 2019
News Release
Thai authorities threaten to return family of Arakan Army commander to Myanmar where they face persecution
Myanmar (Burma)
November 27, 2019
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in Nikkei Asian Review
Thailand
November 26, 2019
News Release
Poultry company files new complaint against human rights defender, mediation scheduled for February 12, 2020.
Bangladesh
November 12, 2019
Joint Letter
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
Joint Letter, News Release
U.N. assessment of Bhasan Char island scheduled to begin on November 17
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
November 11, 2019
News Release
The Gambia files case against Myanmar for Rohingya genocide
Thailand
November 11, 2019
Joint Statement
Cabinet expected to consider draft regulation to screen refugees before the end of this year
Thailand
November 11, 2019
Joint Statement, News Release
Government commits to creating refugee-screening mechanism
Thailand
October 30, 2019
News Release
Court to deliver verdict on appeals of Thailand's largest-ever human trafficking trial
Myanmar (Burma)
October 27, 2019
News Release
Trial of activists set to continue tomorrow
Bangladesh
October 24, 2019
News Release
Testimonies indicate relocations slated for next month would be involuntary
Myanmar (Burma)
October 22, 2019
Commentary
By John Quinley III in The Daily Star
Myanmar (Burma)
October 11, 2019
News Release
Five protesters in hiding, trial set to continue October 24
Thailand
September 29, 2019
Strengthening
Fortify Rights hosted a reception celebrating Angkhana Neelapaijit on receiving the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award 2019.
Myanmar (Burma)
September 18, 2019
News Release
Anti-war protesters face arbitrary arrest and detention
Thailand
September 17, 2019
Profile
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.
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
September 13, 2019
News Release
Bangladesh suspends internet access for refugees, internet restrictions continue in parts of Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
September 03, 2019
Report
National Verification Cards and the Denial of Citizenship of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
September 03, 2019
News Release
Fortify Rights’ latest 102-page report exposes new details on root of Rohingya crisis
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
September 02, 2019
Joint Letter
Re: Rosenthal Report
United Nations
August 30, 2019
Joint Letter
UN Human Rights Council should address human rights crisis in Cambodia at its 42nd session
United States
August 28, 2019
News Release
The Carr Center combines theory, policy, and practice to address the most entrenched and complex problems facing societies around the world.
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
August 21, 2019
News Release
“Repatriation” scheduled to begin August 22
Thailand
August 05, 2019
News Release
Poultry company continues assault on free expression in Thailand
Myanmar (Burma)
July 22, 2019
News Release
Ensure access for aid groups and monitors
India
July 05, 2019
News Release
Video footage shows Indian security forces dragging Rakhine refugee
Thailand
June 28, 2019
News Release
Court to consider complaint by Thammakaset Company Limited on July 1, 2019
Myanmar (Burma)
June 28, 2019
News Release
Government released four members of a Muslim-wedding party imprisoned since 2014
Thailand
June 12, 2019
News Release
Boat of 65 Rohingya refugees landed in Thailand yesterday
Malaysia
June 09, 2019
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in The Star
Myanmar (Burma)
June 04, 2019
News Release
Civilians, including children, killed and injured in armed conflict
May 27, 2019
News Release
Saman Zia-Zarifi, Sanjula Weerasinghe, and an ethnic leader from Myanmar join the organization
Thailand
May 23, 2019
News Release
Bangkok Criminal Court to begin trial tomorrow
Myanmar (Burma)
May 21, 2019
News Release
Repeal Unlawful Associations Act, protect freedom of expression and association
Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma)
April 10, 2019
Statement
Rohingya women organize for change
Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand
March 27, 2019
Report
Crimes Against Humanity, Mass Graves, and Human Trafficking from Myanmar and Bangladesh to Malaysia from 2012 to 2015
Malaysia
March 27, 2019
News Release
Report finds trafficking syndicate committed crimes against humanity
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
March 25, 2019
Joint Letter
"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 (Burma)
March 18, 2019
News Release
Myanmar military announces “investigative court” to “scrutinize” allegations of human rights violations in Rakhine State
Bangladesh
March 14, 2019
News Release
Militants should protect the right to freedom of expression
Thailand
March 12, 2019
News Release
Thai court confirms criminal defamation charges against Nan Win
Myanmar (Burma)
March 07, 2019
Joint Statement
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
Joint News Release
Rohingya refugee girls describe forced marriage and slave-like conditions
Myanmar (Burma)
February 15, 2019
Joint News Release
University students sentenced to hard labor for peaceful protest
Thailand
February 14, 2019
Open Letter
"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."
