The U.S. State Department says Burma's already poor human rights record has worsened over the past year.

A new report on U.S. actions to improve human rights says Rangoon has effectively barred participation in the opposition National League for Democracy, and is continuing the house arrest of party leaders.

U.S. officials also say Burmese security forces continue to carry out extrajudicial killings, rape, forcible relocation, and conscription of child soldiers.

The report says the United States is working to improve conditions in Burma by supporting opposition and ethnic minority groups, and through ongoing stringent sanctions on the country.

It also outlines U.S. efforts to encourage the rule of law and democracy in the country through information exchange programs aimed at promoting human rights and democratic values.