Agreement Between the Chin National Front (CNF) and Union-Level Peace Working Committee at the 2nd Round of Peace Talks

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Country/entity: Myanmar
Region: Asia and Pacific
Agreement name: Agreement Between the Chin National Front (CNF) and Union-Level Peace Working Committee at the 2nd Round of Peace Talks
Date: 9 Dec 2012
Agreement status: Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement: Yes
Agreement/conflict level: Intrastate/intrastate conflict
Myanmar Conflict (1948 - )
Internal conflict, mostly along ethno-political fault lines, has been a constant feature of Myanmar since its independence in 1948. The conflict has two distinct dynamics. First a struggle between an authoritarian government and a pro-democracy opposition which has the characteristics of authoritarian conflicts; and second a stuggle between the government and ethnic armed groups which has the characteristics of an identity conflict. The two oldest and strongest militias fighting the government are the Karen National Union (KNU), which has remained active since the late 1940s, and the Kachin Independence Organisation, which was formed in the early 1960s. In total, here are more than a dozen mostly ethnic-based guerrilla groups active throughout the country. Especially in the period of junta dictatorship that lasted until 2011 the government attempted to crush the rebellions, which led to numerous human rights violations. With the start of democratic reforms in the aftermath of the 2010 elections, peace negotiations have taken place and resulted in the signing of various agreements, although conflicts remain active.
Stage: Framework/substantive - partial
Conflict nature: Government/territory
Peace process: Myanmar ceasefires process with ethnic armed groups
Parties: Page 2, Untitled Preamble:...the Chin National Front and the Union Peace Working Committee signed this agreement on 9 December 2012

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 28. The following signatories duly entered their signatures having duly agreed on the above points.
[Note: Names, titles and signatures of members of both parties as well as observers below are intentionally omitted in the translation]
Third parties: Page 2, Untitled Preamble:...having been witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility Committee, Union-level Peace Facilitating Committee and observers.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 28. The following signatories duly entered their signatures having duly agreed on the above points.
[Note: Names, titles and signatures of members of both parties as well as observers below are intentionally omitted in the translation]
Description: A short agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level peace working committee. The agreement covers provisions for Chin self-determination, reconciliation and human rights, military arrangements, and development issues.

Agreement document: MN_121209_CNF and Union-Level Peace Working Committee 2nd Round.pdf (opens in new tab) | Download PDF

Groups

Children/youth: No specific mention.
Disabled persons: No specific mention.
Elderly/age: No specific mention.
Migrant workers: No specific mention.
Racial/ethnic/national group: Groups→Racial/ethnic/national group→Rhetorical
Page 1, Untitled Preamble: ...Working towards an agreement for 'Union Accord' between the Union government and all ethnic nationalities through a national conference based on the Spirit of Panglong.
...the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue, 01): ...Burma being founded by multi-ethnic groups, the parties agreed to negotiate towards re-establishing a genuine Union guaranteeing equality and self-determination consistent with the original intent at the Panglong Conference between General Aung San and the ethnic nationalities.
Groups→Racial/ethnic/national group→Anti-discrimination
Page 5, Agreement on Social and Cultural Matters. 24: It is agreed that in the appointment or promotion in civil service position there shall be no discrimination on the basis ethnicity, religion or gender.
Groups→Racial/ethnic/national group→Substantive
Page 3, Military Agreements, 07: With the view of building sustainable peace in the Union of Burma, it is agreed to further discuss matters regarding military code of conducts involving the Burma Army and other ethnic armed groups at a Union-level political dialogue that involves all ethnic nationalities in Burma.
Religious groups: Groups→Religious groups→Anti-discrimination
Page 5, Agreement on Social and Cultural Matters, 24: It is agreed that in the appointment or promotion in civil service position there shall be no discrimination on the basis ethnicity, religion or gender.
Groups→Religious groups→Substantive
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23: With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Indigenous people: No specific mention.
Other groups: No specific mention.
Refugees/displaced persons: No specific mention.
Social class: No specific mention.

Gender

Women, girls and gender: Page 5, Agreement on Social and Cultural Matters, 24: It is agreed that in the appointment or promotion in civil service position there shall be no discrimination on the basis ethnicity, religion or gender.
Men and boys: No specific mention.
LGBTI: No specific mention.
Family: No specific mention.