February 14, 2019
Commentary
By John Quinley III in TIME
Thailand
February 14, 2019
News Release
89 organizations worldwide ask Thai Prime Minister to address judicial harassment
Myanmar (Burma)
February 13, 2019
News Release
Police fired rubber bullets, tear gas at protesters
Myanmar (Burma)
February 08, 2019
News Release
Ensure rights to freedom of assembly and expression
Thailand
February 05, 2019
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation
Thailand
February 04, 2019
News Release
Worker who exposed abuses to appear in court today
India, Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
January 24, 2019
News Release
Authorities threaten refugees with forced return to Myanmar
Thailand
January 23, 2019
Joint Letter
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
Joint Statement, News Release
Deputy Prime Minister Signs Agreement to Prevent Detention of Children
Thailand
January 21, 2019
Joint Statement
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
Fortify Rights Legal Director named Malaysia’s Representative to ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights
Malaysia
January 06, 2019
Commentary
By Eric Paulsen in The Star
Malaysia
December 23, 2018
Commentary
By Eric Paulsen in The Star
Malaysia
December 17, 2018
News Release
Hate-crime legislation would protect LGBTI persons and aid accountability
United States, Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
December 17, 2018
News Release
23 Rohingya groups worldwide call on the U.S. government to push for international accountability for genocide
United States, Myanmar (Burma)
December 13, 2018
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in The Washington Post
Myanmar (Burma)
December 11, 2018
News Release
One-year anniversary of the arbitrary detention of Reuters journalists
Malaysia
December 06, 2018
News Release
Education Minister proposes more political freedoms on campuses
Thailand
December 03, 2018
Joint Statement
Court scheduled to consider new complaints on December 3
Thailand
December 02, 2018
Joint Statement, News Release
Bangkok court to consider new criminal defamation complaints today
Malaysia
November 29, 2018
Commentary
By Eric Paulsen in Malaysiakini
Thailand
November 28, 2018
News Release
Protect human rights defenders from judicial harassment
Malaysia
November 14, 2018
News Release
Prime Minister’s Department Minister for Law pledges to abolish death penalty
Bangladesh
November 12, 2018
News Release
Refugees fear forced returns to Myanmar amidst threats, physical assault
Thailand
November 05, 2018
News Release
National Human Rights Commission of Thailand releases findings on death of Rohingya refugee girl in detention
Thailand, Malaysia
October 24, 2018
News Release
New research documents Rohingya on-the-move and exploitation
Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
October 24, 2018
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun and John Quinley III in Humanitarian Exchange Magazine
Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma)
October 17, 2018
Commentary
By John Quinley III in The Dhaka Tribune
Myanmar (Burma)
October 12, 2018
News Release
Uphold freedom of expression, decriminalize defamation
Thailand
October 12, 2018
News Release
More than 200 refugees arrested in two months, Deputy Prime Minister orders deportation of migrants
October 05, 2018
Commentary
By Henry Koh in Malaysiakini
Malaysia
October 04, 2018
News Release
Education Minister vows to abolish controversial restrictions
Thailand
October 02, 2018
News Release
New report reveals decade of violations against environmental defenders in Loei Province
Thailand
October 02, 2018
Report
Reprisals Against Environmental Defenders in Loei Province, Thailand
Thailand
September 28, 2018
Joint Statement
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.
