Statement by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. for Myanmar

The humanitarian community condemns in the strongest terms the escalation of violence that has led to heavy civilian casualties in Myanmar. There are alarming reports of civilians being killed in Maungdaw and Lashio in recent days while attempting to flee ongoing fighting. These tragic incidents are part of a deeply concerning trend in the intensifying conflict, with the distinction between civilians and combatants not being made and civilians bearing the brunt of a brutal conflict that has upended millions of lives. 

All parties to the conflict are reminded that protection of all civilians is an obligation under International Humanitarian Law. Those who are fleeing conflict must be granted safe passage. With widespread fighting in Myanmar displacing people across the country, the protection of all civilians must be assured.