State definition

Nature of state (general): Page 1, Untitled Preamble: ...As contained in paragraph 4 of the May 7 2012 agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level Peace Negotiating Team, the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 07: With the view of building sustainable peace in the Union of Burma...
State configuration: No specific mention.
Self determination: Page 1, Untitled Preamble: ...As contained in paragraph 4 of the May 7 2012 agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level Peace Negotiating Team, the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue, 01): ...Burma being founded by multi-ethnic groups, the parties agreed to negotiate towards re-establishing a genuine Union guaranteeing equality and self-determination consistent with the original intent at the Panglong Conference between General Aung San and the ethnic nationalities.
Referendum: No specific mention.
State symbols: No specific mention.
Independence/secession: No specific mention.
Accession/unification: No specific mention.
Border delimitation: No specific mention.
Cross-border provision: No specific mention.

Governance

Political institutions (new or reformed): No specific mention.
Elections: No specific mention.
Electoral commission: No specific mention.
Political parties reform: No specific mention.
Civil society: Page 2, Untitled Preamble:...having been witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility Committee, Union-level Peace Facilitating Committee and observers.

Page 3, Agreements Concerning Development, 12: Both the Union Government and the Government of Chin State shall make every effort to assist the Chin National Front in its endeavors towards the development of Chin State. To this end, it is agreed that the Chin National Front has the power to establish a committee or organization to carry out development works in cooperation with domestic and International Non-Governmental Organizations.

Page 3, Agreements Concerning Development, 13: In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:
(a) The Chin State Government and Chin National Front shall have the power, through consultation, to determine the terms of reference for the implementation of a system in which locals determine their own development priorities

Page 4, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23: With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 25: The parties agreed to issue licenses for registration and production of newspapers, journals, magazines, newsletters, radio, internet and television programs and other works relating to community-based organizations in accordance with the law.
Traditional/religious leaders: No specific mention.
Public administration: Page 5, Agreement on Social and Cultural Matters, 24: It is agreed that in the appointment or promotion in civil service position there shall be no discrimination on the basis ethnicity, religion or gender.
Constitution: No specific mention.

Power sharing

Political power sharing: No specific mention.
Territorial power sharing: Power sharing→Territorial power sharing→Local/municipal government
Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 12: Both the Union Government and the Government of Chin State shall make every effort to assist the Chin National Front in its endeavors towards the development of Chin State. To this end, it is agreed that the Chin National Front has the power to establish a committee or organization to carry out development works in cooperation with domestic and International Non-Governmental Organizations.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 13: In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:
(a) The Chin State Government and Chin National Front shall have the power, through consultation, to determine the terms of reference for the implementation of a system in which locals determine their own development priorities.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 26: The Chin National Front shall have the right to freely seek funding for the implementation of development works within Chin State.
Economic power sharing: No specific mention.
Military power sharing: Power sharing→Military power sharing→Proportionality
Page 3, Military Agreements, 8. ...(c) It is agreed to have the presence of only the Burma Army and the Chin National Army within the Chin State.

Human rights and equality

Human rights/RoL general: Page 2, Untitled Preamble:...To establish a lasting peace in the Union based on the universal principles of freedom, equality, and justice, the Chin National Front and the Union Peace Working Committee signed this agreement on 9 December 2012 having been witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility Committee, Union-level Peace Facilitating Committee and observers.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 05): Upon consultation between the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front, it is agreed to form an independent Chin human rights committee. Such a committee will report to the National Human Rights Commission, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front. The reporting shall have its basis on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights and humanitarian laws.
Bill of rights/similar: No specific mention.
Treaty incorporation: Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 05) Upon consultation between the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front, it is agreed to form an independent Chin human rights committee. Such a committee will report to the National Human Rights Commission, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front. The reporting shall have its basis on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights and humanitarian laws.
Civil and political rights: Human rights and equality→Civil and political rights→Equality
Page 1, Untitled Preamble: ...As contained in paragraph 4 of the May 7 2012 agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level Peace Negotiating Team, the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.

