Latest
Press Release
31 January 2025
Myanmar: Four years on, coup leaders ramp up violations to unprecedented levels, UN finds
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Press Release
30 January 2025
Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Myanmar
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Press Release
29 January 2025
Myanmar On The Brink As Conflict Fuels Hunder
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Myanmar
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Myanmar:
Speech
29 January 2025
Secretary-General's Message for the Lunar New Year 2025
Happy Lunar New Year.I am pleased to send my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Lunar New Year – and this Year of the Snake.The snake symbolizes wisdom, resilience, and renewal. In these trying times, let us be guided by these qualities and renew our commitment to peace, equality, and justice. Let us embrace this time of new beginnings with hope and determination to create a better future for all.May the Year of the Snake bring good health, happiness, prosperity, and new beginnings.Thank you., filtered_html
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Press Release
10 January 2025
Statement by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. for Myanmar
The humanitarian community is deeply alarmed by the recent reports of civilian casualties in Rakhine State. On 8 January 2025 an aerial attack in Kyauk Ni Maw Village in Ramree Township reportedly killed over 40 civilians, including children and women, and injured more than 20 people. It is reported that around 500 homes were allegedly destroyed, with children, women, and elderly people among the casualties. Fighting in Rakhine has recently escalated, with civilians paying the highest price of the conflict. Civilians face extreme risks, acute food insecurity and a near total collapse of critical public services. The humanitarian community reiterates our call on all parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian property, humanitarian workers and supplies, and to guarantee unimpeded humanitarian access to deliver aid to the most vulnerable., filtered_html
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Speech
27 January 2025
Secretary-General's Message for International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust
This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the Holocaust’s end. We mourn the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators, as they sought to destroy an entire people. We grieve the Roma and Sinti, the people with disabilities, and all others enslaved, persecuted, tortured, and killed. We stand alongside victims, survivors and their families. And we renew our resolve never to forget. To allow the Holocaust to fade from memory would dishonour the past and betray the future. Remembrance is a moral act. And a call to action. To know the history of the Holocaust is to know the depths to which humanity can sink… To understand how the Nazis were able to commit their heinous crimes, with the complicity of others… And to comprehend that each of us has a solemn duty – to speak-up against hate, and to stand-up for the human rights of all. Following the hell of the Holocaust, countries came together. And they enshrined the dignity of every person in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In dark times, that document remains a shining light. Eighty years since the Holocaust’s end, antisemitism is still with us – fuelled by the same lies and loathing that made the Nazi genocide possible. And it is rising. Discrimination is rife... Hate is being whipped-up the world over…Indisputable historical facts are being distorted, diminished, and denied…And efforts are being made to recast and rehabilitate Nazis and their collaborators. We must stand up to these outrages.In these days of division – and more than a year since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas – we must hold fast to our common humanity. We must condemn antisemitism – just as we must condemn all forms of racism, prejudice and religious bigotry. And we must renew our resolve to defend the dignity and human rights of all. Those causes go to the very core of the United Nations. We will never forget – and we will never waver in that fight., filtered_html
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Publication
03 January 2025
Myanmar Humanitarian Update No. 43
HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES2024 has left people in Myanmar grappling with deepening humanitarian crisis, marked by escalating needs amid unabated conflict, recurrent monsoon flooding, and record-high displacement, and a response that is under-resourced.Conflict between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and various ethnic and resistance groups has persisted in Rakhine, the Northeast, Northwest and Southeast. As a result, the total number of internally displaced persons (IDP) to over 3.5 million at the end of 2024.Civilians face extreme protection risks, acute food insecurity, the near collapse of critical public services, and economic shocks driving up inflation and resulting in loss of livelihoods.Humanitarian partners provided assistance to nearly 3 million people in the first three quarters of 2024, with an estimated 3.9 million people expected to be reached by the year’s end, despite access constraints, with an operation that remains critically under resourced.Humanitarian actors in Myanmar continue to face a range of challenges when trying to provide humanitarian assistance to vulnerable people served through the clusters, primarily pertaining to access, logistics, resources, and security. Efforts continue to gain improved access to people in need.As of 31 December, the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) was funded only 36 per cent, which drastically affected the capacity of humanitarian partners to deliver assistance to people who were prioritized for urgent assistance.People’s humanitarian needs are increasing to unprecedented levels in Myanmar, with an estimated 19.9 million people in need of assistance in 2025. The 2025 HNRP has been launched prioritizing to reach 5.5 million people with life-saving assistance in 2025, for which US$1.1 billion is required., filtered_html
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Publication
17 September 2024
A/HRC/57/56: Situation of human rights in Myanmar - Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights - Advance unedited version
