Myanmar Starts Defence in Landmark Genocide Case at UN Court

Myanmar has commenced its defence at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a landmark case concerning allegations of genocide against the Rohingya Muslim minority. The proceedings mark a critical phase in one of the most significant international legal challenges faced by the country in recent years.

The case, brought before the UN’s highest court, examines claims that Myanmar’s military carried out systematic violence, killings, and forced displacement during operations in Rakhine State, driving hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh. Myanmar has denied accusations of genocide, arguing that its actions were part of legitimate security operations against insurgent threats.

Legal experts say the hearings are closely watched by the international community, as the outcome could set important precedents for state accountability under international law. While the case is expected to take years to conclude, it has already intensified global scrutiny of Myanmar’s human rights record and its obligations under the Genocide Convention.