UN-backed IIMM at risk from funding cuts
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Htet Nadi (NP News) - Dec 8
According to the New Humanitarian outlet’s report, the UN-backed Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), tasked with collecting evidence of the country’s worst alleged crimes, faces severe funding shortfalls that could cut over a third of its staff.
In the UN’s proposed 2026 budget, funding for the IIMM would be cut by around 15 percent, and an expected drop in voluntary contributions could further shrink resources. The reductions could force the team to eliminate up to 27 of its 77 positions, potentially delaying its investigations.
Myanmar has made its stance on the IIMM clear, stating that it has not recognized the IIMM since its establishment in 2019.
It is reported that the IIMM spends more than $15 million annually, despite the UN’s funding crisis.
Some countries are using the Human Rights Council to grant the IIMM a flawed mandate, not only allowing the body to selectively ignore certain acts of violence for political purposes but also creating a mechanism through which they can exert influence over Myanmar.
Misrepresenting the situation in Myanmar not only encourages terrorism but also contributes to further violence and instability and hinders the government’s efforts to maintain peace and security in the country.
Myanmar government has already expressed strong opposition to the mandate of the IIMM and all its reports, including its annual reports to the Human Rights Council. –