ADVISORY COMMISSION ON RAKHINE STATE
the citizenship verification process. This strategy should be transparent,
efficient, and with a solid basis in existing legislation. The strategy
should be discussed with members of the Rakhine and Muslim
communities, and communicated through a broad outreach
campaign. The strategy should include a clear timeline for the
different stages of the process. The process should also be made
simpler, and enable individuals to apply for citizenship at the same
time as they apply for NVC. To increase the accessibility of the
process, the use of an uncle or aunt’s documents (or other family
members) should be permitted when the parent’s documents are
missing. The Government should ensure that the verification process
is adequately resourced.
13. The Government should clarify the status of those whose citizenship
application is not accepted.
14. Like all countries, Myanmar will need a status for those who reside
in Myanmar without being citizens. The rights of non-citizens who
live and work in Myanmar need to be regulated. The Government
should clarify residency rights and provide associated documentation,
which is a common practice around the world.
15. While urging Rakhine and Muslim communities to work constructively
with the Government to revitalize the citizenship verification
process, the Commission also urges the Government to ensure that
the process is voluntary. The Government should create proper
incentives to encourage people to participate.
16. Complaints related to the on-going verification processes should
be addressed swiftly by a Government authority independent of
the institutions responsible for the implementation of the verification
processes.
28 Towards a Peaceful, Fair and Prosperous Future for the People of Rakhine