Education in Burma/Myanmar - general

expand all
collapse all

Websites/Multiple Documents

Source/publisher: Various sources via "BurmaNet News"
Date of entry/update: 2012-04-18
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: 15 articles on education in Burma/Myanmar: "The ?missing million?: Fewer than one in five graduate high school" By Stuart Alan Becker - "A groundbreaking multi-year education review cites ?lack of interest? as primary reason for dropouts, confirms need for sector reform..." "The high cost of ?free? ed" By Mya Kay Khine - "The recently approved decision to offer free high-school education is the last of a three-prong lifting of fees for the country?s roughly 8 million state school students..." "VOXPOP: What?s ahead for your child?" By Nay Zaw Aung Win. "U Tin Aung, 49, Tarmwe - My son is in the third year of secondary school at MLA International School..." "University application process to be reformed" By May Thinzar Naing - "Proposed overhaul of the university entrance process will mean less focus on matriculation scores and more on self-directed applications by students..." "International school fees to rise: What?s driving the price?" By Michelle Schaner - "The majority of international schools in Yangon expect to hike tuition in the 2015-2016 academic year by an additional 9 percent on average, citing devaluation of the local currency and the high cost of living ? particularly the cost of housing for staff and teachers..." "Draft law in works for international schools" By Shwe Yee Saw Myint - "Until it passes, however, the legal status of international schools will remain difficult to pin down, despite their rapidly growing numbers..." "Better skills in a land of entrepreneurs" By Rupin Mahiyaria - "Peace in Kayin means fewer economic migrants to Thailand ? and more opportunity to educate those at home, writes LIFT?s Rupin Mahiyaria..." ?Living heritage? By Cherry Thein - "With royal patronage long gone, state support for young artists, dancers and musicians today falls to a handful of arts schools..." ?If we buy a dozen it?s cheaper? By Myat Noe Oo - "Nothing offsets the sting of a new school year like the promise of new pencils and paper ? not to mention pens, highlighters, soft pens, erasers, liquid correction fluid, notebooks, and, if you?re lucky, maybe a few stickers to decorate your pages too..." "Pioneering classrooms" By Ewan Cameron - "With their focus on development and community involvement, non-profit civil-society educators aren?t just filling gaps, writes Ewan Cameron ? they?re rethinking how education should work..." "For Chin dialects, a long road back to the classroom" By Bill O?Toole - "Walking around Falam, the former capital of Chin State, a person can expect to hear no less than eight different Chin dialects widely spoken around town..." "Charting the rise of English tutors" - By Alasdair Macmillan "The recent history of English tutoring in Yangon started in the 1950s, when Monica Mya Maung, affectionately known as Aunty Monica to those who knew her well, started tutoring Myanmar people to speak English well..." "Lining up for private schools" By Phyo Wai Kyaw - "Since their reintroduction three years ago, private schools have been a hit..." ?Completely outdated? By Myo Lwin - "Clinical psychologist Dr Nyi Win Hman speaks to MT editor Myo Lwin by email from Australia..." "For those who aspire to study abroad" By San Tun Aung - "Having earned a university degree at home followed by two abroad ? all three under scholarship ? San Tun Aung offers advice to those looking to make their way in the educational world."
Source/publisher: "Myanmar Times"
2015-05-18
Date of entry/update: 2015-08-07
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: About 161,000 results (August 2017)
Source/publisher: Various sources via Youtube
Date of entry/update: 2017-08-20
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English, Burmese (မြန်မာဘာသာ)
more
Description: Contents: 1 History 2 Uniform 3 Preschool and kindergarten 4 Primary education 5 Secondary education 6 Tertiary education 7 References 8 External links
Source/publisher: Wikipedia
Date of entry/update: 2011-11-27
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: "A Myanmar Times special feature - January 2010"...Studying Abroad - How to apply and win a place at a prestigious university...Education sector is flourishing in 2010 - Students enjoy a multitude of study, learning options...Dubious agents entice students short of visa...Students voice concerns about studying in Aus...Garden school sews new hope...Music facilitates learning where it?s most needed...Pre-schools boom in Mandalay...Professionals choose MBAs...Manage your resources...Spanking habits die hard...Where to study and how...Malaysia and Singapore compete for young brains...Monastic education...Harvard imparts its wisdom...Scholars be [prepared?- line missing]...A strong CV can catapult your career...International students share their [experience? - line missing]
Source/publisher: "The Myanmar Times"
2010-01-00
Date of entry/update: 2011-09-24
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
Format : pdf
Size: 1.63 MB
more
Description: ''Education helps children to fulfil their potential and is critical to all aspects of socio-economic development. However, it is estimated that over one million children are still out of school in Myanmar due to poverty, geographical remoteness, disability, language, conflict and other barriers. Myanmar’s Government is leading the process of national education reform. A Comprehensive Education Sector Review (CESR) has been informing new policy and planning, and a National Education Sector Plan (NESP) is being developed to define the strategic directions of the reform process and to guide its implementation. Education coordination is mainly undertaken through: The Joint Education Sector Working Group (JESWG), which is the high level mechanism for policy dialogue and coordination of government and development partners in the education sector, chaired by the Ministry of Education and co-chaired by UNICEF and Australia. The Education Thematic Working Group (ETWG) brings together education stakeholders across the country in an inclusive, neutral space for dialogue on technical issues. Chaired by UNICEF and Save the Children, the ETWG also oversees the coordination of Humanitarian Response for the education sector. The ETWG is supported by the Myanmar Quality Basic Education Programme (QBEP), which is funded by the Multi Donor Education Fund (MDEF) comprising Australia, Denmark, the European Union, Norway and the United Kingdom, and by UNICEF in collaboration with the Government of Myanmar. It has a number of thematic Sub-Working Groups, contact details for which can be found on the MIMU Coordination page: Disaster Preparedness and Response in Education (Co-Chairs: UNESCO, Plan International) Early Childhood Care and Development (Co-Chairs: UNICEF, Save the Children) Education and Disability (Co-Chairs: Myanmar Education Consortium, VSO) Education in Emergencies (Co-Chairs: UNICEF, Save the Children) Teacher Education (Co-chairs: UNICEF, British Council) Education and Language (Co-Chairs: UNICEF, Pyoe Pin) Non-Formal Education (Co-Chairs: World Education, World Vision) School Construction (Co-Chairs: Swiss Development Cooperation, World Vision) A new group on Monastic Education is planned for early 2015...''
Source/publisher: Myanmar Information Management Unit (MIMU)
1970-01-01
Date of entry/update: 2019-02-07
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: 9 links to Myanmar reports and other material, 1999-2013
Source/publisher: International Institute for Educational Planning
Date of entry/update: 2014-09-28
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: "Education helps children to fulfil their potential and is critical to all aspects of socio-economic development. However, it is estimated that over one million children are still out of school in Myanmar due to poverty, geographical remoteness, disability, language, conflict and other barriers. Myanmar?s Government is leading the process of national education reform. A Comprehensive Education Sector Review (CESR) has been informing new policy and planning, and a National Education Sector Plan (NESP) is being developed to define the strategic directions of the reform process and to guide its implementation..."
Source/publisher: MIMU
Date of entry/update: 2015-08-07
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English, Burmese (မြန်မာဘာသာ)
more
Description: Current focus (November 2011) on private schools in Burma
Source/publisher: Network Myanmar
Date of entry/update: 2011-11-22
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: 217,000 hits (June 2014)
Source/publisher: Google
Date of entry/update: 2014-06-02
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: With links to educational related reports.
