Myanmar Emergency Update (as of 1 July 2024)

Overview

Violence and displacement continue to ripple across Myanmar. Over 1.6 million people have been displaced since the escalation of fighting in October 2023, forcing some to seek safety in neighbouring countries. The situation in Rakhine State remains deeply concerning, with access restrictions driving up the cost of basic items and exacerbating hardships. In Rakhine State (North), the seizure of food and other goods, along with the destruction of WFP and ICRC warehouses, undermined the delivery of assistance to those in need. In Kachin State, conflict approached within 6 km of the capital, Myitkyina. Similarly, in Lashio, the capital of Shan State (North), fighting displaced thousands of people, mostly to the south. Shan State (South) experienced increased fighting near its border with Kayah State, causing more people to flee to safer areas like Nyangshwe Township. In Pekon Township, Shan State (South), diarrhea outbreaks at a displacement site were reported with cases likely to increase into the monsoon season. The State Administration Council continues to restrict the use of virtual private networks on smartphones, leading to phone inspections and extortion in Yangon, Mandalay, Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Magway regions.

In Thailand, as of 1 July, no refugees remain in the Temporary Safety Areas (TSAs).

Since February 2021, about 66,100 people from Myanmar’s north-west region have sought protec-tion in India, with 7,150 people registering with UNHCR in New Delhi. On 11 June, Manipur’s Chief Minister announced the phased deportation of nearly 40 Myanmar nationals via the Moreh check post. The State government reportedly deported 38 “illegal immigrants” on 2 May, bringing the total to 76 deportations so far. UNHCR continues to raise its concerns to Indian authorities over these developments with respect to the principle of non-refoulement in view of the volatile security situation in Myanmar. On 18 June, India's Permanent Mission in Geneva expressed concerns about Myanmar nationals crossing into India's northeastern states and related transnational crimes. He also reiterated India’s support for ASEAN's efforts and the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. On 26 June, India's External Affairs Minister met senior Myanmar leaders, stressing the impact of Myanmar's instability on India's borders and India's commitment to engaging all stakeholders. India’s Home Minister assured Mizoram’s Chief Minister that the government would provide humanitarian assistance to Myanmar arrivals in the state. The humanitarian needs of Myanmar arrivals in Mizoram and Manipur are growing as more people continue to seek refuge in the two states. Humanitarian agencies and state governments have appealed for more resources to meet arrivals' needs, which include food, shelter, WASH and health.