The Council of the EU recently imposed a seventh round of Myanmar-related sanctions in response to the escalating violence and continuing human rights violations in that country, including a deadly airstrike by the Myanmar armed forces (“Tatmadaw”) that killed at least 171 people in April 2023. The Council sanctioned six government officials, including two members of the State Administration Council (“SAC”), and 1 state-owned entity, the No. 2 Mining Enterprise (“ME 2”), which regulates production and marketing in Myanmar’s non-ferrous metal sector. ME 2 is controlled by, and generates revenue for, the Tatmadaw and, according to the Council, has engaged in projects linked to violence against civilians and human rights violations, including the confiscation of land and forced relocation of certain civilians.
The new designees are now subject to asset freezes and travel bans in the EU, and EU persons and entities are prohibited from making funds available to them. Other restrictive measures that remain in place against Myanmar include an embargo on arms and equipment; export restrictions on equipment that might be used for internal repression; export bans on dual-use goods for Myanmar’s military and border guard police; and a ban on military training and cooperation with the Tatmadaw.
Council of the EU Press Release | Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1497 | Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1502