Source/publisher: Myanmar Information Management Unit
Date of entry/update: 2014-09-27
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
Description: Links to Myanmar: Profile of Education... National Reports... IBEDOCS Resources... Links... WEBSITES Country Information (UNESCO) Education Statistics (UIS) Education Plans and Policies (IIEP) - See more at: http://www.ibe.unesco.org/en/worldwide/unesco-regions/asia-and-the-pacific/myanmar.html#sthash.FVpYsVVb.dpuf
Source/publisher: UNESCO
Date of entry/update: 2008-04-06
Grouping: Websites/Multiple Documents
Language: English
more
expand all
collapse all

Individual Documents

Description: "OVERVIEW: Three years after the events of 1 February 2021, widespread conflict continues to drive displacement and exacerbate needs across multiple states and regions in Myanmar. Intensified airstrikes, artillery shelling, drone attacks as well as the use of antipersonnel landmines and cluster bombs are impacting forcibly displaced people and host communities, particularly in Rakhine State and the North-West Region. Humanitarian access constraints continued to expose people to various protection risks and restrict the delivery of critical assistance and protection. Coping capacities have been stretched to the limit, with food, emergency shelter and core relief items (CRIs) identified as the most urgent needs. The recent announcement of mandatory conscription by the de facto authorities has sparked fear among young men and women and an uptick in the number of people fleeing Myanmar into neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh. UNHCR continues to call for states to respect the principle of non-refoulement and advocate for access to safety and asylum as well as lifesaving and emergency services for Rohingya arrivals from Myanmar. In Thailand, no new arrivals were recorded by the Royal Thai Government in February. Nevertheless, to support preparedness efforts, the Inter-Sector Working Group launched the 2024 Refugee Preparedness and Response Plan, an inter-agency document based on agreed scenarios and contingency planning discussions to support Thai authorities' response. In view of the current situation in Myanmar, 15 humanitarian agencies are planning for up to 40,000 arrivals from Myanmar by year-end. The response focuses on seven sectors – education, food, health, CRIs, protection, shelter and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) – with a total ask of some $17 million. In India, approximately 59,300 individuals from Myanmar’s North-West region have sought protection since February 2021. Out of this population, 5,682 individuals are in New Delhi and have registered with UNHCR. During the reporting period, the Union Home Minister of India announced plans to fence the India-Myanmar border and discontinue the Free Movement Regime (FMR), citing rising insecurity. India and Myanmar currently share a largely unfenced border giving people from both countries residing close to the border the right to move into each other's territory without travel documents. On 17 February, the Mizoram Chief Minister expressed the state government’s opposition to these plans and on 28 February, the Mizoram assembly passed a resolution urging the Government of India to reconsider its decision. A five-member non-governmental organization (NGO) coordination committee in Mizoram also submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Minister opposing the proposal. In Manipur, the Chief Minister announced plans to identify and deport individuals who arrived and established residence in the state after 1961 due to the current instability and insecurity. The security situation in Manipur remains sensitive with incidents of violence and gunfights being reported from across the state. Despite the mounting humanitarian needs Myanmar arrivals in Mizoram and Manipur face, state governments and humanitarian agencies do not have sufficient resources to sustain the food, shelter, and WASH response. Access challenges due to the security situation and mobility restrictions in some locations in Manipur have also compounded the situation..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2024-03-25
Date of entry/update: 2024-03-28
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 9.53 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 3 March, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued end of March 2024. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Across Myanmar 18.6 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in 2024, with people struggling to survive amid conflict and insecurity, civilian safety and protection threats, as well as soaring inflation that is affecting people’s ability to meet basic needs. • Conflict spans various parts of the country with a deteriorating situation in Rakhine, as well as the Northwest and Southeast, driving new displacement. Nationwide, more than 2.7 million people are now displaced. • In Rakhine, people were killed and injured in Sittwe when a stray shell, landed in the downtown market on 29 February. • The closure of roads and waterways in Rakhine since the renewed conflict in November 2023 has led to food scarcity and other supply shortages, as well as increased prices of essential goods. • The situation in northern Shan has been relatively stable following the ceasefire agreed in January. However, landmine contamination, recruitment by armed groups, isolated tensions and movement restrictions remain a threat to local communities. UN staff temporarily relocated from Lashio will soon be returning due to the improved security situation. • Active fighting, administrative restrictions being imposed by all sides, and violence and harassment of humanitarian personnel remain key barriers to accessing affected people and providing lifesaving assistance. • At least 3.2 million people were reached with assistance in 2023 however this support is not as deep or sustained as planned due to underfunding and access constraints. • Through the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan aid workers aim to reach 5.3 million people with urgent assistance for which $994 million is required. A repeat of 2023 funding levels (HRP 37 per cent funded) in 2024 would be catastrophic for affected people..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2024-03-03
Date of entry/update: 2024-03-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 536.21 KB
more
Description: "OVERVIEW: At the close of 2023, Myanmar was entrenched in a deepening humanitarian crisis with the civilian population facing new dimensions of conflict across multiple fronts that are driving surging displacement and escalating humanitarian needsincreasing fear for their lives and is now grappling with exhausted coping capacities. The humanitarian situation remained dire at year’s end, primarily fueled by profound protection risks from conflict and discrimination, compounded by a range of challenges such as food insecurity, a beleaguered health system, disrupted education, and the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha which struck Myanmar in May and affected more than three million people. Inflation and conflict have led to a sharp increase in the price of essential items, leaving vulnerable households hungry and economically distressed, pushing many to resort to negative coping measures for survival. The final days of 2023 witnessed intense fighting across the majority of states and regions, compelling civilians to flee their homes, often multiple times, largely due to fears of indiscriminate attacks and the use of aerial bombardment. As of 31 December, more than 2.6 million people were estimated to be displaced nationwide, facing dire conditions and inadequate shelter, often in informal sites, with a desperate need for basic services like clean water. Those on the move are confronting escalating risks from explosive ordnance, and individuals in protracted displacement situations are seeing their vulnerabilities compounded over time. The cumulative impact of conflict, displacement, poverty, and natural disasters underscores the gravity of the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, necessitating urgent and comprehensive interventions to alleviate the suffering of the affected population. Humanitarian efforts in 2023 faced severe hindrances due to access constraints and bureaucratic impediments, with at least 142 arrests and detentions of aid workers reported. However, advocacy persists for expanded access to conflict areas, particularly in regions where bureaucratic hindrances have intensified since the escalation of conflict in late October. Despite these challenges, resilient humanitarian actors used a range of approaches to reach at least 3.2 million people with assistance at least once. It is also likely that actual reach is higher due to underreporting of assistance in conflict areas but this remains difficult to quantify. While the number of people reached is substantial in the circumstances, this reach falls short of the envisioned depth and sustainability due to substantial underfunding, resulting in an unprecedented level of unmet needs (1.8 million people missed), which is expected to persist into 2024. As of 31January 2024, funding against the 2023 Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan had reached $324 million which is only 37 per cent of the requested funding, leaving a significant $563 million funding gap. Urgent attention and a substantial increase in financial support for both humanitarian and development actors are imperative to bridge this gap in 2024. Analysis of reach Humanitarians reached 65 per cent (3.2 million people) of the annual HRP target set at 5 million individuals, with more than half a million people impacted by cyclone Mocha assisted via a range of modalities. Notably, close to 1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) received assistance during the course of the year, reflecting a concerted effort in 2023 to better address the needs of one of these critically vulnerable groups. This is a 33 per cent increase on the number of IDPs reached in 2022 but still means that there were significant gaps in assisting newly displaced people in hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, more than 1.8 million of people reached fall within the category of other crisis-affected people with humanitarian needs, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by the population and humanitarian efforts to support non-displaced populations due to the collapse of basic services and in the absence of large-scale development interventions. This is unsustainable in the longer-term and underscores the need for complimentary development funding to build community resilience. The data also underscores a specific emphasis on children in the response, with the number of boys and girls reached steadily increasing each quarter, indicating an awareness of the vulnerabilities children face in crisis situations. Furthermore, there is a consistent and commendable effort to reach persons with disabilities, as reflected in the steadily increasing numbers throughout the year. This commitment has led to a more inclusive approach to humanitarian assistance, recognizing and actively addressing the specific challenges confronted by this group, though overall numbers of persons with disabilities reached still remain far behind those targeted for humanitarian assistance. The data also reveals a consistent trend wherein the number of women reached exceeds that of men, showcasing a heightened awareness of gender-specific vulnerabilities. Thanks to the concentrated efforts of the clusters in enhancing outreach and bolstering partner capacity, the count of partners reporting their progress grew significantly from 222 in 2022 to 269 in 2023. Likewise, the overall number of participating cluster partners (those participating in cluster meetings and activities) increased from 238 in 2022 to 272 in 2023. The majority of partners are thus now regularly sharing their progress on their humanitarian response activities. Despite formidable access constraints, humanitarian operations demonstrated resilience by expanding into hard-to-reach areas, achieving 64 per cent of those targeted in the Southeast. A notable increase was also seen in people reach figure from 269,600 at the end of 2022 to 536,000 in the close of 2023, reflecting a significant expansion in coverage of assistance. The Northeast and Rakhine experienced a notable scale-up in assistance, with rates of 112 per cent and 88 per cent respectively with the quarter 4 escalation in fighting and Cyclone Mocha likely to be key factors in the increased response effort in these areas. Encouragingly, the clusters covering education, food security, protection, and shelter/NFI/CCCM noted improved results against escalating needs reaching anywhere between 65 per cent up to 90 per cent of their targets by the conclusion of 2023. The Health Cluster reported only 31 per cent reach, although to some extent this is the result of underreporting of this type of activity..