Detailed MoFA statement on Covid-19 preparations in Rakhine State. Much ink spilled on Arakan Army terrorist designation. Whatever the merits of this in addressing the conflict (likely to be counterproductive), it has serious negative impact on Covid-19 response. 1/3 https://twitter.com/uehrdinrakhine/status/1248642008526262278

Now more than ever, humanitarians & health workers need access to conflict areas & info needs to flow across conflict lines. Govt criminalizing any contact with AA under counterterrorism act, & now moving quickly to prosecute journalists for interviews, hampers Covid response 2/3

Recommendation to government: make unambiguous public announcement that contact with AA (or other armed groups) for any humanitarian, health or information gathering/media purpose will not give rise to legal action. 3/3