The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Yanghee Lee [official profile] on Wednesday called for [statement] for the Human Rights Council (HRC) [official website] to support an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) [official website] into alleged human rights abuses against the Rohingya community.

“I strongly recommend the persons allegedly responsible for the violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law be investigated and prosecuted by the ICC or a credible mechanism,” said Lee.  She also called for the HRC to “establish an accountability mechanism under the auspices of the United Nations without delay.”  

This mechanism, according to Lee, would investigate abuses, determine the criminal liability of the perpetrators, and support victims.

Lee expressed disappointment that the Security Council has not yet referred Myanmar to the ICC.  She said that none of the investigations by Myanmar have reached international standards and were likely initiated to distract the international community.

Earlier this month the UN signed [JURIST report] an agreement with Myanmar that could lead to the return of Rohingya refugees. In May Lee urged [JURIST report] civilian protection amid increasing violence in Myanmar.  In April the UN and Bangladesh agreed [JURIST report] on  voluntary return of Rohinga refugees.