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
September 27, 2018
News Release
U.N. Security Council should urgently refer Myanmar to International Criminal Court
Bangladesh
September 26, 2018
News Release
Prime Minister to address U.N. General Assembly today
Thailand
September 24, 2018
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation
Myanmar (Burma)
September 21, 2018
Commentary
By Eric Paulse in The Diplomat
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
September 07, 2018
News Release
Historic decision grants court jurisdiction over forced deportation
Myanmar (Burma)
September 04, 2018
News Release
83 civil society organizations in Myanmar call for release of journalists and accountability
Myanmar (Burma)
September 03, 2018
Joint Statement
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 (Burma), China
August 31, 2018
Commentary
By David Baulk in TIME
Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma)
August 30, 2018
Commentary
By Taimoor Sobhan in CNN
Myanmar (Burma)
August 30, 2018
Report
Avoidable Deprivations in Humanitarian Aid to Ethnic Civilians Displaced by War in Kachin State, Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
August 30, 2018
News Release
New report reveals how government obstructed aid to displaced Kachin since 2011
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
August 27, 2018
Commentary
By John Quinley III in Asia Times
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
August 27, 2018
News Release
Independent U.N. Mission finds Myanmar committed atrocities against Kachin, Rohingya, Shan
Malaysia
August 24, 2018
Commentary
By Eric Paulsen in Malaysiakini
Thailand
August 18, 2018
Joint Statement
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
Repeal the Sedition Act, protect the freedom of expression
Thailand
July 31, 2018
Report
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, Submission
Thailand submits progress report to U.N. on compliance with civil and political rights
Malaysia
July 23, 2018
Commentary
By Eric Paulsen in The Sun Daily
Myanmar (Burma)
July 19, 2018
Report
Preparations for Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity Against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
July 19, 2018
News Release
Report finds “reasonable grounds” for ICC arrest warrants, identifies 22 military and police officials
Thailand
July 10, 2018
News Release
Court verdict expected tomorrow on freedom of expression case
United States
July 09, 2018
Joint Letter
US Congress should adopt legislation to enhance targeted sanctions against Myanmar military commanders
Malaysia
June 28, 2018
Report
Violations of the Rights to Freedom of Expression, Peaceful Assembly, and Association Against University Students in Malaysia
Malaysia
June 28, 2018
News Release
New report reveals decades-long state restrictions on speech, expression, assembly
June 25, 2018
News Release
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
Joint Statement
End detention, forcible returns, and establish durable solutions
Thailand
June 07, 2018
Commentary
By Sutharee Wannasiri in Asia Times
Thailand
June 04, 2018
Joint News Release
Prosecutor expected to consider charges against protesters on Tuesday
Thailand
May 24, 2018
Commentary
By Sutharee Wannasiri in Asia Times
Myanmar (Burma)
May 24, 2018
Joint Submission
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 (Burma)
May 24, 2018
Joint News Release, Joint Submission
Committee Seeks Information on Rakhine State Atrocities Against Women, Girls
Malaysia
May 24, 2018
News Release
Momentous new government commits to repeal repressive laws
Malaysia
May 23, 2018
Open Letter
Re: Human rights reforms under the new government
Malaysia
May 23, 2018
News Release, Open Letter
Re: Human rights reforms under the new government
Thailand
May 21, 2018
News Release
Criminal defamation trial against journalists resumes today
Myanmar (Burma)
May 21, 2018
Joint News Release
Trial against three protesters continues today
Myanmar (Burma)
May 12, 2018
News Release
Multi-city protests call for civilian protection and end to conflict in Kachin State
Bangladesh
May 09, 2018
News Release
ICC Pre-Trial Chamber invites feedback from Bangladesh on possible prosecution
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
May 08, 2018
News Release
Security Council concluded visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh on May 1
United States
May 06, 2018
News Release
Organization honored today for its human rights work in Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
April 19, 2018
News Release
Surviving family member in hiding, facing prison after calling for investigation
Thailand
April 18, 2018
News Release
Verdict expected tomorrow in peaceful assembly case
Malaysia
April 17, 2018
Commentary