SummaryPrepared pursuant to Human Rights Council resolution 52/31, this report presents findings based on OHCHR monitoring and verification of the overall situation of human rights in Myanmar regarding alleged violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as the rule of law, since 1 April 2023. It concludes by examining the impact of the crisis on the mental health of the population and good practices in provision of mental health services by civil society and community-based organizations. The report concludes with recommendations to the military, armed groups and international community, including to ensure accountability., filtered_html
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Story
05 December 2024
A Second Chance
In a small clinic in Myitkyina, Kachin State, in northern Myanmar, 41-year-old Daw Lai sits quietly, her hands resting protectively on her growing belly. It’s been a stressful few months since she first heard the words that changed her life: “You’ve tested positive.”“I never thought something like this could happen to me,” Daw Lai says, recalling the day she tested positive for HIV during an antenatal care screening. Her husband's history of drug use had raised concerns, but she never imagined it would affect her in this way.“At first, I couldn’t sleep. I cried so much. I was embarrassed and scared,” she says. “My biggest fear was my children—what if they’re also infected? And what about the baby I’m carrying?”Finding support and strength She was later referred to a public health clinic in Myitkyina, where a team of dedicated healthcare workers provided more than just medical care - she received hope. “The health workers explained everything clearly and reassured me that if I followed the treatment plan, my baby could be born healthy,” she says.The clinic provided counselling on protecting her unborn child through the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programme and arranged further tests, including screenings for Hepatitis B and C, which came back negative. Daw Lai started antiretroviral therapy (ART) alongside her husband in early November, a month after her diagnosis. “At first, I felt tired for a few days, but now I feel normal,” she says. ART is provided free of charge by the public health facilities in Myitkyina, not only for her but also for her children, should they ever need it.The Journey to AcceptanceDaw Lai's journey wasn't easy. "I kept asking if the baby would be okay." "They reassured me that as long as I take my medicine at the same time every day, my baby won't be infected. But I still pray every time I take my pill." Fears for their unborn children are common among expectant mothers with HIV, Ma Seng explains. “Many mothers don’t fully trust that ART can prevent mother-to-child transmission. They ask a lot of questions and need reassurance. That’s why we focus on counselling and education.”UNICEF’s support for children and mothersReaching more women like Daw Lai is critical. With support from UNICEF, local volunteers from community-based organisations in Myitkyina visit camps for displaced people and local communities to hold awareness sessions about HIV/AIDS and PMTCT. “Many of them say they wish there were more such discussions,” Ma Seng says.Following the awareness sessions, pregnant mothers are encouraged to visit antenatal clinics for infection screening as part of their routine antenatal tests. “It’s beyond raising awareness,” says Ma Seng. “We make sure they know where to go for care and how to take the next steps for their health and the baby’s health.”UNICEF also provides support for transportation costs for appointments and referrals, ensuring that mothers like Daw Lai can access care without the burden of travel expenses.A new chapter of hopeDespite her initial fears, Daw Lai is determined to follow her treatment plan and ensure her baby remains healthy. “I take my medicine every day at 7 p.m., without fail,” she says. Her commitment and the clinic’s support have given her a new sense of hope and purpose. Her husband has stopped abusing drugs and takes his treatment every day. As she prepares to welcome her third child, Daw Lai remains hopeful, highlighting the life-saving impact of UNICEF-supported programmes like PMTCT through local health facilities. “This clinic gave me hope when I felt hopeless. They told me I’m not alone, and that’s what I needed to hear.”Daw Lai's journey from despair to hope illustrates the critical importance of accessible HIV care and support. Her story is not just one of personal triumph, but a beacon of hope for other mothers facing similar challenges in underserved and conflict-affected communities in Myanmar. , filtered_html
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Story
15 November 2024
The Rise of AI-Powered Organized Crime: Southeast Asia's Growing Threat
Yangon (Myanmar)–As we mark the first International Day for the Prevention of and Fight against All Forms of Transnational Organized Crime (TOC), in Southeast Asia, a rapidly evolving threat has been challenging the region’s stability and security. With the rise of transnational criminal networks utilizing advanced technologies organized crime has entered into a far more dangerous new phase. Criminal groups are no longer bound by traditional methods; they are empowered by technological innovation, expanding their reach and sophistication in ways that were unimaginable previously.Among the most concerning is the unintended consequences caused by the generative artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology and abusing it to automate and scale transnational crimes, including illegal casinos, cyberfraud, and human trafficking for forced criminality. By abusing AI, criminals can create fake identities, documents, and scam content, while deepfakes are used to impersonate trusted figures and deceive victims. This shift has increased the efficiency and global reach of criminal operations, exacerbating human trafficking, exploitation, and online fraud on an unprecedented scale.The impact of these criminal activities is staggering. UNODC’s recent report, titled Transnational Organized Crime and the Convergence of Cyber-Enabled Fraud, Underground Banking, and Technological Innovation: A Shifting Threat Landscape suggests that, in 2023, scams targeting victims in East and Southeast Asia were responsible for financial losses between $18 billion and $37 billion, a testament to the scale and sophistication of modern transnational crime. Criminals are seamlessly integrating billions of dollars from illicit proceeds into the global financial system with the rise of digital solutions through money laundering and underground banking. This growing threat is not just a financial burden; it is a direct challenge to regional security and a global issue that requires international cooperation and coordinated action. In the midst of this, Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries recently have become the center for the global cyber scam industry. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights estimates that more than two hundred thousand people have been trafficked into Myanmar and Cambodia to execute these online scams. The stakes have never been higher. The integration of AI into the already evolving criminal ecosystem represents a paradigm shift that requires an urgent response. Reflecting on the urgency of the matter, The UNODC Executive Director, Ms. Ghada Waly, in her message on the International Day on TOC calls for global solidarity and global action. She remarked, “The challenges of organized crime are growing but so too are the opportunities for cooperation against these threats. By pulling together - governments in the global North and South, banks and businesses, civil society and communities, young and old - we can push back against organized crime, everywhere, for safety and security, for development and human rights, for prosperity and peace."This year's International Day on TOC calls for raising awareness about the global impacts of organized crime, fostering global collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector, and empowering communities to build resilience through grassroots efforts. As AI continues to evolve, it is extremely crucial now more than ever to emphasize knowledge sharing and capacity building to strengthen responses, advocates for policies, and address the root causes of organized crime. At the same time, it is important to recognize the dual role of technology as a challenge and as a tool for innovative solutions in tackling transnational organized crime. Only through collaboration, forward-thinking strategies, and a united approach can we build a safer, more resilient world.Please contact unodc-myanmarfieldoffice@un.org for more information.To read more about the AI’s impact on the organized crime in Southeast Asia, please click here.To learn more about UNODC activities, please click here., filtered_html
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Story
08 November 2024
Myanmar flood recovery: Supporting the resilience of women and girls
Almost two months since Myanmar was impacted by severe flooding, more than 1 million people have been affected, including approximately 600,000 women and girls who face unique and heightened challenges, from health risks to protection needs. The Myanmar Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group (GiHA WG) has issued its second Gender-Impact Flood Update to provide insight into how the humanitarian community in Myanmar is addressing the specific needs of women and girls impacted by the floods.Read the full Gender-Impact Flood Update No. 2Restoring dignity through essential hygiene supportAccess to clean water and sanitary facilities has become a critical concern. After food, hygiene items are the second-highest need in flood-affected areas.[1] Dignity kits—containing sanitary products, soap, and other hygiene essentials—are being distributed by UN Women, UNFPA and their partners. These kits promote physical and psychological well-being, empowering women and girls to feel more confident and secure. Distributing the kits provides community volunteers and other humanitarian actors an entry point to engage with women and girls and share information about how to access available services.Delivering essential maternal and reproductive careThe crisis has severely impacted Myanmar's healthcare infrastructure, with damaged roads and facilities preventing people from accessing health services. Women of reproductive age and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable because they need specialised services that are not easily accessible amid the crisis. In response, mobile clinics operated by UNFPA and local partners are reaching these women, providing maternal health care and family planning services.These mobile clinics offer more than just physical care—they deliver a sense of relief to women like Moe Moe from Kayin State, who is eight months pregnant and shared, “I finally feel like I can breathe again, knowing I have the support and care I need for me and my baby.” In addition to the mobile clinics, clean delivery kits are being distributed to help pregnant women without access to health facilities deliver safely, even in challenging conditions.
Livelihood support and economic empowermentFor women, who face increased care responsibilities amid the crisis, and additional barriers to mobility and employment opportunities, the economic impacts of the floods are severe. The floods have destroyed farmland, livestock and agricultural equipment – decimating sources of income for women in agriculture and small-scale businesses. The floods have also scattered existing landmines, including shifting them into farmlands and other locations, putting farmers at risk. Local women-led organizations are emphasizing the need for targeted livelihood support, "Most women are calling for their urgent need for livelihood assistance to be recognized and addressed directly," said one GiHA member. Support for income generation is critical not only for immediate recovery but also for ensuring women’s long-term resilience.Safeguarding educationFor young girls, the flood’s impact on education poses additional risks. Damaged schools and financial pressures on families make it more likely that girls will drop out of school, increasing the risk of early marriage or child labour. Local organisations also report school-aged girls in flood-affected areas are taking on household and care work, such as looking after younger siblings, cooking and cleaning. This decreases the time they have available to attend school. To help combat this, Essential Learning Packs have been distributed to nearly 10,000 students, including 5,000 girls. Training local teachers, 75% of whom are women, is another critical component of the education response. Capacity-building efforts equip teachers to address the specific needs of girls and boys affected by the floods, helping to provide a stable environment for students during this difficult time.