Media release

16 May 2008

Burma referendum and humanitarian assistance

It is deeply distressing that the Burmese regime saw fit to push ahead with its sham referendum instead of focusing its energies on the massive humanitarian tragedy in the wake of Cyclone Nargis.

The result of the referendum to date announced by the state-controlled media in Burma makes it seem certain that the constitutional changes are set to pass. This will only further entrench military rule.

Regrettably, neither the referendum process nor its ultimate outcome signals any intention by the Burmese regime to listen to the will of the Burmese people on their future.

Australia has consistently called for the full and free participation of all political players in Burma in a political reform process supported by the international community.

Meanwhile, the Australian Government remains deeply concerned at ever increasing estimates of the number of Burmese people who have been so severely affected by Cyclone Nargis.

Access into Burma for aid workers and supplies remains the greatest challenge. While the international community is responding well to the immense needs, if the Burmese regime were prepared to fully open its doors to international experts, a substantial increase in delivery of humanitarian assistance would be possible.

In cooperation and collaboration with our regional and international partners, including ASEAN which is holding a special Foreign Ministers’ meeting on 19 May to discuss the crisis in Burma, Australia continues to use every diplomatic channel available to strongly urge the regime to open up so that the urgent needs of the Burmese people can be met.

The international community’s willingness to assist the Burmese people has today been underlined by the significant increase in the United Kingdom’s offer of assistance, to an overall commitment of $35m, the largest single commitment to date ahead of Australia’s $25m.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555