By Henry Koh in Asia Times
Myanmar (Burma)
April 17, 2018
News Release
Presidential amnesty frees 8,490 prisoners, political prisoners remain behind bars
Thailand
April 04, 2018
Report
Read the Report (English and Thai)
Thailand
April 04, 2018
News Release
U.N. Working Group on business and human rights concludes first official visit
Thailand, Malaysia
April 02, 2018
News Release
Thai authorities push Rohingya refugees back out to sea, putting lives at risk
Thailand
March 19, 2018
News Release
Appeal Court to issue ruling on rights-violating case against journalists tomorrow
Myanmar (Burma)
February 22, 2018
News Release
Protect right to freedom of expression, free remaining political prisoners
Myanmar (Burma)
February 20, 2018
News Release
Civilians feared disappeared after being detained by military on January 31
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
February 13, 2018
News Release
Pressure mounts as Security Council meets today to discuss Rohingya
Myanmar (Burma)
February 12, 2018
News Release
Court confirms murder charges against four defendants
Thailand
February 06, 2018
News Release
Trial set to begin tomorrow in Bangkok
Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma)
January 29, 2018
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in CNN
Myanmar (Burma)
January 22, 2018
News Release
Survivors and eyewitnesses describe unlawful use of lethal force by police
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
January 22, 2018
News Release
Repatriation set to begin January 23, new film highlights Rohingya voices
Myanmar (Burma)
January 11, 2018
News Release
Two journalists face 14-year prison sentence, trial begins January 23
Thailand
January 05, 2018
Joint News Release
Thai journalist faces up to five years in prison
Myanmar (Burma)
December 14, 2017
Two Reuters journalists arrested in mounting crackdown on media
Malaysia
December 12, 2017
Commentary
By Henry Koh in The Malay Mail
Myanmar (Burma), United Nations
December 11, 2017
Joint Statement
...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...
Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), Malaysia
November 18, 2017
Commentary
By Sutharee Wannasiri, Nickey Diamond, and Henry Koh in Asia Times
Myanmar (Burma)
November 14, 2017
News Release
International cooperation needed to halt killing and seek justice
Myanmar (Burma)
November 14, 2017
Report
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and Fortify Rights
Myanmar (Burma)
November 13, 2017
News Release
Decriminalize defamation laws, uphold right to freedom of expression
Thailand
November 09, 2017
News Release
16-Year-old Rohingya Girl Dies After Three Years in Thai Detention
Myanmar (Burma)
November 06, 2017
News Release
Investigate alleged torture, repeal Unlawful Associations Act
Myanmar (Burma)
November 06, 2017
Remarks
Submission to the U.K. Parliament International Development Committee Inquiry
Thailand
November 05, 2017
News Release
“Black Halloween” crackdown and other raids result in arrest of 19 children
United States, Myanmar (Burma)
November 02, 2017
Joint Letter
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 (Burma)
October 31, 2017
News Release
Landmine casualties mount, two recent deaths in Shan State
Myanmar (Burma)
October 27, 2017
News Release
Decision today extended pre-trial bail of journalist Swe Win, next hearing Monday
Myanmar (Burma)
October 27, 2017
News Release
Verdict Expected on Dubious Unlawful Association, Defamation Charges
Myanmar (Burma)
October 24, 2017
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in TIME
Thailand
October 20, 2017
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in The Nation
Myanmar (Burma), Bangladesh
October 17, 2017
Commentary
By Amy Smith and Matthew Smith in Forbes
Myanmar (Burma)
October 11, 2017
News Release
Verdict expected tomorrow in human rights defender case
Thailand, United States
October 02, 2017
News Release
U.S. President Donald Trump should urge Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to meet human rights obligations
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
September 28, 2017
News Release
U.N. Secretary General to brief Security Council today, 88 organizations call for arms embargo, sanctions on Myanmar
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
September 27, 2017
Joint Statement
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
Open Letter
Re: protecting new rohingya refugee arrivals and engaging with the Myanmar military on ending attacks in Rakhine
Thailand
September 26, 2017
News Release
Letter to Prime Minister Prayut recommends Thailand protect potential new refugee arrivals
Thailand
September 19, 2017
Joint Letter
Re: Criminal Defamation Complaints Brought against Myanmar Migrant Workers and Labor Rights Advocate.