[2] Protection against gender-based violenceThe impact of displacement and crowded shelters has heightened the risk of GBV, with 67% of camps reporting safety concerns for women and girls.[3] In response, humanitarian organizations are working to establish safe spaces for women and girls, and raise awareness of available hotlines/helplines and referral services, enabling survivors of violence to access the help they need. However, limited access to remote areas remains a challenge, underscoring the importance of ongoing advocacy for unrestricted, unimpeded access to affected regions.Women are critical to the responseLocal women volunteers are playing a critical role in the response efforts, from distributing dignity kits to providing information on health services. These women bridge the gap between humanitarian aid providers and affected communities, especially in remote areas where access remains restricted. Their efforts demonstrate the resilience and leadership of women on the front lines, ensuring that their communities are supported and that critical resources reach those in need.Urgent call for increased funding and accessAs the flood response continues, funding remains a significant constraint. With only 28.5% of the 2024 Humanitarian Needs Plan funded, there is an urgent need for additional resources. The Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) has allocated $4 million, and donors have contributed an additional $3 million, but more support is required to sustain the response.Unrestricted access to all affected areas is essential for delivering aid to the most vulnerable. [1]Finding from UNOCHA analysis of 230 assessments completed across flood-affected areas, October 2024.[2]Myanmar Education Cluster, October 2024.[3] Findings from UNOCHA analysis of assessments completed across flood-affected areas, October 2024.*This story was originally published on the UN Women Asia and the Pacific., filtered_html
Livelihood support and economic empowermentFor women, who face increased care responsibilities amid the crisis, and additional barriers to mobility and employment opportunities, the economic impacts of the floods are severe. The floods have destroyed farmland, livestock and agricultural equipment – decimating sources of income for women in agriculture and small-scale businesses. The floods have also scattered existing landmines, including shifting them into farmlands and other locations, putting farmers at risk. Local women-led organizations are emphasizing the need for targeted livelihood support, "Most women are calling for their urgent need for livelihood assistance to be recognized and addressed directly," said one GiHA member. Support for income generation is critical not only for immediate recovery but also for ensuring women’s long-term resilience.Safeguarding educationFor young girls, the flood’s impact on education poses additional risks. Damaged schools and financial pressures on families make it more likely that girls will drop out of school, increasing the risk of early marriage or child labour. Local organisations also report school-aged girls in flood-affected areas are taking on household and care work, such as looking after younger siblings, cooking and cleaning. This decreases the time they have available to attend school. To help combat this, Essential Learning Packs have been distributed to nearly 10,000 students, including 5,000 girls. Training local teachers, 75% of whom are women, is another critical component of the education response. Capacity-building efforts equip teachers to address the specific needs of girls and boys affected by the floods, helping to provide a stable environment for students during this difficult time.[2] Protection against gender-based violenceThe impact of displacement and crowded shelters has heightened the risk of GBV, with 67% of camps reporting safety concerns for women and girls.[3] In response, humanitarian organizations are working to establish safe spaces for women and girls, and raise awareness of available hotlines/helplines and referral services, enabling survivors of violence to access the help they need. However, limited access to remote areas remains a challenge, underscoring the importance of ongoing advocacy for unrestricted, unimpeded access to affected regions.Women are critical to the responseLocal women volunteers are playing a critical role in the response efforts, from distributing dignity kits to providing information on health services. These women bridge the gap between humanitarian aid providers and affected communities, especially in remote areas where access remains restricted. Their efforts demonstrate the resilience and leadership of women on the front lines, ensuring that their communities are supported and that critical resources reach those in need.Urgent call for increased funding and accessAs the flood response continues, funding remains a significant constraint. With only 28.5% of the 2024 Humanitarian Needs Plan funded, there is an urgent need for additional resources. The Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) has allocated $4 million, and donors have contributed an additional $3 million, but more support is required to sustain the response.Unrestricted access to all affected areas is essential for delivering aid to the most vulnerable. [1]Finding from UNOCHA analysis of 230 assessments completed across flood-affected areas, October 2024.[2]Myanmar Education Cluster, October 2024.[3] Findings from UNOCHA analysis of assessments completed across flood-affected areas, October 2024.*This story was originally published on the UN Women Asia and the Pacific., filtered_html
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Story
31 October 2024
The gendered impacts of Myanmar’s devastating floods
