Violence Against Citizens in Burma Must End Now

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Center for Victims of Torture™ (CVT) today issued this statement in response to ongoing violence in the wake of the overthrow of the government of Burma.

“It has been horrifying to watch the overthrow of the government of Burma and the violence that has followed, only to have that horror compounded as security forces began brutal and deadly attacks against citizens as they peacefully protest this military coup.

“I am heartened to see the U.S. government is now taking additional steps calling on the military to cease its violence and restore democracy. The State Department has made designations to the State Administrative Council, with the intent to hold the military leaders accountable and to ensure that their unacceptable actions have consequences.

“My thoughts are with CVT’s many clients and staff who are from Burma as they cope during these very difficult days. CVT stands with the people of Burma – their lives and their will must be respected and democracy restored.” -Curt Goering, CVT executive director

-###-

The Center for Victims of Torture is a nonprofit organization headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with offices in Atlanta, GA, and Washington, D.C.; and healing initiatives in Africa and the Middle East. Visit www.cvt.org.