A/HRC/56/CRP.8 228. In December 2023, the NUCC approved a Transitional Justice Policy that could provide a foundation for ensuring justice and accountability for gross human rights violations, including sexual and gender-based violence. The policy prioritizes the documentation of human rights violations, the establishment of justice mechanisms in line with international standards, reparations for victims, institutional reform, and reform of the judiciary.100 229. Women human rights defenders are concerned that, although male political leaders may endorse gender inclusive policies on paper, challenges will arise when it comes time to implement them. One woman leader said, “They understand and accept in their heads and brains, but their hearts have not yet accepted that their hands are slow to implement.” She suggested that international actors could help address this challenge by providing funding and technical assistance to opposition leaders and institutions and encouraging them to develop strategies and budgets for policy implementation. She said: We’re happy with this progress compared to five to seven years ago, but my concern is we don’t only want it on a piece of paper. Right now, we can’t do much, but we can monitor and advocate. When the time comes, we need to be well equipped to implement [these policies]. Many of us are happy but what next? X. Conclusion and recommendations “We’re thinking about transformation, system change, attitude change. We have been brought up in a patriarchal society so change will not be quick. We have to be persistent. Persistence is key for us. We cannot give up.” -Women’s human rights defender 230. The February 2021 military coup and three years of SAC violence and oppression have spelled disaster for women, girls, and LGBT people in Myanmar. Junta forces have perpetrated widespread sexual and gender-based violence. Armed conflict, displacement, and economic collapse have undermined the health, independence, and security of women, girls, and LGBT people. Domestic violence, trafficking, early or forced marriage, and sexual exploitation are on the rise. Political prisoners face gendered abuse and hypersexualized forms of torture. Political progress toward gender equality has halted and reversed. 231. Despite this unfolding tragedy, women and LGBT leaders have begun to lay the foundation for a democratic Myanmar rooted in principles of equality and nondiscrimination. Their leadership on the frontlines of the revolution and the provision of humanitarian aid is challenging gender norms and historic discrimination. They are demanding a place at the table in discussions about Myanmar’s future and insisting on reforms to protect the rights of vulnerable and marginalized communities. 232. Still, there is much work to be done. Armed resistance forces, local governance structures, and key revolutionary institutions remain dominated by men, and women and LGBT people struggle to make their voices heard. Ethnic women, including Rohingya women and girls, face acute barriers to full and meaningful inclusion. Sexual and genderbased violence remain pervasive, including within communities and areas controlled by opposition groups. Survivors rarely receive adequate support, and perpetrators are almost never held accountable. 233. The international community must do more to support women, girls, and LGBT people in Myanmar. States must act to isolate the SAC and ensure accountability for serious international crimes, including widespread sexual violence. UN agencies, humanitarian 100 National Unity Consultative Council, Transitional Justice Policy, 4 December 2023. 49