No right to blasphemy in Burma. A Swiss by the name of Didier Nusbaumer, 52, was arrested on August 8 after broadcasting a film on YouTube and TikTok in July which “may offend the morality and dignity of Buddhist monks”, the Burmese junta announced in a press release. this Friday.
In a 75-minute film, “a young woman used vulgar and insulting words against the culture and tradition of Buddhists by undermining the good virtues of monks”, continue the authorities. Thirteen other people associated with this film and who “acted carelessly (…) to undermine the morality and dignity” of the monks were also arrested. “Actions will be taken against those arrested,” assured the junta, without specifying whether Didier Nusbaumer had been placed in detention.
Switzerland “is in contact with the competent authorities”
Swiss diplomats stationed in Burma are in contact with the local authorities after the arrest of their Swiss national. “The FDFA [le Département fédéral des Affaires étrangères] is aware of this case. Verifications are in progress. The local Swiss representation is in contact with the competent authorities,” a spokeswoman told AFP in an email on Saturday. The FDFA gave no further information.
Buddhism plays a key role in Burma, a predominantly Buddhist country where monks and prayers are an integral part of daily life. In 2016, a court sentenced a Dutch tourist to three months of hard labor for offending religion by unplugging a loudspeaker playing a late-night Buddhist sermon.