Since 9 September 2024, flooding and mudslides triggered by monsoon rains and the remnants of Typhoon Yagi have devastated 70 townships across 11 states and regions in Myanmar. More than 1 million people are estimated to have been affected—60 per cent of which are women and girls—and more than 360 fatalities have so far been reported. Women and girls are being disproportionately impacted by the flooding as it exacerbates existing vulnerabilities and inequalities, including heightening their risk of experiencing gender-based violence (GBV), economic exclusion, and health crises. To better understand the gender-specific needs of the situation and ensure these needs are considered in every part of the flood response, the Myanmar Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group is releasing situation reports on the impacts of the flooding on women and girls. →Read Gender-Impact Flash Update No. 1. The working group is co-chaired by UN Women and UNFPA and brings together civil society, communities, women’s rights organizations, non-governmental organizations, UN agencies, donors, and other stakeholders in Myanmar to ensure humanitarian responses address the gender-specific needs of everyone affected. The following summary captures the key gender-specific impacts and needs identified by working group members through their field staff, volunteers, networks, and the communities they work in. For more in-depth analysis, please read the full Gender-Impact Flash Update. The rising risk of gender-based violenceOne of the most urgent concerns is the increased risk of gender-based violence. Women and girls are particularly vulnerable to early marriage, unsafe migration, and trafficking as they flee to shelters or as families resort to dangerous coping mechanisms. Without safe spaces, including gender-segregated latrines and bathing facilities, women and girls are vulnerable to exploitation and violence in overcrowded and poorly equipped temporary shelters. The lack of privacy threatens their physical safety and denies women and girls – including those who are pregnant, lactating or menstruating – their dignity in the face of an already traumatic situation.The social and economic upheaval caused by the disaster has also led to increased tensions within households, which organizations on the ground say is fuelling a spike in intimate partner violence.Economic exclusion of womenWith the destruction of farmlands and livestock, women working in small-scale farming and informal economies have lost their primary income sources. The floods have also amplified pre-existing gender inequalities. In the wake of the disaster, many women are taking on additional responsibilities for caring for children, the elderly, and other dependents, further limiting their ability to engage in income-generating activities or recovery efforts. This cycle of economic exclusion and increased care responsibilities leaves women even more vulnerable to poverty and exploitation. Lack of healthcare meeting women’s and girls’ needsMany health facilities have been damaged or are unreachable due to fuel shortages and damage to roads. Where health care is accessible, it often does not include the specific services many women and girls need, including access to contraceptives, antenatal care, and safe childbirth services. Compounding these challenges, many women are unaware of where to access healthcare due to the destruction of communication networks.Lack of safe food and waterAs inflation rises and food prices soar, food insecurity has become another critical issue. Nutritious food, particularly that containing the nutrients pregnant and lactating women need, is scarce, and many families are struggling to meet their basic needs.Contaminated water sources have led to outbreaks of diarrhoea and food poisoning, placing additional strain on already weakened health systems. For women and girls, the shortage of menstrual hygiene products and the absence of private sanitation facilities have further compromised their health and dignity. Urgent action needed As Myanmar faces one of its most devastating flooding crises, it is crucial that the response addresses the specific needs of women and girls. Local humanitarian organizations, including women-led and women’s rights organizations, are on the front line of the response, but they are critically underfunded. Without immediate and sustained interventions, the long-term impact on these vulnerable populations will be catastrophic. Almost 11 months into the year, the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is only 28 per cent funded. To sustain the delivery of emergency assistance, additional resources are urgently needed. To find out more about the gender-specific needs of women and girls affected by the current flooding, read the full Gender-Impact Flash Update: Myanmar Flooding, No.1. For the latest updates and resources on the flooding, visit the Monsoon Flooding 2024 resource page on the Myanmar Information Management Unit (MIMU) website. , filtered_html
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Story
15 October 2024
Building Resilience Amidst Natural Disasters: UNDP's Role in Disaster Risk Reduction
As we mark International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR) 2024, UNDP Myanmar reflects on the ongoing need to enhance community resilience and preparedness in the face of increasing climate-induced disasters. The recent impact of Typhoon Yagi in September reminds us of the importance of disaster risk reduction at the community level. In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi caused heavy rains and severe flooding across nine states and regions, including Southern and Eastern Shan, Kayah, Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Magway, Kayin, Bago, and Mon. Thousands of homes were submerged, and livelihoods disrupted, exacerbating the hardships faced by communities already dealing with conflict and socioeconomic challenges. In response to these challenges, UNDP, through its Enabling Community Recovery and Resilience (ENCORE) project, has been working closely with affected communities to support recovery efforts and build long-term resilience. The ENCORE project is a key part of our work to empower communities and foster preparedness for future disasters. Immediate Response: Supporting Communities Post-Disaster
In the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, UNDP is distributing Household Emergency Assistance Packages (HEAP) to thousands of flood-affected households. These packages, including hygiene kits, food, tools, clothing, and basic medical supplies, are being delivered to the vulnerable communities in regions such as Nyaung U Township in Mandalay region, Kamma and Sinbaungwe in Magway region, Hpa An in Kayin State, Bago region and Southern Shan State, including Taunggyi, Kalaw, and Nyaung Shwe townships Fostering Early Preparedness and Risk Awareness