Page 2, Untitled Preamble:...To establish a lasting peace in the Union based on the universal principles of freedom, equality, and justice, the Chin National Front and the Union Peace Working Committee signed this agreement on 9 December 2012 having been witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility Committee, Union-level Peace Facilitating Committee and observers.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue, 01): ...Burma being founded by multi-ethnic groups, the parties agreed to negotiate towards re-establishing a genuine Union guaranteeing equality and self-determination consistent with the original intent at the Panglong Conference between General Aung San and the ethnic nationalities.
Human rights and equality→Civil and political rights→Freedom of movement
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Human rights and equality→Civil and political rights→Thought, opinion, conscience and religion
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Human rights and equality→Civil and political rights→Other
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Socio-economic rights: Human rights and equality→Socio-economic rights→Property
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.

Rights related issues

Citizenship: No specific mention.
Democracy: Page 1, Untitled Preamble: ...As contained in paragraph 4 of the May 7 2012 agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level Peace Negotiating Team, the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.
Detention procedures: No specific mention.
Media and communication: Rights related issues→Media and communication→Media roles
Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 14. It is agreed that the Chin National Front, the Union Government and the Chin State Government shall cooperate for the establishment of a Community Radio broadcast program for each Chin dialectal group with the view of facilitating better interactions amongst the Chins, as well as, promoting Chin media.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 25. The parties agreed to issue licenses for registration and production of newspapers, journals, magazines, newsletters, radio, internet and television programs and other works relating to community-based organizations in accordance with the law.
Mobility/access: Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 13: In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:
...(c) The Union Government shall facilitate visas to enable such international experts to freely travel in and out of the country.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 17: In order to facilitate easier communication access within Chin State the Union Government shall construct at least one airport in an appropriate location after conducting a field assessment.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 18: It is agreed to further develop a national highway that connects all the towns in Chin State: spanning from Tonzang Township in the north to Paletwa Township in the south.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 20: With the view of promoting tourism in the region, the Union Government shall make it possible for international tourists to freely travel in and out of Chin State.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 27. With the view of facilitating ease of travels and promoting the social and educational development of the Chin people residing outside of Chin State, the Union Government, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall cooperate together in gradually building 'Chin State Guest Houses' in Naypyidaw, Yangon, Mandalay, Pakhuku, Kalay, Sittwe and Seih Town.
Protection measures: No specific mention.
Other: No specific mention.

Rights institutions

NHRI: Rights institutions→NHRI→New or fundamentally revised NHRI
Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 05) Upon consultation between the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front, it is agreed to form an independent Chin human rights committee. Such a committee will report to the National Human Rights Commission, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front. The reporting shall have its basis on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights and humanitarian laws.
Regional or international human rights institutions: No specific mention.

Justice sector reform

Criminal justice and emergency law: No specific mention.
State of emergency provisions: No specific mention.
Judiciary and courts: No specific mention.
Prisons and detention: No specific mention.
Traditional Laws: No specific mention.

Socio-economic reconstruction

Development or socio-economic reconstruction: Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Socio-economic development
Page 3, Military Agreements, 11: It is agreed that the Chin people living within the areas designated for both the Chin National Front and the Chin National Army shall enjoy the benefit of receiving direct aid from Non Governmental Organizations and the international community for their development, with the permission of the Union Government.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 12: Both the Union Government and the Government of Chin State shall make every effort to assist the Chin National Front in its endeavors towards the development of Chin State. To this end, it is agreed that the Chin National Front has the power to establish a committee or organization to carry out development works in cooperation with domestic and International Non-Governmental Organizations.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 13: In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:
(a) The Chin State Government and Chin National Front shall have the power, through consultation, to determine the terms of reference for the implementation of a system in which locals determine their own development priorities
(b) The findings of hired competent international experts shall be presented to the Chin National Front, the Union Government and the Chin State Government before June 2003. (Translator's Note: Not unclear because of the original Burmese texts at the beginning of the sentence)
(c) The Union Government shall facilitate visas to enable such international experts to freely travel in and out of the country.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 15. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together to promote information technology and computer skills in Chin State.

