Seven people received prison terms in December 2019 for exercising their freedom of expression, and Myanmar still has to struggle for the right to free expression, according to a report released by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) on January 14.
Those jailed for their free expression are Nay Zar Tun, elder sister of former child soldier Aung Ko Htwe, Khin Cho Naing and Zaw Myint and Peacock Generation slogan chanting group members Zeyar Lwin, Paing Ye Thu, Paing Phyo Min and Hsu Yadana Myint.
Till the end of December last year, 74 political prisoners were detained, 385 political activists in custody were facing trail and 172 were facing trail outside prison, according to the AAPP.
AAPP Yangon Office in-charge Aung Myo Kyaw said the increased arrest and imprisoning of people in relation to free expression is not a good sign.
As democracies protect freedom of expression as a norm, the loss of such a right in Myanmar under democratic transition means deviation from democracy, the report points out.
AAPP therefore calls for promoting free expression and fundamental human rights in respect of the 2008 constitution of Myanmar and international laws.
The report also says the country's deteriorating human rights situation has proved over 70 years of armed conflict and violations of citizen and political rights.
To improve the human rights in the country, the report suggests the need for responsibility and accountability, effective action, rehabilitation and singing of the human rights treaties.