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2024-02-21
Date of entry/update: 2024-02-21
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 662.54 KB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS: The situation in Myanmar deteriorated significantly in the last quarter of 2023 with the escalation of armed clashes and increasing of grave violations against children. More than 2.6 million people are internally displaced by the end of 2023, an increase of 1.1 million since the same time in last year. In 2023, UNICEF received 16.7 per cent of its Myanmar Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal of US$ 217.9 million. Despite the huge funding gap and multiple constraints, UNICEF and its partner reached almost 1.8 million children and their families. Despite the funding limitation, measles vaccination reached 93 per cent against the target. UNICEF and its partners able to support children’s education access up to 75 per cent of the target while 63 per cent of WASH supplies and 53 per cent achieved for severe acute malnutrition (SAM) admissions due to the complementary funding and programmatic modalities. SITUATION IN NUMBERS 5,800,000 Children in need of humanitarian assistance 18,100,000 People in need of humanitarian assistance 2,310,900 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 306,200 People in protracted displacement before Feb 2021 FUNDING OVERVIEW AND PARTNERSHIPS UNICEF Myanmar appealed for US$217.9 million in 2023 to address the needs of 3.7 million people, including 2.3 million children. At the end of 2023, the Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) remains severely underfunded with a funding gap of 83.3 per cent. UNICEF secured US$36.50 million (US$27.28 million in 2023 and $9.22 million carried over from 2022), representing 16.7 per cent of its 2023 HAC appeal. The humanitarian needs remain high going into 2024 as reflected in UNICEF’s 2024 HAC appeal. In 2023, UNICEF received generous support from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), the United States Fund for UNICEF, the European Commission’s Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations Department (DG ECHO), the Government of Canada, the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Government of Norway, the Royal Thai Government, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) along with the Central Emergency Response Fund, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Czech Committee for UNICEF, the French Committee for UNICEF, the German Committee for UNICEF and Gavi the Vaccine Alliance. UNICEF Myanmar also received internal allocations from global humanitarian thematic funding and the Emergency Programme Fund (EPF) loan to support the provision of the humanitarian response. Additionally, UNICEF provided humanitarian leadership and cluster coordination and strengthened protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA). With this support, UNICEF delivered life-saving humanitarian assistance and ensured critical services reached almost 1.8 million children and their families in need. For the year 2024, UNICEF will scale up programmes and approaches to reach more vulnerable children and communities. UNICEF expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions in supporting the children of Myanmar..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2024-02-14
Date of entry/update: 2024-02-14
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 11.34 MB
more
Description: "An airstrike by the Myanmar military on a school in Daw Si Ei village in Kayah State on 5 February left 4 children dead and 10 injured. The school teaches children aged 5-14 years of age. The air strike destroyed 90% of the school building. On the International Day to Protect Education from Attack in 2023, the UN listed Myanmar among Ukraine and Burkina Faso as the three countries with the largest number of attacks against education..."
Source/publisher: European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations
2024-02-06
Date of entry/update: 2024-02-06
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "OVERVIEW In Myanmar, the humanitarian situation remained precarious following the escalation of violence since 26 October 2023 with armed clashes, artillery shelling, and indiscriminate shooting reported in about two thirds of the country. According to the UN, the number of displaced people inside Myanmar now exceeds 2.6 million. Almost 800,000 people have been newly displaced since late-October, out of whom 164,000 have either returned to their places of origin or fled for a second time across the North-West, North-East, South-East and Rakhine State. Deepening violence, rising poverty levels, and deteriorating living conditions are having a devastating impact on people’s lives. The situation has also been further compounded by the closure of roads and waterways, movement restrictions and telecommunication challenges, all of which are undermining humanitarian actors’ engagement with affected communities and limiting people’s access to critical services. UNHCR and partners are exploring ways to adapt to the volatile situation and respond to the urgent needs on the ground. In Thailand, some 1,400 refugees were sheltered in two Temporary Safety Areas (TSA) in Mae Hong Son Province (170 in Mae Sariang District and 1,249 in Mueang District), according to the Mae Hong Son Border Command Centre. In December, 968 refugees residing in different TSAs returned to Myanmar. Kyaw Pla Kee TSA in Mae Sariang was also closed during the reporting period. In India, around 59,200 individuals from Myanmar’s North-West region have sought protection since February 2021. Out of this population, some 5,500 individuals are in New Delhi and have registered with UNHCR. Since November 2023, more than 6,500 people have arrived in the Champhai and Siaha districts of Mizoram and 2,000 people in Manipur’s Kamjong District. New arrivals are currently living in cramped conditions in community halls, schools as well as with host families whose resources are already over-stretched. District administrations, NGOs and community-based organizations are providing critical humanitarian support. Food, water, core-relief items (CRIs), and shelter are the most immediate needs although resources are limited..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2024-01-26
Date of entry/update: 2024-01-26
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 13.09 MB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY MESSAGES 2023 drew to a close with continued intense fighting across vast swathes of the country, record displacement, and pervasive protection threats facing the civilian population. The escalation in fighting since the end of October 2023 has persisted for more than two months and is the largest in scale and most extensive geographically since early 2021. At the end of 2023, more than 2.6 million people were estimated to be displaced nationwide, with an estimated 628,000 people forced to flee since the intensification of fighting at the end of October. Humanitarians continue to face heavy access constraints and bureaucratic impediment. More than 142 aid worker arrests and detentions by parties to the conflict were self-reported by humanitarian organizations between January and November 2023. Advocacy continues for expanded access to conflict areas, especially in areas where bureaucratic impediments have accelerated since the conflict escalation at the end of October. Humanitarians have stayed and delivered in 2023, reaching at least 2.5 million people with assistance in the first 9 months of the year and expecting to have assisted 3.1 million people by year’s end. However, this reach is not as deep or sustained as planned due to gross underfunding of the response, leaving significant unmet needs that are flowing into 2024. The 2023 Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan received just 32 per cent of requested funding in 2023, leaving a $600 million funding gap. The 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan has been published identifying a record 18.6 million people in need, up from 17.6 million in 2023. The Plan prioritizes 5.3 million people for urgent assistance in 2024 for which $994 million is required. The Myanmar translation of the 2024 HNRP executive summary can be found here. Nearly three years since the military takeover, the crisis in Myanmar risks becoming a forgotten emergency. The situation demands immediate and sustained international attention in 2024 to raise the funds required to alleviate suffering and save lives. KEY FIGURES* 2.6M Total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 2.3M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 306K People who remain internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 18.6M People in Need 2024 5.3M People targeted for assistance 2024 $994M Requirement 2024 * Displacement figures fluctuate during any given month. These figures represent the number of people currently verified as displaced. Cumulative numbers for returns and displacement are not always available. 2023 YEAR-END SITUATION OVERVIEW Myanmar stands at the precipice at the end of 2023 with a deepening humanitarian crisis that has spiralled since the February 2021. The civilian population is living in fear for their lives, with coping capacities stretched to the limit. The crisis is now marked by surging displacement, a fragile security environment, profound protection threats and escalating unmet needs. The humanitarian situation remains grim at year’s end, largely fuelled by protection risks and conflict, compounded by a myriad of challenges, including food insecurity, a health system in crisis, disrupted education, huge numbers of people on the move amid fears for their safety, and the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha which struck Myanmar in May affecting 3 million people. Inflation and conflict are driving up the price of food, fuel, and other basic items, leaving vulnerable households hungry and in economic distress with increasing numbers resorting to negative coping measures to survive. The final days of 2023 have been marked by continued intense fighting across a majority of states and regions, with civilians fleeing their homes often multiple times, in large part due to fears over attacks. As of 25 December, more than 2.6 million people estimated were displaced nationwide, with most surviving in terrible conditions, lacking adequate shelter, most often in informal sites and in desperate need of access to basic services such as clean water. People on the move continue to be exposed to escalating explosive ordnance risks, and those in situations of protracted displacement face intensification of their vulnerabilities over time..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2024-01-12
