BACKGROUND: Sanctions against Myanmar

Feb 12, 2012, 8:18 GMT

Berlin - Myanmar has been subject to sanctions for decades because of the poor human rights record of the military junta that ruled between 1988-2010.

The pro-military civilian government that took office last year has made reforms in the hope of ending sanctions imposed by the United States, European Union and other governments.

The US has repeatedly tightened its sanctions since the junta's deadly crackdown on 1988 pro-democracy demonstrations. They include the freezing of assets, bans on business ties and barring the entry of government officials.

Washington has said it will match Myanmar's reforms with positive steps towards normalized ties.

US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said during a visit to Myanmar in December that the first civilian government in 50 years must first free all political prisoners, grant more political and social rights, and end military offensives against ethnic minorities.

On January 13, following the surprise release of some 300 political prisoners, Washington announced its decision to appoint an ambassador to Yangon. The post has been vacant since 1988.

The European Union in 1990 imposed sanctions that include a weapons embargo, the freezing of bank accounts and travel bans for high-ranking officials. Companies headquartered in the EU are also forbidden from extending credit to Myanmar firms.

On January 23, the EU agreed to phase out its travel bans on Myanmar government officials.

'The council welcomes the remarkable programme of political reform undertaken by the government and parliament of Myanmar,' the ministers said. 'The EU wishes to assist Myanmar in advancing reforms.'

The ministers agreed to start by suspending the visa bans on President Thein Sein, his vice-presidents and cabinet members, as well as the country's parliament speakers.

Other governments that have imposed sanctions include Australia, which blocks senior military officers from travelling to the country and the export of weapons to Myanmar.

Last month, Australia eased the penalties due to the South-East Asian country's moves towards democratic reforms. It reduced the number of people affected by its financial and travel sanctions, including ministers and deputy ministers who have left government and tourism officials.

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