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 19. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together in ensuring that the Chin public receive basic services such as water and electricity; food security, health and education.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 26. The Chin National Front shall have the right to freely seek funding for the implementation of development works within Chin State.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters, 27. With the view of facilitating ease of travels and promoting the social and educational development of the Chin people residing outside of Chin State, the Union Government, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall cooperate together in gradually building 'Chin State Guest Houses' in Naypyidaw, Yangon, Mandalay, Pakhuku, Kalay, Sittwe and Seih Town.
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Infrastructure and reconstruction
Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 18. It is agreed to further develop a national highway that connects all the towns in Chin State: spanning from Tonzang Township in the north to Paletwa Township in the south.
National economic plan: No specific mention.
Natural resources: Page 3, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 06): ...It is agreed that in extracting natural resources from above and underground within Chin State, the principles of Free Prior and Informed Consent shall be observed in accordance with the desire of the Chin people.
International funds: No specific mention.
Business: Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 13: In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:
...(b) The findings of hired competent international experts shall be presented to the Chin National Front, the Union Government and the Chin State Government before June 2003. (Translator's Note: Not unclear because of the original Burmese texts at the beginning of the sentence)

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 16. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together to establish a Special Economic Zone within Chin State

Page 4, Agreements Concerning Development, 20. With the view of promoting tourism in the region, the Union Government shall make it possible for international tourists to freely travel in and out of Chin State.
Taxation: No specific mention.
Banks: No specific mention.

Land, property and environment

Land reform/rights: Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Other land rights
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters,
23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Pastoralist/nomadism rights: No specific mention.
Cultural heritage: Land, property and environment→Cultural heritage→Tangible
Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters,
22. It is agreed to open "Chin cultural and traditional music schools" in appropriate places in Chin State with the view of exchanging, preserving and promoting the Chin culture and traditions cherished by the Chin people.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters,
23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief; including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions; the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.
Land, property and environment→Cultural heritage→Intangible
Page 2, Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue,
02): It is agreed that the Government of Chin State shall take forward actions to re-recognize the 20th of February as Chin National Day as a public holiday in Chin State in recognition of the occasion as a day cherished by the Chin people.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue,
03): It is agreed that the Government of Chin State shall take forward actions to designate the 3rd of January as Chin State Day in recognition of the day the Chin Special Division was turned into Chin State.

Page 5, Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters,
21. It is agreed that the Union Government will take forward matters regarding the implementation of the teaching and learning of Chin language at the primary education level in schools in Chin State.
Environment: Page 3, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 06): Environmental impacts assessments shall be conducted in regards to all development projects in Chin State. To facilitate such a process, it is agreed that an independent committee shall be formed made up of independent experts. It is agreed that in extracting natural resources from above and underground within Chin State, the principles of Free Prior and Informed Consent shall be observed in accordance with the desire of the Chin people.
Water or riparian rights or access: No specific mention.

Security sector

Security Guarantees: No specific mention.
Ceasefire: Security sector→Ceasefire→Ceasefire provision
Page 1, Untitled Preamble: The 9-point ceasefire agreement between the Chin National Front Peace Negotiating Team and the Chin State Government on 6 January 2012 in Hakha, Chin State and the 15-point Union level ceasefire agreement signed by the Chin National Front and the Chin State Government on 7 May 2012 in Chin State, witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility committee, respectively are hereby reaffirmed.
Security sector→Ceasefire→General commitments
Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment:
04): It is agreed that no reprisals be made against anyone for being involved in any and all activities related to engagement between the Chin National Front and the public during the period of the cease-fire agreement, invoking either the political party registration act or the Unlawful Association Act effective the date of signing the agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union Government on 6 January 2012. This provision, however, shall not apply to infringement of other legal provisions and violations of the Criminal Code.
Police: No specific mention.
Armed forces: Page 3, Military Agreements, 07: With the view of building sustainable peace in the Union of Burma, it is agreed to further discuss matters regarding military code of conducts involving the Burma Army and other ethnic armed groups at a Union-level political dialogue that involves all ethnic nationalities in Burma.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 8. ...(c) It is agreed to have the presence of only the Burma Army and the Chin National Army within the Chin State.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 09. It is agreed that in the event that members of the Chin National Army would like to patrol or make troop rotation or to travel outside of their designated territories while bearing arms, shall do so only by pre-informing and obtaining mutual agreement with the nearest Burma Army outpost or Battalion, or the local Tactical Commander.
DDR: No specific mention.
Intelligence services: No specific mention.
Parastatal/rebel and opposition group forces: Page 3, Military Agreements, 07: With the view of building sustainable peace in the Union of Burma, it is agreed to further discuss matters regarding military code of conducts involving the Burma Army and other ethnic armed groups at a Union-level political dialogue that involves all ethnic nationalities in Burma.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 8. (a) It is agreed that the Union Peace Working Committee shall within one month [of this agreement] inform in writing regarding the possibility of allowing members of the Chin National Front and Chin National Army establishing their base at Thantlang Township's Vanzang, Lungding, Belhar, Lulpilung Village Tracts, as well as Tedim Township's Dampi Village Tract.
...(c) It is agreed to have the presence of only the Burma Army and the Chin National Army within the Chin State.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 11: It is agreed that the Chin people living within the areas designated for both the Chin National Front and the Chin National Army shall enjoy the benefit of receiving direct aid from Non Governmental Organizations and the international community for their development, with the permission of the Union Government.