Date of entry/update: 2024-01-12
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 895.24 KB
more
Description: "Highlights More than 2.6 million people nationally are internally displaced and in need of life-saving assistance. The escalation of conflict has a disproportionate impact on children with suffering mental health and psychosocial impacts from witnessing or experiencing violence, as well as new or prolonged displacement. A total of 858 casualties have been reported nationwide in the first nine months of 2023, injured by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW); 22 per cent of the casualties were children. 29,980 people received mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) at child-friendly spaces, community centres, from mobile teams, and by remote counselling. The funding gap of 84.8 per cent is severely affecting UNICEF’s capacity to respond effectively; especially children who need basic social services, will not be able to receive humanitarian assistance. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs At the end of 2023, more than 2.6 million people are internally displaced with the need for life-saving assistance. More than 660,000 people are estimated to be newly displaced in northern and southern Shan, Rakhine, the southeast and the northwest regions. In addition, at least 378 civilians have reportedly been killed and 505 injured since the escalation of armed conflict that began in late October. The key challenge for humanitarian workers is the restriction of movement, including the use of roadblocks. Inflation and the depreciation of the local currency is affecting the flow of commodities, depleting stocks in the markets and sharply increasing the price of essential items. The lack of fuel is affecting transportation, telecommunications, the agricultural and industrial sectors and is impacting the delivery of supplies to internally displaced persons in conflict-affected townships. Telecommunications and internet services in Kachin have been extremely unreliable, with limited or no access in some areas as well as in the northwest and Kayah impacting the displaced population’s access to services and information. The escalation of conflict has a disproportionate impact on children. Children suffer mental health and psychosocial impacts from witnessing or experiencing violence, as well as new or prolonged displacement. In northern Shan, the conflict remains intense with continuous fighting across several townships. Artillery shelling and multiple airstrikes have increased the number of civilian casualties, with unverified reports of 130 civilians killed and 210 injured since the fighting escalated. Some 104,300 people are newly displaced in northern Shan, as well as in Kachin and Mandalay, while almost 20,000 people have returned home, particularly to nearby villages at Lashio township. Lashio airport has been closed for seven weeks and access by road is worsening, with increased restrictions on humanitarian supplies at various checkpoints. All townships in Rakhine State continue to be affected by severe blockades, movement restrictions, arbitrary arrests, and artillery shelling; 37 civilian deaths and 121 injuries were reported. Arbitrary arrests have escalated across Rakhine, with more than 190 people placed in detention; humanitarian workers have also been affected by this. Some 114,700 people have been newly displaced due to the ongoing fighting. Across the northwest and central Myanmar, the intensifying conflict has resulted in 118 civilian deaths and 73 injured with more than 314,000 people newly displaced. More than one million people are now displaced in Sagaing region, and more than 60 per cent of the population displaced after February 2021 remains in the northwest region. Humanitarian workers and some 110 civilians have been reportedly arrested since early December. Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose a major risk in the northwest. An estimated 150,000 internally displaced people in Kawlin and Tigyaing townships in Sagaing have no access to humanitarian assistance. In the southeast, intense clashes are increasing, especially in Kawtkareik, Kyainnseikkyi and Hpapun in Kayin and Nyaunglebin and Kyaukkyi in Bago East. More than 136,000 people have been newly displaced since the escalation began with 93 civilians reported dead, and 101 injured, many of them along the Shan-Kayah border. Access to, and transportation of, essential supplies are heavily restricted, especially in Kayah..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2024-01-10
Date of entry/update: 2024-01-10
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 453.39 KB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS: The situation of children has worsened and remains a significant concern in Myanmar, with ongoing and escalating conflict leading to multiple displacements and the deterioration of social services in conflict-affected communities. Cyclone Mocha, which hit in May 2023, caused widespread destruction in five states, and seasonal monsoons negatively impacted already vulnerable communities. More than 18.6 million people, including 6 million children, are in need of humanitarian assistance. UNICEF's humanitarian strategy focuses on working with local civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations and other United Nations agencies to broaden the humanitarian response for children in all conflict-affected states and regions. For 2024, UNICEF is appealing for $208.3 million to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to 3.1 million people, including 2.1 million children. UNICEF aims to reach 850,000 people with critical WASH supplies; 350,000 children and women with primary health care services; and more than 890,000 children with education. HUMANITARIAN SITUATION AND NEEDS The worsening situation of children remains a significant concern in Myanmar, with ongoing and escalating conflict leading to multiple displacements and the deterioration of social services in conflict-affected communities. Nearly 2 million people were displaced internally as of the end of October 2023, including 306,200 people who had been displaced prior to the military takeover in February 2021. Adding to this, in 2023, Cyclone Mocha caused widespread destruction in five states, and seasonal monsoons negatively impacted already vulnerable communities. Altogether, more than 18.6 million people, including 6 million children, require humanitarian assistance. Grave child rights violations persist, mainly due to the indiscriminate use of heavy weapons, airstrikes, explosive ordnance and recruitment and use of children. Attacks on schools and hospitals continue at alarming levels. Approximately 4.5 million children need education support because of disruption to safe learning opportunities.12 Women and children face significant risks of violence, including gender-based violence, exploitation and abuse. Children and adults with disabilities are especially vulnerable and have limited access to services that meet their disability-specific needs. A deteriorating economic situation has limited livelihood opportunities, further worsening the plight of the most vulnerable people. More than 55 per cent of children live in poverty, while three quarters of displaced households’ basic needs are unmet. Access to water and life-saving services has deteriorated: a significant number of children are still not able to access basic health and nutrition interventions due to insecurity and other forms of restriction. The under-five mortality rate of 42 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022 remains the highest in the region, and up to 75 per cent of children aged 6–23 months do not eat a minimum acceptable diet. Although immunization coverage increased to approximately 70 per cent in 2022 from 37 per cent in 2021, an estimated 1 million children missed basic vaccines from 2018 to 2022. Camp closures and the forced return or relocation of displaced people, particularly in Kachin, Shan and Rakhine States pose protection risks for children. Armed clashes, widespread presence of landmines and unexploded ordinance and a lack of basic services remain obstacles to return. And the proposed Rohingya repatriation from Bangladesh in the absence of conditions for voluntary and safe returns will present further protection concerns in 2024. Military operations, ongoing hostilities and administrative constraints (e.g., travel authorization-related delays and movement restrictions) impede access of humanitarian actors to people in need, impacting the timely delivery of programme supplies. The politicization of humanitarian assistance compounds this challenge..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-12-11
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-28
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 2.72 MB
more
Description: "Myanmar faces a protracted learning crisis where the COVID-19 pandemic was compounded by a coup in February 2021, which furthered school closures. Save the Children created Catch-up Clubs (CuCs) to support children’s remedial learning in a matter of weeks and address barriers to children’s successful return to school in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. An innovative model that offers community-led, play-based literacy instruction to children grouped by ability, not age, CuCs assess children’s foundational literacy and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), while addressing child protection and economic barriers to education. CuCs were piloted with over 3000 children in upper primary to lower secondary grades across 36 communities in the conflict-affected states of Rakhine and Kayin in Myanmar. This quasi-natural experimental impact evaluation investigated the cause-and-effect relationship between CuCs and children's literacy outcomes and SEL competencies. The study was contextually adapted to consider children affected by conflict, gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. The results show that children who participated in CuCs had significantly higher literacy level and SEL competency than children who did not participate. Children participating in CuCs also showed greater self-confidence and educational aspirations to remain in education or continue their schooling to a higher level..."
