Free Expression Myanmar (FEM) Submission to the UN Human Rights Council on the Universal Periodic Review 2020 Third Cycle for Myanmar 6 July 2020 About Free Expression Myanmar Free Expression Myanmar (FEM) defends freedom of expression and freedom of information (FoEI) in Myanmar. FEM is an association created in 2017. FEM aims to increase knowledge among decision-makers by publishing and training on high quality research and policy recommendations based on international standards. FEM aims to shift attitudes among decision-makers by delivering conferences, trainings, workshops, roundtables. FEM aims to encourage progressive behaviour among decision-makers by conducting high-level advocacy with decision-makers, including on individuals' cases. Website: www.freeExpressionMyanmar.org Email: coordinator@freeExpressionMyanmar.org Address: Free Expression Myanmar (FEM), Flat B, 7th Floor, 531 Myittar Road, South Okkalapa, Yangon, Myanmar. Introduction 1. This submission will focus on FEM’s expertise on FoEI in Myanmar. It will assess implementation of previous UPR recommendations, including progressive and regressive actions taken since 2015. As per the guidance, and as seen in the endnotes, it will prioritise first-hand information from FEM’s significant primary research, as well as FEM’s analysis and recommendations. The submission will be divided up into sub-sections based on FEM’s areas of expertise. 2. [Word count: 2810 / 2815] International obligations 3. 27 countries:1 “Ratify the ICCPR” – No implementation. No change. The State has repeatedly committed to ratifying the ICCPR both publicly and to the UN.2 However, the State has not done so and a parliamentary attempt was not supported by the government.3 4. 10 countries:4 “Cooperate with UN Special Rapporteurs” – Partial implementation. Regression. The State has engaged with UN Special Rapporteurs’ communications but has failed to cooperate with them, the Myanmar Rapporteur in particular. The State has also continued to encourage disinformation about and hostility towards the Myanmar Rapporteur, her role, and her statements. www.FreeExpressionMyanmar.org – www.facebook.com/FreeExpressionMyanmar - coordinator@FreeExpressionMyanmar.org - page 1