~

Page 3, Military Agreements, 8. (a) It is agreed that the Union Peace Working Committee shall within one month [of this agreement] inform in writing regarding the possibility of allowing members of the Chin National Front and Chin National Army establishing their base at Thantlang Township's Vanzang, Lungding, Belhar, Lulpilung Village Tracts, as well as Tedim Township's Dampi Village Tract.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 8. (a) It is agreed that the Union Peace Working Committee shall within one month [of this agreement] inform in writing regarding the possibility of allowing members of the Chin National Front and Chin National Army establishing their base at Thantlang Township's Vanzang, Lungding, Belhar, Lulpilung Village Tracts, as well as Tedim Township's Dampi Village Tract.
...(c) It is agreed to have the presence of only the Burma Army and the Chin National Army within the Chin State.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 09. It is agreed that in the event that members of the Chin National Army would like to patrol or make troop rotation or to travel outside of their designated territories while bearing arms, shall do so only by pre-informing and obtaining mutual agreement with the nearest Burma Army outpost or Battalion, or the local Tactical Commander.
10. If the Chin National Front would like to conduct military exercise within the parameters of territories legally designated for them, they can only do so by obtaining prior agreement with the government.

Page 3, Military Agreements, 11. It is agreed that the Chin people living within the areas designated for both the Chin National Front and the Chin National Army shall enjoy the benefit of receiving direct aid from Non Governmental Organizations and the international community for their development, with the permission of the Union Government.
Withdrawal of foreign forces: No specific mention.
Corruption: No specific mention.
Crime/organised crime: No specific mention.
Drugs: No specific mention.
Terrorism: No specific mention.

Transitional justice

Transitional justice general: No specific mention.
Amnesty/pardon: Transitional justice→Amnesty/pardon→Relief of other sanctions
Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 04): It is agreed that no reprisals be made against anyone for being involved in any and all activities related to engagement between the Chin National Front and the public during the period of the cease-fire agreement, invoking either the political party registration act or the Unlawful Association Act effective the date of signing the agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union Government on 6 January 2012. This provision, however, shall not apply to infringement of other legal provisions and violations of the Criminal Code.
Courts: No specific mention.
Mechanism: No specific mention.
Prisoner release: No specific mention.
Vetting: No specific mention.
Victims: No specific mention.
Missing persons: No specific mention.
Reparations: No specific mention.
Reconciliation: Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 04): It is agreed that no reprisals be made against anyone for being involved in any and all activities related to engagement between the Chin National Front and the public during the period of the cease-fire agreement, invoking either the political party registration act or the Unlawful Association Act effective the date of signing the agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union Government on 6 January 2012. This provision, however, shall not apply to infringement of other legal provisions and violations of the Criminal Code.

Page 2, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 05): Upon consultation between the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front, it is agreed to form an independent Chin human rights committee. Such a committee will report to the National Human Rights Commission, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front. The reporting shall have its basis on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights and humanitarian laws.

Page 3, Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment, 06:) Environmental impacts assessments shall be conducted in regards to all development projects in Chin State. To facilitate such a process, it is agreed that an independent committee shall be formed made up of independent experts. It is agreed that in extracting natural resources from above and underground within Chin State, the principles of Free Prior and Informed Consent shall be observed in accordance with the desire of the Chin people.