Thailand
September 19, 2017
News Release
87 civil society groups, businesses, parliamentarians urge Thai Prime Minister to protect freedom of expression and labor rights
Myanmar (Burma)
September 01, 2017
News Release
Massive refugee-influx expected in Bangladesh as Muslim villages burn
Myanmar (Burma)
August 24, 2017
News Release
Abolish restrictions and ensure accountability, cooperate with U.N. Fact Finders
Malaysia
August 16, 2017
News Release
Immediately repeal Film Censorship Act
Myanmar (Burma)
August 07, 2017
Commentary
By Matthew Smith and Amy Smith in Tea Circle
Myanmar (Burma)
July 30, 2017
News Release
Fifth journalist detained in the country in two months
Myanmar (Burma)
July 30, 2017
News Release
Free Detained Journalists, Ensure Accountability
Myanmar (Burma)
July 25, 2017
News Release
Trial Slated for July 26
Thailand
July 24, 2017
News Release
Local residents face five to ten years in prison for peaceful assemblies
Myanmar (Burma)
July 24, 2017
News Release
One-year anniversary of arbitrary detention of rights-defender
Thailand
July 20, 2017
News Release
Verdicts delivered in Thailand’s largest human trafficking trial
Thailand
July 18, 2017
News Release
Verdict expected tomorrow in Thailand’s largest-ever human trafficking trial
Myanmar (Burma)
July 17, 2017
News Release
Trial of ethnic-Rakhine activist resumes today
Myanmar (Burma)
July 14, 2017
Joint Statement
Thailand
July 12, 2017
News Release
Fourteen migrant workers face prison for speaking out
Thailand
July 06, 2017
Joint Statement
End detention, forcible returns of refugees
Thailand
July 06, 2017
News Release
U.N. Refugee High Commissioner to meet Thai Prime Minister
Myanmar (Burma)
June 30, 2017
Commentary
By David Baulk in Al Jazeera
Myanmar (Burma)
June 29, 2017
Joint Statement
Joint statement by 61 Myanmar and international human rights organizations
Myanmar (Burma)
June 01, 2017
News Release
Ensure impartial investigation, account for well-being of victims
Thailand
May 31, 2017
Joint Letter
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 (Burma)
May 28, 2017
News Release
Urgently investigate, hold perpetrators accountable
Myanmar (Burma)
May 25, 2017
Joint Statement
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 (Burma)
May 25, 2017
News Release
More than 50 domestic organizations call on government to support human rights mission
Myanmar (Burma)
May 24, 2017
News Release
Immediately release remaining political prisoners, repeal unjust laws
Thailand
May 15, 2017
News Release
Organizations call on authorities to reopen investigation, ensure effective remedies
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
April 27, 2017
Open Letter
Read the Open Letter
Myanmar (Burma)
April 27, 2017
News Release
23 International Groups Call on Governments to Engage Myanmar to Support U.N. Mission
Myanmar (Burma)
April 20, 2017
Joint Statement
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
Prosecute Human Traffickers; End Protracted Detention of Refugee, Migrants
Myanmar (Burma)
March 24, 2017
News Release
Accountability Needed for Gross Violations in Rakhine, Kachin, and Shan States
Myanmar (Burma), United States
March 17, 2017
Testimony
Testimony Before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission
United States, Myanmar (Burma)
March 17, 2017
News Release
U.N. Human Rights Council Should Mandate Robust Inquiry in Myanmar
Thailand
March 08, 2017
Report
Thailand’s Compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
Thailand
March 08, 2017
News Release
Commit to Full Compliance with Rights Treaty During U.N. Review
United Nations
March 03, 2017
Joint Letter
Myanmar (Burma)
February 28, 2017
News Release
Investigate Alleged Human Rights Violations in Rakhine State, Hold Perpetrators Accountable
Malaysia
February 23, 2017
News Release
Amend Film Censorship Act To Protect Freedom of Expression
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
February 16, 2017
Joint Letter
Read the Joint Letter
Myanmar (Burma)
February 15, 2017
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in The Wall Street Journal
Myanmar (Burma)
January 30, 2017
News Release
Deep Condolences Expressed to Victims’ Families and Loved Ones
Myanmar (Burma)
January 24, 2017
News Release
Allow Access by Lawyers and Family to Detained Baptist Leaders