Source/publisher: Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies
2023-12-18
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-18
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.09 MB
more
Description: "Foreword As we publish this 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), escalating fighting, surging displacement and extreme protection threats are now impacting vast swathes of the country, compounding the devastating impacts of Cyclone Mocha in May, and placing the people of Myanmar in increasing peril. Three years on from the military takeover, the humanitarian landscape for 2024 is grim with a third of the population – 18.6 million people – now estimated to be in humanitarian need. Children are bearing the brunt of the crisis with 6 million children in need as a result of displacement, interrupted health-care and education, food insecurity and malnutrition, and protection risks including forced recruitment and mental distress. The economic situation is placing families in increasing financial distress and coping capacities are stretched to the limit. Interruptions to agriculture and rapid inflation are making it increasingly difficult for people to access and afford adequate food, raising the spectre of climbing malnutrition. The health system is in crisis and millions are without safe shelter or drinking water. Women, girls, persons with disabilities and stateless Rohingya people are among those impacted the most by this dangerous environment. Development gains are concurrently under extreme threat with poverty now back at levels not seen for 15 years. This Plan paints a deeply disturbing picture that demands global attention and a dramatic increase in funding. Humanitarians require almost a billion dollars to reach 5.3 million people who have been prioritized for urgent assistance. We cannot afford a repeat of the gross underfunding seen in 2023 with only 29 per cent of requirements received. This lack of funding and severe access constraints meant that an estimated 1.9 million people who had been prioritized for support missed out on assistance altogether, while most of the 3.1 million people who were reached with some support did not receive the intended multi-sectoral assistance required to fully meet their needs. Brave aid workers – the majority of them local organizations on the front line of the response – remain committed to staying and delivering and have scaled-up wherever they can over the past three years. However, de-politicization of aid, as well as significantly expanded access and greatly increased funding will be critical to preventing the suffering of everyone prioritized for support in this Plan. Complementary funding is also needed across the nexus to address the persistent growth in humanitarian needs. The absence of large-scale preventative and resilience-building interventions by the broader development community is placing unprecedented pressure on humanitarian caseloads. To reverse current humanitarian trends, greater funding is simultaneously needed in 2024 for broader community development. We thank our generous donors for their ongoing solidarity with the people of Myanmar as needs continue to spiral. But in 2024, we need donors to dig deeper and speak louder to amplify the voices of affected people on the world stage. Millions of lives are at stake and we all must do everything we can to prevent Myanmar becoming a forgotten emergency..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-12-18
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-18
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 7.3 MB (95 pages) - Original version
more
Description: "OVERVIEW: In Myanmar, the humanitarian situation deteriorated following a significant escalation in violence across the country. According to the UN, the number of displaced people inside the country now exceeds 2.1 million. In many parts of Myanmar, a shortage of various goods and supplies across multiple states and regions has been reported as vital roads and supply routes remain blocked. Many people remain cut-off from communications, which has impeded access to services and heightened protection risks and vulnerabilities. UNHCR and partners are continuing to deliver life-saving assistance to displaced and affected communities where possible despite the challenges posed by the ongoing clashes and movement restrictions. In Thailand, the Royal Thai Government reported that over 2,300 refugees were sheltered in three Temporary Safety Areas (TSAs) in Mae Hong Son province as of 30 November. Some 4,400 people returned to Myanmar in November following the closure of the TSAs. However, another 1,000 refugees who returned to Myanmar on 10 November came back to Thailand on 16 November after the resurgence of conflict in Kayah State. There are currently no new arrivals in Mae Hong Son TSAs. Sao Hin TSA in Mae Sariang District closed on 16 November as did Mae Ki TSA in Khum Yuam District on 25 November although Nai Soi TSA remains open. In India, approximately 57,100 individuals from Myanmar’s North-West region are reported to have sought safety in India since February 2021. Out of this population, some 5,500 individuals are in New Delhi and have registered with UNHCR. Over 6,000 individuals are estimated to have made their way to India following the recent escalation in conflict in Myanmar since late October. Since then, more than 5,000 Myanmar nationals have reportedly arrived in Mizoram and nearly 1,300 in Manipur. District administrations, NGOs and community-based organisations (CBOs) provided immediate humanitarian support such as food, water, and shelter. New arrivals are staying in cramped conditions in community halls, schools as well as with host families who are unable to support arrivals for long. Currently, the district administrations, CBOs and NGOs are providing food, shelter, core-relief items (CRIs), water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and health support although resources remain limited, and more funding is needed to scale up this assistance as well winterization support to new arrivals..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-12-15
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 12.71 MB
more
Description: "OVERVIEW: In Myanmar, the humanitarian situation deteriorated significantly after people across North-West, North-East, SouthEast and Rakhine States were newly forcibly displaced due to intensified fighting which erupted on 26 October. IDPs fled to existing and new displacement areas, including along Myanmar’s international borders. Martial Law was imposed on additional townships in multiple states. Key transport routes in various townships became restricted, impacting civilian movement and the delivery of humanitarian aid. Most IDPs and other conflict-affected communities have been unable to access basic services, assistance and protection with humanitarian organisations facing access restrictions due to renewed conflict and insecurity as well as bureaucratic and administrative challenges. In Thailand, the Royal Thai Government reported that 6,800 refugees were sheltered in five Temporary Safety Areas (TSAs) across three districts in Mae Hong Son Province as of 31 October 2023. Some 429 people returned to Myanmar during the reporting period. The Royal Thai Army oversees the TSAs and humanitarian access to these remains limited. In India, approximately 50,600 individuals from Myanmar’s North-West region have sought protection since February 2021. Out of this population, 5,479 individuals were in New Delhi and have registered with UNHCR. Over 120 individuals reportedly returned to Myanmar from Manipur due to the security situation in the state. In late October, community-based organisations (CBOs) reported some new arrivals from Myanmar fleeing armed clashes. Access to healthcare remains restricted due to curfew and security issues in Manipur. Many government facilities in areas affected by unrest are currently dysfunctional. As a result, the local population and Myanmar arrivals rely on the already over-stretched CBOs and NGOs, which have limited resources. To support Myanmar arrivals’ education needs in Manipur, informal learning spaces run by host communities and Myanmar arrivals have partially or completely waived off school fees for the most vulnerable children in Kamjong and Churachandpur districts. CBOs have reported food as the most urgent need in both Mizoram and Manipur although the situation is particularly alarming in Manipur's Kamjong District. More support is needed to address their nutritional needs to reduce the risk of malnutrition..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-12-15
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 12.86 MB
more
Description: "Highlights: More than 500,000 people have been newly displaced and are in urgent need of humanitarian support due to the intense fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces and various ethnic armed organizations in many parts of the country. Nearly 150,000 people have been newly displaced in the northwest and in Mandalay since early November. Shortage of essential items, rising prices and fuel crisis exacerbating the humanitarian situation. UNICEF and partners have reached 477,543 affected people with WASH supplies and services includes 75,774 girls and 77,506 boys. A total of 534,983 children below the age of one were vaccinated against measles and rubella, while 73,742 people receiving primary health care services. Situation in numbers 5,800,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance 18,100,000 people in need (HAC 2023) 1,858,600 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 (UNHCR) 59,500 People displaced to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 306,200 people living in protracted displacement before February 2021 Funding Overview and Partnerships UNICEF Myanmar appealed for US$217.9 million in 2023 to address the needs of 3.7 million people, including 2.3 million children. During this reporting period, UNICEF secured US$32.45 million (US$23.23 million in 2023 and $9.22 million carried over from 2022), representing 14.9 per cent of its 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal. UNICEF received this generous support from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), the United States Fund for UNICEF, the Humanitarian Aid Department of the European Commission (European Commission/ECHO), the Government of Canada, the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Government of Norway, the Royal Thai Government, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the World Health Organization (WHO), the French Committee for UNICEF, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance and UNICEF global humanitarian thematic funding. With these resources, UNICEF and partners continue to deliver much-needed services in nutrition, health, HIV/AIDS, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), education, child protection, gender-based violence in emergencies, social protection and cash-based programming, social behaviour change and accountability to affected populations. UNICEF also provided humanitarian leadership, cluster coordination and strengthened protection against sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA). As of reporting period, the funding gap stands out at 85 per cent, which is severely affecting UNICEF’s capacity to respond. Without these resources, targeted populations, especially children, who need basic social services will not be able to receive humanitarian assistance. UNICEF continues its efforts to mobilize resources and expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions to supporting the children of Myanmar. