Justice for Myanmar has been named a 2025 laureate of the Right Livelihood Award, an honor recognizing global change-makers who work toward peace, justice, and sustainability.
The group, which advocates for human rights and democracy in Myanmar, accepted the award in recognition of the courage and sacrifice of the people of Myanmar, who have resisted the military junta for nearly five years since the attempted coup in February 2021.
The award serves as a reminder that the world has not forgotten the struggle of the Myanmar people for federal democracy, peace, and justice. Since the coup, the military has carried out widespread violence, including mass killings, airstrikes, torture, and the burning of villages—with children increasingly among the victims.
The military’s actions are sustained by international support from governments, corporations, banks, and local cronies that continue to fund and supply the junta. Many of the same military leaders are also accused of genocide against the Rohingya, which is under investigation by the International Criminal Court.
As the regime prepares a planned election for December 2025, it has intensified violence against civilians in an attempt to crush resistance—a move that has so far failed to suppress the pro-democracy movement.
Justice for Myanmar and other civil society groups are working to expose and disrupt the networks that support the junta, including through corporate accountability and arms embargo campaigns. These efforts are fueled by the bravery of people across Myanmar, who boycott junta-linked products, protest despite extreme risks, and document atrocities.
The award highlights that Myanmar’s struggle is part of a broader global fight for justice. The group calls for increased international support from individuals, movements, and governments to help dismantle the military’s control and bring lasting peace and democracy to the country.
