"“CARE urges all ASEAN member states to use the summit in Jakarta on 24 April to push Myanmar’s military authorities to end all violations against people in Myanmar and ensure unfettered access for aid agencies. The humanitarian situation in Myanmar has deteriorated starkly since the 1 February coup, with food insecurity and conflict-related displacement on the rise. The impact on the public health system is of grave concern, particularly given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “The fallout of the coup threatens to spark a wider regional crisis with thousands of people already fleeing across international borders in search of safety. CARE implores neighbouring countries to grant refuge to those escaping violence and refrain from pushing back people in need of protection. “The pre-monsoon cyclone season, which has just started in Myanmar, threatens to exacerbate the already desperate humanitarian situation. We know that women, girls and other vulnerable groups are often disproportionately affected during emergencies. CARE and other aid agencies must be granted access to any affected communities to avert a complete humanitarian catastrophe. “ASEAN member states must work together, with other countries in the region and the international community, to find a durable and peaceful solution to this crisis. The girls, boys, women and men of Myanmar depend on it.” Founded in 1945, CARE is one of the largest and oldest humanitarian aid organisations fighting global poverty. CARE has a special focus on empowering and meeting the needs of women and girls and promoting gender equality and works in 100 countries around the world. For media enquiries contact: Suzy Sainovski (based in Melbourne, Australia) Asia Pacific Regional Communications & Media Advisor, CARE International Email: [email protected] Skype: suzy.sainovski Mobile: + 61 3 429 418 353..."