A cornerstone of our efforts in disaster risk reduction is ensuring that communities are educated and equipped to respond before disasters strike. UNDP disseminates weather forecasts and early warning information through the SEAD Agro-Advisory Viber community, enabling real-time updates that help at-risk populations take precautions. Through this platform, we educate communities on understanding weather patterns, improving their disaster preparedness, and strengthening their capacity to act when emergencies arise. Additionally, we are set to launch risk management and awareness training, aimed at helping communities recognize and address disaster risks more proactively. These initiatives are designed to empower local community leaders and residents with the knowledge and tools to take effective measures during crisis situations.Strengthening Community Infrastructure
A key aspect of resilience is ensuring that local infrastructure is built to withstand future disasters. Through the ENCORE project, UNDP is working with communities to reinforce vital infrastructure in flood-prone and vulnerable regions. These efforts include upgrading community facilities and improving infrastructure that can reduce the impact of natural hazards, ensuring that communities are better equipped to recover and thrive after crises. Moving Forward
As we commemorate IDRR 2024, our focus remains on sustainable community resilience. While addressing immediate needs is essential, long-term investments in disaster risk reduction and preparedness are critical to reducing vulnerability. UNDP Myanmar will continue working alongside local communities and partners to build stronger, more resilient societies that can adapt to and overcome future challenges. *This story was originally published on the UNDP Myanmar website. , filtered_html
In the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, UNDP is distributing Household Emergency Assistance Packages (HEAP) to thousands of flood-affected households. These packages, including hygiene kits, food, tools, clothing, and basic medical supplies, are being delivered to the vulnerable communities in regions such as Nyaung U Township in Mandalay region, Kamma and Sinbaungwe in Magway region, Hpa An in Kayin State, Bago region and Southern Shan State, including Taunggyi, Kalaw, and Nyaung Shwe townships Fostering Early Preparedness and Risk Awareness
A cornerstone of our efforts in disaster risk reduction is ensuring that communities are educated and equipped to respond before disasters strike. UNDP disseminates weather forecasts and early warning information through the SEAD Agro-Advisory Viber community, enabling real-time updates that help at-risk populations take precautions. Through this platform, we educate communities on understanding weather patterns, improving their disaster preparedness, and strengthening their capacity to act when emergencies arise. Additionally, we are set to launch risk management and awareness training, aimed at helping communities recognize and address disaster risks more proactively. These initiatives are designed to empower local community leaders and residents with the knowledge and tools to take effective measures during crisis situations.Strengthening Community Infrastructure
A key aspect of resilience is ensuring that local infrastructure is built to withstand future disasters. Through the ENCORE project, UNDP is working with communities to reinforce vital infrastructure in flood-prone and vulnerable regions. These efforts include upgrading community facilities and improving infrastructure that can reduce the impact of natural hazards, ensuring that communities are better equipped to recover and thrive after crises. Moving Forward
As we commemorate IDRR 2024, our focus remains on sustainable community resilience. While addressing immediate needs is essential, long-term investments in disaster risk reduction and preparedness are critical to reducing vulnerability. UNDP Myanmar will continue working alongside local communities and partners to build stronger, more resilient societies that can adapt to and overcome future challenges. *This story was originally published on the UNDP Myanmar website. , filtered_html
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Press Release
31 January 2025
Myanmar: Four years on, coup leaders ramp up violations to unprecedented levels, UN finds
An analysis of the conflict throughout 2024 found that as the military’s grip on power eroded, it launched wave after wave of retaliatory airstrikes and artillery shelling on civilians and civilian populated areas, forced thousands of young people into military service, conducted arbitrary arrests and prosecutions, caused mass displacement, and denied access to humanitarians, even in the face of natural disasters. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), at least 6,231 civilians have been killed by the military, including 1,144 women and 709 children, over the past four years. In 2024, at least 1,824 people were killed, including 531 women and 248 children, sharply up from the previous peak of 1,639 verified deaths in 2023. “After four years, it is deeply distressing to find that the situation on the ground for civilians is only getting worse by the day,” said UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk. “Even as the military’s power wanes, their atrocities and violence have expanded in scope and intensity,” he said, adding that the retaliatory nature of the attacks were designed to control, intimidate, and punish the population. “This military-created human rights crisis has caused untold suffering through indiscriminate attacks against civilians, denial of humanitarian aid, and systematic violations of human rights. “Without an immediate end to this brutality and accountability for the perpetrators, civilian casualties will continue to rise and the overall situation for civilians will inevitably continue to deteriorate.” The analysis details acts of extreme brutality, including beheadings, burnings, mutilations, executions, torture and the use of human shields – all of which were carried out against civilians with absolute impunity. In many townships, soldiers attacked villages in the absence of active fighting, likely in retaliation for anti-military armed group advances in other areas. Deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, schools, places of worship, healthcare facilities, IDP camps and public gatherings led to mass civilian casualties and displacement, and the interruption of essential services such as education and healthcare. Civilians also bore the brunt of communication shutdowns and extensive surveillance, hampering lifesaving and rescue operations. Although not comparable to military violence in scale and scope, violence by anti-military armed groups in 2024 also caused protection concerns for civilians. The