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs Intense fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and various ethnic armed organizations has been escalating in many parts of the country, particularly in northern Shan, Rakhine, Kayah, Sagaing and Chin. The situation remains volatile with continued fighting and large-scale civilian displacement, including amongst children. At the time of reporting, more than 500,000 people had been newly displaced within northern and southern Shan, Kayah, Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Mandalay, eastern Bago, Kayin, Mon and Tanintharyi since late October, with 283 people dead including children and 334 injured. Tension remains because of the fighting; humanitarian work has been suspended while the people who have been displaced, and who are in urgent need of humanitarian support, move from one township to another in search of safety. Movement restrictions have led to significant increases in commodity prices, as well as food and fuel shortages. Armed clashes across different townships have also disrupted the rice harvest. In northern Shan, armed clashes continued in several townships, resulting in 95 dead and 152 injured and an upsurge of internally displaced people to nearly 84,000 in 16 townships.2 Many families have fled to the China-Myanmar border in northern Shan, Pyin Oo Lwin township in Mandalay and Mansi township in Kachin. An increasing number of people are fleeing from Laukkaing, Chin Shwe Haw and Kunlong to places along the border with China and to Namtit, the principal town of the Wa Self-Administered Division of Shan State. There are 50,000 displaced people in Laukkaing with minimal humanitarian assistance. Lashio Airport remains closed and roads from Lashio to other conflict-affected areas are totally blocked. The road from Lashio to Mandalay and southern Shan is passable, though complicated by the presence of multiple checkpoints. Telecommunications and the Internet are accessible in Lashio but limited in other areas, particularly in the townships bordering China such as Monekoe, Kunlong and Namhkan. The State Administration Council (SAC) has imposed martial law in eight townships, including Lashio, Hseni, Kutkai, Namhkan, Muse, Laukkaing, Kunlong and Konekyan, which is exacerbating the challenges civilians already face. Armed hostilities have escalated in Rakhine state with intense clashes between the MAF and the Arakan Army, including in Pauktaw, northern townships in Rakhine, in central Rakhine and in Paletwa, southern Chin. There have reportedly been civilian casualties and displacements in several townships due to artillery shelling and gunfire. Main roads and waterways movement have been blocked, resulting in the suspension of humanitarian aid. Since 13 November, 69,000 people were newly displaced in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Myebon, Pauktaw, Ponnagyun, Rathedaung and Paletwa townships with at least 20 fatalities and more than 85 injuries3. The security situation in Pauktaw township remains alarming, with more than 20,000 people displaced since mid-November and with at least 12 fatalities.4 Hundreds of people remain trapped, unable to move to safer areas. In the southeast, fighting has progressively spread in Loikaw, Demoso, Hpruso in Kayah, at the Shan-Kayah border, Kayin, Mon states and eastern Bago, resulting in at least 78 civilian deaths and 55 injuries. More than 180,000 people have been displaced since the escalation began and are in need of urgent relief aid.5 Humanitarian access in Kayah remains extremely restricted due to the ongoing conflict, aerial bombardment and heightened scrutiny of partners at checkpoints. Attacks on civilians and displacement sites have also been reported in Loikaw township in Kayah, with the main airport closed and martial law in effect. An estimated 21,000 people have been displaced in Kayah state, with some 1,000 internally displaced persons in the eastern part of Loikaw urgently needing shelter, food, WASH services and health care.Fighting has been intensifying and more than 16,000 people from Kyarinnseikkyi in Kayin and Kyaikmaraw in Mon states are displaced and are in immediate need of humanitarian assistance. The main road between Kyaikmaraw-Chaung Nakwa and Mudon-Chaung Nakwa has been blocked. In Kachin State, intense fighting has been reported in the townships of Bhamo, Hpakant, Mansi, Momauk, Myitkyina, Shwegu, Tsawlaw and Waingmaw, leading to cutting-off of telephone and internet services. Myitkyina-Mandalay Road has been blocked intermittently since mid-November. In the northwest, armed clashes have affected 40 townships, including Falam and Matupi in Chin; Madaya in Mandalay; and Indaw, Kawlin, Pinlebu, Tamu and Tigyaing in Sagaing and in Magway region. Nearly 150,000 people have been newly displaced in the northwest and Mandalay since the fighting began to escalate in early November. Hostilities have killed 90 civilians, and injured 42, including children, and destroyed more than 100 houses. Humanitarian access remains restricted due to roadblocks and fighting; disruption of telecommunications and closure of Kale airport. About 5,000 internally displaced persons from Falam township have been displaced to the India-Myanmar border area in Chin. Of them, some 3,000 internally displaced persons have reportedly crossed the border to seek refuge in India, while the remainder is seeking safety in forest areas within Falam township..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-12-08
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-08
Grouping: Individual Documents
Format : pdf
Size: 457.23 KB
more
Description: "On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the United Nations reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities, particularly amidst the complex political and humanitarian landscape of Myanmar. In alignment with this year's theme, "United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities", we emphasize the need for concerted efforts to dismantle barriers of persons with disabilities and cultivate an inclusive society. In Myanmar, persons with disabilities, especially women and children, face significant challenges. The 2019 Myanmar Inter-Censal Survey reveals a disability prevalence rate of 12.8%, with states like Chin, Rakhine, and Ayeyawady reporting rates as high as 20.6%. Women and girls with disabilities experience compounded vulnerabilities, including restricted access to essential services and heightened risk of gender-based violence (GBV). The voices of the estimated 5.9 million people living with disabilities in Myanmar, representing about 13% of the country's population[1], are not mere statistics but vital narratives that demand attention and respect. Their unique perspectives and experiences enrich our society, and acknowledging their significance is a crucial step towards a truly equitable and inclusive community. Education and Healthcare: Cornerstones of Empowerment Education and health are the fundamental right and key drivers for empowerment. The United Nations, working with partners and communities, strives to create an inclusive educational environment, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education. In conflict situations, special attention is given to providing adapted learning environments that cater to diverse learning needs. The United Nations is committed to ensuring comprehensive, quality and accessible health services for all, including persons with disabilities. From maternal healthcare, sexual and reproductive health services to mental health and psychosocial support, our programs aim to address the specific needs of individuals including displaced people in conflict-affected areas, leaving no one behind. Economic and Social Inclusion: Promoting Equality The United Nations champions economic and social inclusion as a vital pathway to overall inclusivity. We advocate for economic opportunities that fully integrate persons with disabilities, ensuring their skills and contributions are acknowledged and valued in the workforce. Social inclusion is equally critical. Through community engagement and awareness initiatives, we work towards breaking down societal barriers, fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance that embraces persons with disabilities and their rights. Inclusive Responses in Conflict Situations: Prioritizing the most Vulnerable In conflict settings like Myanmar, children and women with disabilities face exacerbated vulnerabilities. Displacement heightens their risk and limits access to essential services. They face limited access to critical services, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), and an increased risk of gender-based violence (GBV). The United Nations is committed to prioritizing and strengthening protection mechanisms for these marginalized groups with compounded vulnerabilities. This involves ensuring their safety, access to life-saving services, and providing inclusive support systems. Strategic Approach: Collaboration & Partnership In collaboration with communities, civil society organizations, and organizations for persons with disabilities, we are mainstreaming disability inclusion in humanitarian responses, addressing the specific challenges faced by persons with disabilities in conflict settings. Our strategic and collective efforts are directed towards creating protective, supportive, and empowering environments across humanitarian-peacebuilding-development nexus. Aligned with Disability Inclusion Strategy[2], the United Nations is committed to ensuring inclusivity and leaving no one behind. United for Action As we commemorate this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us unite in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with, and by persons with disabilities. The United Nations remain committed to working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders to build a more inclusive and equitable society where the rights and contributions of every individual are recognized, respected and celebrated..."
