The Intelligence from The Economist Trial run: genocide claims against Myanmar
Feb 21, 2022
Susanna Savage, South Asia correspondent for The Economist, dives into The Gambia's groundbreaking genocide case against Myanmar, uncovering the ongoing plight of the Rohingya people. She discusses the severe repercussions of the military coup and the dire conditions in refugee camps. Meanwhile, Matt Kaplan shares fascinating research about how noise pollution negatively affects plant health, exploring the surprising ways that plants react to urban stressors. Together, they shed light on crucial geopolitical issues and the silent struggles of nature.
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Gambia's Unique Genocide Case
- The Gambia is pursuing a genocide case against Myanmar at the ICJ on behalf of the Organization for Islamic Corporation.
- This is the first time a country unconnected to the alleged crimes has brought such a case under the Genocide Convention.
ICJ Ruling and Enforcement Challenges
- While the ICJ ruled in the Gambia's favor to protect the Rohingya, it lacks enforcement power.
- The UN Security Council could enforce rulings, but China and Russia's opposition creates a deadlock.
Potential Impact of Gambia's Win
- A win for the Gambia at the ICJ could pressure other UN bodies to act against Myanmar and increase political costs.
- Demands could include reparations to the Rohingya and ensuring their safe return, but the trial will take years.