A/HRC/19/67 restrictions in access to recruitment centres, military camps and training centres. The issue of underage recruitment was also addressed by the Committee on the Rights of the Child. 5 82. International financial institutions are re-engaging with Myanmar. In its statement at the conclusion of an article IV mission to Myanmar (9 to 25 January 2012), the International Monetary Fund indicated that the new Government was facing a “historic opportunity to jump-start the development process and lift living standards”. The Government’s plans to reorient spending to health and education were welcomed. The World Bank is working with the Government to undertake analysis of its economic infrastructure and with civil society organizations to support their efforts to encourage social accountability, transparency and open communications in Myanmar. It will also explore ways to support the peace process in border areas through technical assistance. 83. OHCHR conducted a training workshop for Government officials and members of the national human rights Commission in Yangon on 14 and 15 November 2011 on international human rights law and mechanisms, including follow-up to universal periodic review recommendations. OHCHR has translated some human rights instruments, which will serve as an important advocacy tool for stakeholders in Myanmar on international human rights standards. The Special Rapporteur welcomes the cooperation and engagement with OHCHR on human rights issues, and encourages Myanmar to continue to seek technical assistance and cooperation from the international community on international human rights standards and mechanisms. VII. Conclusions 84. The steps taken by the Government have had a positive impact on the human rights situation in Myanmar. Nonetheless, many serious human rights issues encompassing the broad range of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights remain and should be addressed. There is also a risk of backtracking on the progress achieved to date. 85. At this crucial stage in the country’s history, sustained action is necessary for further change. The Government should intensify efforts to implement its commitments and fulfil its international human rights obligations. In this regard, the Government should cooperate with and seek assistance from the international community, in particular the United Nations, in order to meet the challenges and opportunities before it. Prior to its assumption of the Chairpersonship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2014, the Special Rapporteur encourages Myanmar to demonstrate more concrete progress in improving its human rights situation. 86. The international community must remain engaged, closely follow developments, and support and assist the Government during this important time. The Special Rapporteur reaffirms his willingness to work constructively and cooperatively with Myanmar to improve the human rights situation of its people. He hopes to return to Myanmar before he presents his next report to the General Assembly in 2012. 5 18 Ibid., para. 81.

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