Myanmar (Burma)
January 18, 2017
Joint Statement
Read the Joint Statement
Myanmar (Burma)
January 18, 2017
News Release
40 Diverse Groups Call for a “Truly Independent” Commission of Inquiry
Myanmar (Burma)
January 17, 2017
News Release
Urgently Report on Whereabouts, Well-Being; Allow UN Expert Access
Myanmar (Burma), China
January 13, 2017
News Release
Prevent forced returns, allow humanitarian agencies unfettered access to displaced communities
Myanmar (Burma)
January 09, 2017
Commentary
By Puttanee Kangkun in The Wall Street Journal
Myanmar (Burma)
December 17, 2016
Commentary
By Kobsak Chutikul and Matthew Smith in The Jakarta Post
Thailand
December 10, 2016
Joint Letter
Re: Andy Hall’s Conviction of Criminal Defamation and Computer Crimes Violations
Myanmar (Burma)
December 06, 2016
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in CNN
Malaysia
November 28, 2016
News Release
Drop terrorism and other charges, protect human rights defenders
Thailand
November 25, 2016
News Release
Protect environmental activists, uphold rights to peaceful assembly and expression
Malaysia
November 21, 2016
Joint Statement
Read the Joint Statement
Malaysia
November 18, 2016
News Release
Investigate threats against Bersih organizers
Thailand
November 17, 2016
News Release
Decriminalize defamation, protect human rights defenders and press
Thailand
November 15, 2016
Joint Statement
"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
Joint Letter
Re: Proposed amendments to the Legal Profession Act 1976
Myanmar (Burma)
November 05, 2016
News Release
Provide unfettered access for humanitarian groups, journalists, rights monitors
Thailand
October 25, 2016
Joint Statement
"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
End judicial harassment of mining-affected communities in Loei Province
Myanmar (Burma)
October 12, 2016
News Release
Extrajudicial Killings and Abuses Undercut Security in Rakhine State
Myanmar (Burma)
October 07, 2016
News Release
Repeal of Emergency Provisions Act a positive move towards aligning domestic law with human rights law
Thailand
October 03, 2016
Joint Statement
"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
Government should protect press freedoms, decriminalize defamation laws
Myanmar (Burma), United States
September 15, 2016
News Release
U.S. Congress should maintain targeted sanctions on Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma), United States
September 12, 2016
Joint Letter
Oppose Lifting of U.S. Sanctions on Myanmar in Lead Up to Aung San Suu Kyi Visit
Myanmar (Burma)
August 30, 2016
News Release
More than 50 organizations in Myanmar call for repeal of controversial law
Myanmar (Burma)
August 24, 2016
News Release
The “Annan Commission” should seek to end and remedy ongoing rights violations
Myanmar (Burma), United States
August 22, 2016
Joint Letter
The National Ocean Council Committee on IUU Fishing and Seafood Fraud’s Proposed Seafood Import Monitoring Program
Myanmar (Burma)
August 08, 2016
Joint Statement
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 (Burma)
August 04, 2016
News Release
Investigate allegations of forced labor and torture in Rakhine State
Myanmar (Burma)
July 05, 2016
Joint Statement
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 (Burma)
July 05, 2016
News Release
Hold Perpetrators Accountable, Ensure Protection for Religious Minorities
Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia
July 01, 2016
News Release
U.S. trafficking report gives Myanmar lowest ranking, fails to accurately assess Thailand, Malaysia
Thailand, United States
June 30, 2016
Open Letter
Re: Thailand’s Designation in the 2016 Global Trafficking in Persons Report
Thailand
June 28, 2016
News Release
Uphold Rights to Liberty and Freedom of Expression
Myanmar (Burma)
June 17, 2016
News Release
Conviction violates freedom of expression
Myanmar (Burma)
June 15, 2016
Commentary
By David Baulk in The Wall Street Journal
Myanmar (Burma)
June 09, 2016
Joint Statement
(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
Remarks
Remarks of Ms. Puttanee Kangkun Thailand Human Rights Specialist at Fortify Rights
Thailand
June 05, 2016
Commentary
By Sutharee Wannasiri and Kingsley Abbott in The Bangkok Post
Thailand
May 31, 2016
News Release