Implementation

UN signatory: No specific mention.
Other international signatory: No specific mention.
Referendum for agreement: No specific mention.
International mission/force/similar: No specific mention.
Enforcement mechanism: No specific mention.
Related cases: No specific mention.
Source: Chinland Guardian (unofficial translation): http://www.chinlandguardian.com

Link to agreement: http://www.chinlandguardian.com/index.php/news/item/1463-unofficial-translation-of-cnf-govt-agreements-at-union-level-peace-talks

CNF-Govt Agreements at Union-Level Peace Talks

10 December 2012:

The Chinland Guardian is pleased to present an unofficial translation of the original document containing agreements between the Chin National Front (CNF) and Peace Committee of Burma's government during their three-day Union-level peace talks held in Rangoon on 7-9 December 2012.

Agreement between the Chin National Front and Union-level Peace Working Committee at the 2nd round of Peace Talks

In order to end more than sixty years of armed conflict and to establish a lasting peace in the Union of Burma, the Chin National Front and the Union Peace Working Committee have agreed to cooperate together in working towards the following three-point peace process:

Ending all armed and other hostilities

Holding a Union-level political dialogue

Working towards an agreement for 'Union Accord' between the Union

government and all ethnic nationalities through a national conference based on the Spirit of Panglong

The 9-point ceasefire agreement between the Chin National Front Peace Negotiating Team and the Chin State Government on 6 January 2012 in Hakha, Chin State and the 15-point Union level ceasefire agreement signed by the Chin National Front and the Chin State Government on 7 May 2012 in Chin State, witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility committee, respectively are hereby reaffirmed.

As contained in paragraph 4 of the May 7 2012 agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union-level

Peace Negotiating Team, the three main national causes of Non-disintegration of Union, Non-

disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty, and principles guaranteeing democracy, ethnic equality and self-determination are reaffirmed as the basis for the second and third steps in the peace process towards building a genuine Union.

To establish a lasting peace in the Union based on the universal principles of freedom, equality, and justice, the Chin National Front and the Union Peace Working Committee signed this agreement on 9 December 2012 having been witnessed by the Chin Peace and Tranquility Committee, Union-level Peace Facilitating Committee and observers.

Agreement Concerning Chin National Issue

01) The Union of Burma is a Union founded in accordance with the Panglong Agreement of February 12 1947 by the territories formerly governed under the 1896 Chin Hills Regulation, Kachin Hill Tribes Regulation, the Federated Shan States and the Government of Burma Act of 1935.

Burma being founded by multi-ethnic groups, the parties agreed to negotiate towards re- establishing a genuine Union guaranteeing equality and self-determination consistent with the original intent at the Panglong Conference between General Aung San and the ethnic nationalities.

02) It is agreed that the Government of Chin State shall take forward actions to re-recognize the 20th of February as Chin National Day as a public holiday in Chin State in recognition of the occasion as a day cherished by the Chin people.

03) It is agreed that the Government of Chin State shall take forward actions to designate the 3rd of January as Chin State Day in recognition of the day the Chin Special Division was turned into Chin State.

Agreement Concerning National Reconciliation, Human Rights and the Environment

04) It is agreed that no reprisals be made against anyone for being involved in any and all activities related to engagement between the Chin National Front and the public during the period of the cease-fire agreement, invoking either the political party registration act or the Unlawful Association Act effective the date of signing the agreement between the Chin National Front and the Union Government on 6 January 2012.

This provision, however, shall not apply to infringement of other legal provisions and violations of the Criminal Code.

05) Upon consultation between the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front, it is agreed to form an independent Chin human rights committee.

Such a committee will report to the National Human Rights Commission, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front.

The

reporting shall have its basis on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and other international human rights and humanitarian laws.

06) Environmental impacts assessments shall be conducted in regards to all development projects in Chin State.

To facilitate such a process, it is agreed that an independent committee shall be formed made up of independent experts.

It is agreed that in extracting natural resources from above and underground within Chin State, the principles of Free Prior and Informed Consent shall be observed in accordance with the desire of the Chin people.

Military Agreements

07. With the view of building sustainable peace in the Union of Burma, it is agreed to further discuss matters regarding military code of conducts involving the Burma Army and other ethnic armed groups at a Union-level political dialogue that involves all ethnic nationalities in Burma.

8. ( a) It is agreed that the Union Peace Working Committee shall within one month [of this agreement] inform in writing regarding the possibility of allowing members of the Chin National Front and Chin National Army establishing their base at Thantlang Township's Vanzang, Lungding, Belhar, Lulpilung Village Tracts, as well as Tedim Township's Dampi Village Tract.

