The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called on Burma to release pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners.
In a written statement Monday, Louise Arbour said the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners would demonstrate Burma's willingness to abide by universally accepted human rights standards.
Aung San Suu Kyi has spent most of the past 17 years under house arrest. The Nobel Laureate's latest term of house arrest is up for review on May 27th, but there is concern Burmese authorities may extend it.
Arbour said her office is ready to assist Burma's military government in any efforts to move towards democracy.
Over the past several weeks, many including ASEAN lawmakers and U.S. leaders have called for Aung San Suu Kyi's release. At least 40 people have been arrested after marching to temples to pray for her freedom.
Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in 1990 elections. But Burma's government has refused to recognize the results and has prevented the NLD from taking office.
Information for this story is provided by Reuters and UN release.