UN Human Rights Office received allegations of torture, extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, forced recruitment and other abuses committed by anti-military armed groups in areas under their control.Türk said he was alarmed by the dramatic deterioration of the situation and grave protection risks in Rakhine State for all communities, including the Rohingya population. “The Rohingya find themselves trapped between the warring Arakan Army and the military, with nowhere to turn for protection. They suffered throughout the year as their villages were burnt, and their youth were pressed into military service. Humanitarian assistance was cut off while they were forced repeatedly into displacement, fleeing in an effort to find any means of safety,” the High Commissioner said. He added that tens of thousands had sought refuge in Bangladesh and nearly 8,000 people since 2024 had attempted perilous sea travels to seek safety. “As the Arakan Army have all but consolidated their control of Rakhine State, they must respect international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and protect all individuals within areas of their control,” said Türk.Across Myanmar, nearly 20 million civilians are in need of humanitarian assistance. UN figures show that over 3.5 million people have been displaced, a third of whom are children, although data from civil society organizations suggest that the overall number may be more than double that. A key driver of displacement in the past year was conscription and forced recruitment by the military of thousands of young people, including members of the Rohingya community, creating widespread fear. Tens of thousands of youths have gone into hiding or fled abroad, robbing the workforce of many aged between 18 and 35 and further aggravating the economic crisis. Türk called on States with influence, particularly those in the region, to double down on bringing an end to the violence, to press for full and unhindered humanitarian assistance, to demand the release of all those detained on political grounds, to engage meaningfully with actors promoting democracy and human rights, and to ensure international protection for those fleeing the violence and persecution.The High Commissioner added that ending impunity for the crimes committed also rests on the international community. He stressed that any sustainable political solution must be anchored in justice and accountability, to ensure that the people of Myanmar will never have to face the horrors they have endured for four years., filtered_html
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Press Release
31 January 2025
Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Myanmar
Four years since the military seized power and arbitrarily detained members of the democratically elected Government on 1 February 2021, the situation in Myanmar continues to deteriorate, with devastating consequences for civilians.
The Secretary-General condemns all forms of violence and calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint, uphold human rights and international humanitarian law, and prevent further incitement of violence and intercommunal tensions. He reiterates his concern regarding the military’s stated intention to hold elections amid intensifying conflict, including aerial bombardment and widespread human rights violations and without conditions that permit the people of Myanmar to freely and peacefully exercise their political rights, including safety and security.
Over 19.9 million people in Myanmar – more than one-third of its population - need humanitarian assistance, compared to one million before the military took over four years ago. Unimpeded access must be assured to enable the UN and its partners to continue to deliver humanitarian assistance and essential services.
The Secretary-General renews his calls for greater cooperation among all stakeholders to bring an end to the hostilities and help the people of Myanmar forge a path towards an inclusive democratic transition and return to civilian rule. The Secretary-General also appeals to countries in the region to grant access to safety and protection for those fleeing conflict and persecution and for the international community to provide greater support to countries, including Bangladesh, hosting refugees from Myanmar.
The Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, Julie Bishop, remains actively engaged with all stakeholders, in close cooperation with ASEAN, in the search of a Myanmar-led resolution to the crisis.
A viable future for Myanmar must ensure safety, accountability, and opportunity for all its communities, including the Rohingya, and address the root causes of conflict, discrimination and disenfranchisement in all its forms. The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering support of the United Nations to the people of Myanmar in these efforts., filtered_html
The Secretary-General condemns all forms of violence and calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint, uphold human rights and international humanitarian law, and prevent further incitement of violence and intercommunal tensions. He reiterates his concern regarding the military’s stated intention to hold elections amid intensifying conflict, including aerial bombardment and widespread human rights violations and without conditions that permit the people of Myanmar to freely and peacefully exercise their political rights, including safety and security.
Over 19.9 million people in Myanmar – more than one-third of its population - need humanitarian assistance, compared to one million before the military took over four years ago. Unimpeded access must be assured to enable the UN and its partners to continue to deliver humanitarian assistance and essential services.
The Secretary-General renews his calls for greater cooperation among all stakeholders to bring an end to the hostilities and help the people of Myanmar forge a path towards an inclusive democratic transition and return to civilian rule. The Secretary-General also appeals to countries in the region to grant access to safety and protection for those fleeing conflict and persecution and for the international community to provide greater support to countries, including Bangladesh, hosting refugees from Myanmar.
The Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, Julie Bishop, remains actively engaged with all stakeholders, in close cooperation with ASEAN, in the search of a Myanmar-led resolution to the crisis.
