By 
30-04-2026 | Oluwatobi Ibikunle | Asia Team Researcher, Global Human Rights Defence.
Timor Leste’s judiciary has opened legal proceedings against Myanmar Junta, including its chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. The case was filed by the ethnic Chin Human Rights Organisation (CHRO). A senior prosecutor has been appointed to examine the case. Members of the Myanmar junta are accused of killings, rape, indiscriminate attacks, and other grave crimes.
This case was opened under the principle of universal jurisdiction. This principle enables states to investigate and prosecute those responsible for grave international crimes, regardless of where the crime was committed or the nationality of the victims and suspects.
Salai Za Uk Ling, the CHRO’s executive director, said they look forward to working with the Timorese authorities to pursue justice. Given Timor-Leste’s history and the indignities it endured during its struggle for independence, there is a strong sense of solidarity with the people of Myanmar.
Timor-Leste became a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in October 2025, a regional bloc that includes Myanmar. This marks the first time a Member has taken such action against another Member State.