(b) It is agreed to take forward the matters regarding the remaining Village Tracts that have been submitted during the second Union-level talks for consideration during the third Union-level talks. (

c) It is agreed to have the presence of only the Burma Army and the Chin National Army within the Chin State.

09. It is agreed that in the event that members of the Chin National Army would like to patrol or make troop rotation or to travel outside of their designated territories while bearing arms, shall do so only by pre-informing and obtaining mutual agreement with the nearest Burma Army outpost or Battalion, or the local Tactical Commander.

10. If the Chin National Front would like to conduct military exercise within the parameters of territories legally designated for them, they can only do so by obtaining prior agreement with the government.

11. It is agreed that the Chin people living within the areas designated for both the Chin National Front and the Chin National Army shall enjoy the benefit of receiving direct aid from Non Governmental Organizations and the international community for their development, with the permission of the Union Government.

Agreements Concerning Development

12. Both the Union Government and the Government of Chin State shall make every effort to assist the Chin National Front in its endeavors towards the development of Chin State.

To this end, it is agreed that the Chin National Front has the power to establish a committee or organization to carry out development works in cooperation with domestic and International Non- Governmental Organizations.

13. In order for the committee or organization referred to in point 12 to carry out its tasks, it is agreed that such a body shall have the following functions:

(a) The Chin State Government and Chin National Front shall have the power, through consultation, to determine the terms of reference for the implementation of a system in which locals determine their own development priorities

(b) The findings of hired competent international experts shall be presented to the Chin National Front, the Union Government and the Chin State Government before June 2003. (

Translator's Note:

Not unclear because of the original Burmese texts at the beginning of the sentence)

(c) The Union Government shall facilitate visas to enable such international experts to freely travel in and out of the country.

14. It is agreed that the Chin National Front, the Union Government and the Chin State Government shall cooperate for the establishment of a Community Radio broadcast program for each Chin dialectal group with the view of facilitating better interactions amongst the Chins, as well as, promoting Chin media.

15. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together to promote information technology and computer skills in Chin State.

16. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together to establish a Special Economic Zone within Chin State.

17. In order to facilitate easier communication access within Chin State the Union Government shall construct at least one airport in an appropriate location after conducting a field assessment.

18. It is agreed to further develop a national highway that connects all the towns in Chin State:

spanning from Tonzang Township in the north to Paletwa Township in the south.

19. The Chin National Front, the Union and State Governments shall cooperatively work together in ensuring that the Chin public receive basic services such as water and electricity;

food security, health and education.

20. With the view of promoting tourism in the region, the Union Government shall make it possible for international tourists to freely travel in and out of Chin State.

Agreements on Social and Cultural Matters

21. It is agreed that the Union Government will take forward matters regarding the implementation of the teaching and learning of Chin language at the primary education level in schools in Chin State.

22. It is agreed to open "Chin cultural and traditional music schools" in appropriate places in Chin State with the view of exchanging, preserving and promoting the Chin culture and traditions cherished by the Chin people.

23. With the view of ensuring religious freedom within Burma, the Union Government, the Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall work together towards the full achievement of freedom of religion or belief;

including freedom of writing and printing religious texts, the right to own land for religious purposes for both Christians and other religions;

the right to freely construct churches and other religious buildings, the right to freely work and communicate with international organizations, the right to freely proselytize and of freedom of movement and to freely engage in humanitarian works.

24. It is agreed that in the appointment or promotion in civil service position there shall be no discrimination on the basis ethnicity, religion or gender.

25. The parties agreed to issue licenses for registration and production of newspapers, journals, magazines, newsletters, radio, internet and television programs and other works relating to community-based organizations in accordance with the law.

26. The Chin National Front shall have the right to freely seek funding for the implementation of development works within Chin State.

27. With the view of facilitating ease of travels and promoting the social and educational development of the Chin people residing outside of Chin State, the Union Government, Chin State Government and the Chin National Front shall cooperate together in gradually building 'Chin State Guest Houses' in Naypyidaw, Yangon, Mandalay, Pakhuku, Kalay, Sittwe and Seih T own.

28. The following signatories duly entered their signatures having duly agreed on the above points.

[Note:

Names, titles and signatures of members of both parties as well as observers below are intentionally omitted in the translation]