A viable future for Myanmar must ensure safety, accountability, and opportunity for all its communities, including the Rohingya, and address the root causes of conflict, discrimination and disenfranchisement in all its forms. The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering support of the United Nations to the people of Myanmar in these efforts., filtered_html
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Press Release
30 January 2025
Myanmar On The Brink As Conflict Fuels Hunder
YANGON – Hunger has reached alarming levels in Myanmar with the situation set to worsen in 2025, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned today. A staggering 15 million people are expected to face hunger in 2025, up from 13.3 million last year. Those living in active conflict areas, particularly in Chin, Kachin and Rakhine states, as well as Sagaing Region, are experiencing the highest levels of food insecurity in the country. Almost 20 million people - 1 in 3 - will need humanitarian assistance this year, according to the Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan.“Growing conflict across the country, access restrictions, a crumbling economy and successive weather-related crises are driving record levels of hunger,” said Michael Dunford, WFP’s Representative and Country Director. More than 3.5 million people are displaced in Myanmar due to armed conflict and violence, a number projected to increase to 4.5 million in 2025 as conflict takes root and spreads to new areas. Food is the biggest need for displaced people but spiraling costs and rapid inflation have made it unaffordable for many. The cost of basic staples – including rice, beans, oil and salt – has increased by 30 percent in the past year. “Food prices in Myanmar continue to rise each and every month. Even if some food is available in local markets, people simply don't have the resources to buy the basics, which means they are eating less and going hungry," said Dunford. The rapid escalation in humanitarian and food security needs in Myanmar has been overshadowed by international political turmoil and a surge in global crises, which have drawn public attention away from Myanmar.“The world cannot afford to overlook Myanmar’s escalating crisis. Without immediate and increased international support, hundreds of thousands more will be pushed to the brink,” said Dunford. WFP aims to reach at least 1.6 million people in Myanmar with life-saving food, nutrition, and resilience-building support in 2025. WFP is engaging with all parties to the conflict and expanding partnerships with local organizations to ensure its life-saving assistance effectively reaches those who depend on WFP for vital support. # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media, @wfp_asiapacific, filtered_html
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Press Release
17 December 2024
WFP Statement on Humanitarian Assistance in Northern Rakhine State
WFP is currently unable to verify this information, primarily due to the lack of access to this region. In June 2024, WFP’s warehouse in Maungdaw in northern Rakhine was looted and burnt.Any misappropriation of humanitarian assistance intended for the most vulnerable communities depriving those most in need of lifesaving assistance is unacceptable. WFP reiterates its call on all parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations under International Humanitarian law to respect and protect humanitarian personnel and assets. The overall food security situation in Myanmar, already alarming, continues to deteriorate. Alongside ongoing conflicts, recent climatic shocks and the economic slowdown are further exacerbating hunger and malnutrition in Myanmar. In 2024, 1.7 million people across the country received WFP food, nutrition, and resilience-building support.About WFPThe United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @WFP_Media @WFPAsiaPacific, filtered_html
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Press Release
13 December 2024
Increased Support Needed for Myanmar in 2025 to Reach 5.5 Million People in Desperate Need
The 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) for Myanmar that was launched today requests US$1.1 billion to provide life-saving assistance to 5.5 million people struggling to survive the impacts of a humanitarian crisis that has devastated countless lives. Humanitarian needs are soaring to unprecedented levels in Myanmar, with an estimated 19.9 million people in need of assistance in 2025, including 6.3 million children. The humanitarian crisis is fuelled by conflict that has escalated since the military takeover in 2021, as well as disasters, epidemics, widespread explosive ordnance and landmine contamination, and economic decline. Civilians across the country, including women and children, are facing the painful consequences of this crisis. Conflict has driven people to flee their homes and livelihoods in record numbers. It is estimated that almost 3.5 million people across Myanmar are internally displaced, approximately one third of them children. Education and health services are severely disrupted. Millions of people are without safe shelter or drinking water. More than 15 million people are expected to face food insecurity in 2025. People are confronted with grave protection threats, and coping capacities are stretched to the limit. The crisis is spilling over across the region, with 1.3 million Myanmar refugees and asylum seekers in neighbouring countries.To respond to this crisis, the 2025 HNRP outlines a cohesive plan to address complex and evolving needs across the country. The 2025 HNRP is the result of heavy prioritization to meet the most urgent needs, focusing on life-saving interventions. The 5.5 million people prioritized for assistance are the most severely affected – help for them cannot wait.Scaled-up support for Myanmar in 2025 is urgently needed to prevent the crisis from deteriorating into a catastrophic situation. Dangerously low levels of funding in 2024 drastically affected the capacity of humanitarian partners to deliver life-saving aid to people who had been prioritized for urgent assistance. With only 34 per cent of the 2024 HNRP funding requirements received to date, partners were unable to provide the depth, frequency and quality of assistance that was planned, leaving millions of people without aid. Without the required funds in 2025, humanitarian partners will have to prioritize further, favouring lower-cost life-saving and critical activities that do not offer the required depth of relief or contribute to people’s overall well-being, offer dignified living conditions, meet global standards, or provide a chance of finding durable solutions.Despite formidable challenges, aid workers continue to deliver aid to those most in need. With the generous support of donors, humanitarians reached 3 million people in need in the first three quarters of 2024. With solidarity and increased support from the international community, the humanitarian community will be ready to collectively step up in 2025 to save lives and protect the most vulnerable.The HNRP is available here: https://humanitarianaction.info/plan/1275/document/myanmar-humanitarian-needs-and-response-plan-2025 , filtered_html
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