Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, the world has been experiencing multiple political insurrections, some of which being severe threats against democracy. Myanmar was no exception to this. In the morning of February 1,  the Myanmar military launched a coup d’état against the democratically elected leader Aung San Su Kyi and her party, the National League for Democracy (NLD). Within days, the military successfully seized control of the government and removed Aung San Su Kyi and the NLD from power. However, the people of Myanmar refused to abandon their burning passion and pursuit for democracy. The unarmed citizens stood up against the armed military that opened fire against them. These citizens did this against the illegitimate government, regardless of their occupations and identities, all united under the goal of restoring democracy. Mr. Kyaw Moe Tun, Myanmar’s ambassador to the United Nations, was one of them.

On February 26, amidst the bloody struggle of the Burmese people, Mr. Kyaw Moe Tun delivered an extraordinary statement of defiance against the oppressive regime on behalf of the protestors and the fallen heroes of Myanmar. With a shaking yet dedicated voice, he urged the United Nations Security Council and the International community to “use any means necessary to take action against Myanmar military and to provide safety and security for the people of Myanmar.” He demanded further stronger possible support for the Burmese people to force the military to  “stop oppressing the innocent people, to return the state power to the people, and to restore democracy.” He put the preservation of democracy and the safety of his people before his safety and career. When he ended his speech with the same anti-authoritarian salute adopted by the protestors, the UN conference room was soon filled with applause that praised his courage to stick to his conviction and uncover the sufferings of his people.

“I have to do something for people and the people of Myanmar. So I waited to have this kind of opportunity to deliver the statement and I’d like to have it to have maximum impact,” said Mr. Kyaw Moe Tun in a recent interview with France 24. When he was questioned if he is concerned about being charged with “high treason” by the military regime, he replied “I should say thank you… Millions of people came up to the street and expressed their disappointment with the military coup demanding the release of our leaders… I am really proud of it. I am totally with the people of Myanmar longing for democracy.”

Here, Mr. Kyaw Moe Tun provides a valuable message that all students dreaming of becoming an ambassador should forever bear in mind. He pursues the will and the benefit of the people, not the interests of the government. He spreads and protects the voice of the people in the vast forest of the international community. His courageous voice has now created an impactful echo throughout the world, further spreading awareness of the need for active support for the democratic people of Myanmar. Mr. Kyaw Moe Tun’s courage and dedication will serve as an inspiration for future generations pursuing careers in international affairs.