Source/publisher: UN Country Team in Myanmar
2023-12-03
Date of entry/update: 2023-12-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "OVERVIEW Throughout the third quarter of 2023, Myanmar continued to grapple with a deepening humanitarian crisis marked by ongoing conflict, monsoon floods, and an alarming spread of explosive ordnance. The situation has led to unprecedented levels of displacement, extensive property damage, and the pervasive threat of landmines, especially in the Northwest and Southeast. By the end of the reporting period, close to 2 million people were internally displaced, facing elevated risks from high intensity conflict while navigating unfamiliar areas often contaminated by landmines and other explosive remnants of war. Displaced people continued to experience high to extreme levels of vulnerability with many living in informal sites without proper shelter or services. Many people are facing repeated displacement, depleting their resources with every movement. Pressure for the premature return of displaced people to their places of origin or third locations remains intense in some areas. In addition, severe monsoon weather exacerbated the situation, triggering floods mainly in the Northwest and Southeast, resulting in the destruction of civilian infrastructure and heightened needs. Notwithstanding the above-mentioned formidable challenges, both local and international humanitarian partners have demonstrated resilience and commitment to staying and delivering, scaling up and adapting their efforts to address deepening needs. Over the first 9 months of 2023, these efforts resulted at least 2.5 million people receiving some form of assistance – a testament to the dedication of the 226 operational partners in Myanmar (up from 164 at the mid-year point). However, this assistance is not as deep, sustained, or multi-sectoral as planned and represents only half of the 5 million people prioritized for assistance. Access and administrative restrictions continued to pose significant obstacles, causing delays and postponements in relief efforts, exacerbating the suffering of affected and displaced populations. Throughout the period under review, the Food Security Cluster continued to push forward with its response to needs in affected areas, accounting for the highest proportion of people reached (1.7 million), followed by the Protection Cluster (1.5 million) and Education Cluster (1.1 million). The figures are based on self-reporting by partners and, while there has been an improvement in the number of organizations sharing information, some responses are still likely to be missed..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-11-28
Date of entry/update: 2023-11-29
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.34 MB
more
Description: "KEY DISPLACEMENT FIGURES: 95,600 Estimated refugee outflows to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 1,124,800 Refugees and asylum-seekers from Myanmar in neighbouring countries as of 30 June 2023 1,670,200 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021 Source: UN in Myanmar 1,976,400 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 2 October 2023 Source: UN in Myanmar OVERVIEW In Myanmar, increased armed conflict and monsoon floods continue to trigger new displacement and exacerbate humanitarian needs. According to the UN, over 1.9 million people remain displaced within the country, with 47 townships in the North-West and the South-East still under martial law. Airstrikes, indiscriminate shelling, landmines, widespread arson, forced recruitment and raids on civilian targets, including homes, schools, health facilities, places of worship, as well as villages and internally displaced people (IDP) sites continued. Heavy rains and flooding temporarily displaced thousands, mostly in the North-West and the South-East. Prolonged humanitarian access constraints are impacting the provision of protection and life-saving services and straining the resilience of affected communities. In Thailand, according to the Royal Thai Government (RTG), as of 2 October, 7,259 refugees were sheltered in five Temporary Safety Areas (TSAs) across three districts (3,790 in Mae Sariang, 821 in Khun Yuam and 2,647 in Mueang) in Mae Hong Son Province. The conflict across the border in Kayah State reportedly subsided in early September and moved further away from the Thai-Myanmar border. In Mae Hong Son, the RTG recorded that a total of 2,673 individuals have returned to Myanmar since July 2023, including 2,130 in September. Further south, following fighting in the Tanintharyi region, the RTG reported 374 new arrivals between 20 and 22 September in Ranong Province who returned to Myanmar on 24 September. Humanitarian access to the TSAs remains limited and is granted on a case-by-case basis. In India, around 50,600 individuals* from Myanmar’s North-West region have sought protection in the country since February 2021. Of this number, 5,438 individuals are in Delhi and have registered with UNHCR. The number of reported new arrivals to Manipur remains minimal. Due to the changing weather and frequent rains, health problems relating to common colds and fever have been reported among arrivals in the districts of South Mizoram. Community-based organisations (CBOs) and NGOs are facilitating patient referrals to public primary health centres. According to CBOs and humanitarian organizations on the ground, medicine and food are urgent needs..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-10-31
Date of entry/update: 2023-11-16
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 9.81 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 8 November, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued end of November 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES A combination of active conflict, monsoon floods, and access barriers is worsening the humanitarian situation facing vulnerable communities nationwide. A new front of conflict has intensified in Northern Shan where fighting between Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) has displaced almost 50,000 people since 26 October. More than two million people are now internally displaced nationwide, many of them multiple times, eroding their coping capacity with each move. Relentless monsoon floods, especially in the Southeast, have caused severe economic and agricultural losses, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation as a result of conflict. Administrative and physical restrictions are amplifying suffering by delaying or forcing the cancellation of aid deliveries. Local and international humanitarian partners remain committed to staying and delivering, reaching at least 2.5 million people by end of September 2023. The combined US$887 million Humanitarian Response Plan and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeals remain critically underfunded, with only 28 per cent of the required funding received. Immediate additional financial assistance and the easing of access restrictions are imperative for the humanitarian community to address urgent needs. SITUATION OVERVIEW Active conflict, monsoon floods, underfunding and restrictions on humanitarian activities are contributing to deteriorating living situations for vulnerable communities, including internally displaced people. More than two million people remain internally displaced nationwide, with many having experienced repeated displacement. Displaced families are enduring precarious conditions while they are on the move, often seeking refuge in the jungle without proper shelter. Almost half of the country's population is estimated to be living in poverty and an estimated 12.9 million people are estimated to be severely or moderately food insecure. Affected people are facing heightened protection risks, particularly due to contamination by explosive ordnance, including landmines. This multifaceted crisis has not only deepened the needs of vulnerable groups but has also severely restricted their access to essential services and humanitarian assistance. Relief efforts of both local and international humanitarian organizations have been obstructed. In the face of these formidable obstacles, partners remain resolute in their commitment to assisting those in need. By the end of September, they had reached at least 2.5 million people, responding to escalating needs through diverse and flexible access approaches, including growing numbers of people in the Northwest and an expanded proportion of IDPs. However, despite escalating needs, the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) and the Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal remain severely underfunded, leaving thousands of desperate communities without the vital support they require..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-11-10
Date of entry/update: 2023-11-10
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 630.72 KB
more
