Senator Penny Wong. Source : Office of the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The Australian Government has announced the introduction of financial and travel sanctions on individuals from Myanmar and Iran.
The sanctions will impact finances, and ban travel to Australia for individuals who have been found to be responsible for “egregious” human rights abuses and violations in Myanmar.
Sanctions on entities and individuals within and from Iran that are enabling the repression of Iranian people are also to be implemented.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong issued a statement on the announcement, stating the sanctions are to help combat human rights violations and cement Australia’s stance.
“Over the past two years Australia, ASEAN, and international partners have repeatedly called on the Myanmar regime to engage in constructive dialogue and find a peaceful and durable resolution to the ongoing crisis.” Senator Wong said.
“Despite these calls, the regime has continued its anti-democratic actions against the people of Myanmar, including violence and recent steps targeting opposition voices.
“The military regime has responded violently to any form of political expression, including peaceful protests.
“There is evidence thousands of civilians, including children, have been jailed, tortured, or killed.” She said.
Regarding Iran, Senator Wong announced Magnitsky-style sanctions to be imposed on 16 individuals and one entity.
“Among those subject to Magnitsky-style human rights sanctions are the Basij Cooperative Foundation, and senior law enforcement, political and military figures – including those within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Crops (IRGC) – involved in the violent crackdown on protests following the death of Mahsa ‘Jina’ Amini and the continued oppression of the people of Iran.” Senator Wong said.
“Additionally, Australia is joining partners to impose additional targeted financial sanctions on four Iranian individuals and four entities involved in the production and supply of drones to Russia.
“Australia stands with the people of Myanmar, the people of Iran, and with the people of Ukraine.
“We employ every strategy at our disposal towards upholding human rights – ranging from dialogue and diplomacy to sanctions – consistent with our values and our interests.” She said.
Iranian drones have been supplied to Russian forces for the fight between Russia and Ukraine.
The drones have been used to target civilians and civilian infrastructure within Ukraine.
There are 16 members of the Myanmar State Administration Council (SAC) who have been sanctioned, as they are found directly responsible for the coup d’état that occurred two years ago.
Additionally, Myanmar Economic Public Holdings Ltd (MEHL) and Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) are to have financial sanctions imposed on them.