Court Convicts Two Men for Attacks on Loei Human Rights Defenders
Myanmar (Burma)
May 30, 2016
News Release
Protect Rights to Privacy and Freedom of Movement, Residency, and Association
Myanmar (Burma)
May 19, 2016
Commentary
By Tom Andrews and Matthew Smith in Foreign Policy
Thailand
May 09, 2016
News Release
Strengthen protection mechanisms and ensure accountability for human rights abuses
Myanmar (Burma), United States
May 09, 2016
News Release
Rights Groups Call on President Obama to Renew Sanctions before May 20 Deadline, Set Benchmarks
Myanmar (Burma)
May 09, 2016
Report
Why the U.S. Should Maintain Existing Sanctions Authority
Thailand
April 29, 2016
News Release
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
Breakthrough resolution passed by Thai authorities
Myanmar (Burma)
April 14, 2016
News Release
Hold perpetrators accountable, amend peaceful assembly law
Myanmar (Burma)
April 07, 2016
News Release
Protect interfaith activists, repeal Unlawful Associations Act
Thailand
April 05, 2016
News Release
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
End the use of defamation, judicial harassment to silence critics
Thailand
March 24, 2016
News Release
Ensure Protections for Refugees and Human Trafficking Survivors
United States, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia
March 22, 2016
News Release
Objective rankings critical to end abuses, promote progress
Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia
March 21, 2016
Testimony
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations
Thailand
March 16, 2016
News Release
UN submission calls on Thailand to recognize the rights of refugees
Thailand
March 16, 2016
Submission
Submitted 21 September 2015
Myanmar (Burma)
March 15, 2016
News Release
Government should hold perpetrators of forced labor accountable, compensate survivors
Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma)
March 11, 2016
News Release
Governments should provide full protection to Rohingya, respect right to liberty
Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), Malaysia
March 11, 2016
Report
A Briefing on the Situation of Rohingya Refugees from Myanmar in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia
Thailand
March 07, 2016
News Release
Advocate, journalist, human trafficking survivors, and community activists receive prestigious award
Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia
February 26, 2016
News Release
First-of-its kind effort to save lives at sea in Southeast Asia
Myanmar (Burma)
February 26, 2016
News Release
Scrap plan to sell vacated Muslim-owned properties and businesses in Rakhine State
Thailand
February 24, 2016
News Release
Abuse against migrants, human trafficking, and impunity continues
Myanmar (Burma)
February 17, 2016
News Release
Ma Ba Tha and authorities target interfaith peace activists
Thailand
February 16, 2016
Joint Letter
EU Commissioner for fisheries, maritime affairs and environment
Thailand
February 12, 2016
News Release
De-criminalize defamation; protect human rights defenders and press
Myanmar (Burma)
January 25, 2016
News Release
Government should immediately free wrongfully-imprisoned Letpadan protestors
Thailand
December 24, 2015
News Release
Only 12 of 500 Witnesses Receiving Protection, Others Detained
Myanmar (Burma)
December 11, 2015
News Release
Ensure Freedom of Expression and Protection for Defendants
Thailand
December 09, 2015
News Release
Thailand should reopen inquiry into human trafficking of Rohingya and Bangladeshis
Myanmar (Burma)
December 06, 2015
News Release
Authorities must investigate allegations of torture in detention, uphold due process rights
Myanmar (Burma)
November 27, 2015
Commentary
By David Baulk and Matthew Smith in The Guardian
Myanmar (Burma)
October 29, 2015
Report
Is Genocide Occurring in Myanmar’s Rakhine State? A Legal Analysis
United Nations, Myanmar (Burma)
October 29, 2015
News Release
Legal analysis finds strong evidence of genocide against Rohingya Muslims
Myanmar (Burma)
October 14, 2015
News Release
Free wrongfully imprisoned protesters, hold police and officials accountable for Letpadan crackdown
Myanmar (Burma)
October 10, 2015
Report
Excessive Use of Force and Violations of the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Expression in Letpadan, Bago Region, Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
