Washington, DC - The United States is concerned by reports that the Government of Burma has filed criminal charges against peaceful protesters engaged in campaign activities advocating reform of the National Education Law. We call for the immediate, unconditional release of all individuals being detained in the country as a result of exercising their right to peacefully assemble.

Transparency, accountability, and justice are vital for the Burmese Government’s expressed goals of social stability, peace, and democracy. We strongly urge an impartial and credible investigation into the events of March 5 and 10, in cooperation with civil society, that would hold accountable all those involved in the violence, including security forces who applied excessive force. Only an impartial investigation and accounting will advance the country's goals of mutual trust and national reconciliation and avoid deepening division.