Canadians and citizens the world over will not accept a Canadian company lobbying on behalf of the military in Myanmar. Ari Ben Menashe is notorious for representing brutal regimes with impunity. It's time for us to demand that Canada's sanctions are expanded to call out specific Canadian companies engaging in or advising or representing the Myanmar military in any capacity.

The Myanmar Military coordinated a coup d'etat in early February on the eve of Aung San Suu Kyi's NLD party convening the new democratically elected Parliament.  Millions of people all across Myanmar have been peacefully protesting at great risk to their safety. As of May 16, 2021, at least 796 unarmed civilians have been killed. Thousands of civilians, including journalists, have been tortured or jailed. Their fates are unknown.  These numbers are likely to continue to grow without strong international action and solidarity.

Canada was quick to denounce the coup and quick to introduce sanctions against individuals in the military. But the sanctions ring a bit hollow if a Canadian lobbyist can boast about a $2 million contract to represent the military's "side". Menashe is not about to apply for an exemption for his business to work with the junta. Canada's presence on the world stage must continue to be a source for good.  Therefore, Menashe must be singled out with other sanctioned individuals. We can certainly express our genuine support for the Myanmar people this way.

 - Image provided by Calvin Yin