The Stage

ICAF calls for support for performers in Burma

Published Friday 19 September 2008 at 17:45 by Lalayn Baluch

Equity’s International Committee for Artistic Freedom is to lead a demonstration next week, calling for the release of jailed performers who speak out against political regimes.

The campaign will be part of a wider demonstration supported by Burma Campaign UK, organised to pressure UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon to secure the release of all political prisoners in Burma and call on the ASEAN economic group to support the UN in its demand.

It will take place outside the Thai Embassy, as Thailand is currently chair of the ASEAN.

ICAF will in particular call for the release of leading Burmese poet, comedian, and film-maker Zargana, who faces up to 15 years in prison for “demonstrating disaffection towards the state and government”.

An Equity spokesperson said: “ICAF considers his detention and charges to be a breach of Article 19 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, has called for his immediate and unconditional release, and for the charges to be dropped. Please show your support for performers in Burma.”

The demonstration will take place at 2pm on September 26 outside the Thai Embassy.