October 10, 2015
News Release
New report finds police blocked peaceful assembly, used excessive force
Myanmar (Burma), United Nations
September 29, 2015
Report, Submission
23rd Session, November 2015
Myanmar (Burma)
September 29, 2015
News Release
Make clear, genuine commitments on human rights at Universal Periodic Review
United States, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma)
July 28, 2015
News Release
Annual Human Trafficking Report Lets Malaysia, Myanmar off the Hook
Thailand
July 27, 2015
Open Letter
Re: Thailand’s designation in the 2015 Trafficking in Persons Report
Myanmar (Burma)
July 20, 2015
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in The Guardian
Thailand, Malaysia
May 13, 2015
News Release
Closing borders and pushbacks have led to death, abuses
Thailand
May 01, 2015
Open Letter
Re: Thailand’s designation in the 2015 Trafficking in Persons Report
Malaysia, Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar (Burma)
April 22, 2015
Testimony
Testimony of Matthew Smith Executive Director of Fortify Rights
United States, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Bangladesh, Malaysia
April 22, 2015
News Release
More Pressure Needed on Countries Failing to Eliminate Human Trafficking
Myanmar (Burma)
March 19, 2015
News Release
Government using law to crackdown on protesters, collect personal data nationwide
Myanmar (Burma)
March 19, 2015
Report
Ending Guest Registration and Household Inspections in Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
March 14, 2015
News Release
End Ongoing Persecution of Rohingya
Myanmar (Burma), China
March 04, 2015
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in New York Times
Myanmar (Burma)
February 18, 2015
News Release
Kachin man convicted for implicating military in death of his daughter
Myanmar (Burma)
February 03, 2015
News Release
Authorities Threaten Media & Critics for Implicating Military in Kachin Killings
Thailand
January 27, 2015
News Release
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
Thai Prison-Labor Scheme Draws International Condemnation
Thailand
January 14, 2015
Open Letter
Re: Recruitment of Prisoners to Work on Thai Fishing Boats
Myanmar (Burma)
December 18, 2014
News Release
Military Charges Man for Complaint to Human Rights Commission
Myanmar (Burma)
December 08, 2014
Open Letter
Re: Prosecution of Shayam Brang Shawng
Myanmar (Burma)
December 03, 2014
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in Wall Street Journal
Myanmar (Burma)
November 07, 2014
News Release
End Persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State
Myanmar (Burma)
November 06, 2014
News Release
War Crimes Continue with Impunity in Northern Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
August 05, 2014
News Release
End Ongoing Persecution of Rohingya
Myanmar (Burma)
July 03, 2014
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in Al Jazeera America
June 25, 2014
News Release
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 (Burma)
June 09, 2014
News Release
Ongoing War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity, Unmet Humanitarian Needs
Myanmar (Burma)
June 09, 2014
Report
Ending Wartime Torture in Northern Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
March 21, 2014
Commentary
By Taylor Landis in Harvard Law Human Rights Program
Myanmar (Burma)
March 13, 2014
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in The Wall Street Journal
Myanmar (Burma)
February 25, 2014
News Release
Leaked Documents Implicate Government Actors in Crimes Against Humanity
Myanmar (Burma)
February 25, 2014
Report
Ending Abusive State Policies Against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar
Myanmar (Burma)
January 23, 2014
News Release
Grant Immediate Humanitarian Access, Ensure Accountability for Violations
Myanmar (Burma)
December 18, 2013
Commentary
By Taylor Landis in Myanmar Times
November 27, 2013
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in The Huffington Post
Myanmar (Burma), United Nations
October 09, 2013
News Release
Wartime Abuses in Kachin State, “Ethnic Cleansing” in Rakhine State, Tens of Thousands Denied Access to Aid
Myanmar (Burma)
July 16, 2013
Commentary
By Matthew Smith in Asia Times Online