Description: "Executive Summary The primary objective of this CAR Assessment on Sagaing Region is to support the Nexus Response Mechanism (NRM) and its partners in assessing current needs, priorities, and dynamics for the purposes of response planning. However, it is also designed as a public document, to be made available to the wider Myanmar aid community to better enhance understanding of local contexts, present community perceptions, and identify thematic and geographic dynamics and issues. It is not intended as a comprehensive or project-level needs assessment - it is instead intended as a broad and holistic assessment of the humanitarian, development, and political situation and operating environment in Sagaing Region. Prior to the February 2021 coup, the predominantly Bamar Sagaing Region was largely peaceful, and although it was underdeveloped and impoverished it was also highly agriculturally productive. Since the coup, Sagaing Region has become one of, if not the, epicentre of the Myanmar crisis. Sagaing Region’s population was heavily supportive of the National League for Democracy (NLD), and mass protests against the coup quickly turned to SAC crackdowns, and anti-coup armed group formation in the form of NUG-aligned People’s Defence Forces; indeed, Sagaing hosts more PDFs than any other region in the country. Now, the region is characterised by widespread violence, daily human rights abuses, regular village raids and burnings, and one of the largest ongoing displacement crises in the world. Responding to this context should be considered one of the paramount challenges facing the international Myanmar aid community; this is complicated by the fact that Sagaing region poses one of the most severe access challenges in Myanmar. Direct programming in Sagaing region is complicated not only by ongoing conflict conditions, but by political barriers imposed by the SAC and the fact that the large majority of pre-conflict CSOs in Sagaing Region have been dissolved. However, local responders do exist; albeit in a variety of forms. New CSOs have been established throughout Sagaing, with varying capacities, and largely funded by local and international private donations. New NUG-aligned revolutionary governance structures also exist, having largely supplanted SAC structures in many parts of the region, and vary widely in capacity, authority, and reach. New education and healthcare networks have formed, although they operate under considerable constraints and should by no means be considered sufficient for the needs facing the population. There are three key thematic considerations in Sagaing Region: › Sagaing region hosts the largest number of displaced people in Myanmar. Much of this displacement is temporary, with IDPs fleeing from their villages during conflict, raids, and crackdowns. Much of it is not; hundreds of villages have been fully or partially destroyed, and many displaced people will not return to their villages of origin for the foreseeable future. The displacement situation in Sagaing region is now a long term concern, with few prospects for durable solutions. › Local livelihoods have been devastated by the conflict; that said, there are still opportunities to contribute to local livelihoods provision, and doing so is essential. Agriculture is the cornerstone of Sagaing’s economy. Producers are under significant pressure due to skyrocketing costs and access restrictions, and many are wholly unable to farm their fields due to conflict and displacement. That said, Sagaing region is still producing agricultural goods, and markets do remain largely functional even in areas that have fallen out of the control of the SAC; indeed, some parts of Sagaing region are exporting crops to other parts of Myanmar. These functional local agriculture systems are critical to not only the population reliant on them for livelihoods, but the population of IDPs that are now reliant on locally produced agricultural goods. › SAC education and healthcare systems have largely collapsed in much of Sagaing Region. NUG-linked systems and local education and healthcare networks are functional in many locations, and are attempting to fill gaps; private clinics also remain functional in some locations. However, their capacity is limited by both funding and access constraints. Moreover, both alternative healthcare and education providers appear to be seen by the SAC as indistinguishable from local armed revolutionaries; as such, they are regularly targeted by security forces. These systems are under severe pressure and face numerous risks; however, they are also critical to meeting skyrocketing needs..."
Source/publisher: Center for Operational Analysis and Research
2023-11-01
Date of entry/update: 2023-11-01
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 4.04 MB
more
Description: "This Situation Update describes events occurring in Htaw Ta Htoo (Htantabin) Township, Taw Oo (Toungoo) District during the period between September and December 2022. This report outlines the struggles of villagers from five areas: Kaw Thay Der, Khoh Hkee, Maw Nay Pwa, Per Htee and Day Loh. The State Administration Council (SAC) arrested travellers, extorted their family members, and increased military movements causing major obstacles for children and teenagers to attend school. Villagers struggled due to a lack of enough income to cover their daily expenses. Many villagers also developed seasonal sicknesses that remained untreated.[1] Introduction This report describes the situation in five areas in Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District, between September and December 2022, namely Kaw Thay Der, Khoh Hkee, Maw Nay Pwa, Per Htee, and Day Loh areas. Villagers reported State Administration Council’s (SAC)[2] increased military activities and livelihood, education, and healthcare challenges. SAC military activities After the SAC seized power in Burma, various human rights violations occurred [again], such as fighting, threats, killing, looting, daily indiscriminate shelling, and arbitrary arrests at checkpoints. Additionally, the SAC arrested local villagers travelling and extorted their family members. This caused a great problem for villagers. The SAC indiscriminately fired artillery weapons and conducted air strikes into villages. [Moreover,] landmines were planted on public roads [leading to villagers’ plantations]. These placed villagers’ lives at high risk. An incident happened on December 15th 2022, in A--- village, Maw Nay Pwa area, Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District. At 1:00 pm, an air strike was conducted [by the SAC] unexpectedly while some villagers were gathering to greet and bless each other [for Christmas]. Children and elderly villagers had to [flee and] hide near the village. A--- village has 63 houses and a population of 439 [villagers]. Many villagers were displaced after the incident and were living far from their plantations. [During December 2022,] they had to travel long distances to purchase and trade food and to bring patients to the hospital. Due to SAC military operations, some villagers [displaced persons coming from other areas in Southeast Burma], who were also sheltering in villages [located in Maw Nay Pwa area], did not dare to return to their hometowns. In addition, securing livelihoods got much harder for villagers as they were not able to find jobs. Villagers [sheltering in the area] were able to eat only when someone [local villagers] provided them [with food]. Every month, local [Karen National Union (KNU)[3]] authorities arranged [to distribute] essential food supplies. Armed conflict and livelihood challenges Between September and December 2022, villagers from the [abovementioned] five areas in Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District, were struggling to secure their livelihoods. Some villagers live in hill areas, while others live in plain areas. Per Htee area is a plain area, while Khoh Hkee, Kaw Thay Der, Maw Nay Pwa and Day Loh areas are situated on the hills. [Villagers from hill areas] grow durian, betel nut, cardamon, and Kaffir lime [for their survival]. From September to December 2022, villagers worked [on their plantations] under danger [at risk to their lives, due to the SAC attacks]. [Due to the climate,] villagers did not harvest good [quality] fruit. Some villagers struggled [to have enough] rice, which is the main food [basis of their diet]. The price of rice also increased. [In addition, villagers had] difficulties in carrying rice [home from shops because the SAC set up check points] on the road. Following fighting [between the SAC and a resistance armed group] in [these] areas, some civilians were afraid [to stay in their villages], so they moved [fled to a new place]. Villagers had to work despite having unsafe [working] conditions. Villagers [felt] worried and burdened due to fighting, air strikes, and shelling. Some villagers encountered difficulties in carrying food as they lived far away from [food markets]. [Villagers had trouble with] purchasing and trading food. Dry food prices were rising, while fruit [that villagers harvested from their farms] could only be sold at low prices [in the market]. Villagers’ income and expenses were not a match. [Villagers had low-income streams and their expenses outweighed their income streams]. Various difficulties followed villagers in their [daily] livelihood activities. Villagers also worried about military operation activities. Farmers from Per Htee area complained about the unstable weather to grow beans and to farm. Farmers had no other income other than from farming. So, some farmers started working abroad [to increase their income]. Villagers [in the area] encountered threats, arbitrary arrests, and physical abuse committed by SAC soldiers while they travelled. Day labourers had to work under dangerous circumstances. Stealing also increased in the [local] area. The five areas all had different [high] prices [in markets]. Villagers had to pay [tax] in various ways [at SAC checkpoints]. Education challenges in Taw Oo District From September to December 2022, the KECD schools that operate in Htaw T'Htoo Township, Taw Oo District are Bu Hsa Hee School which located in Kho Hkee area, Ler Htaw Doh School, located in Maw Nay Pwa area and Htoh Lwee Wah School, located in Htee K'Waw. SAC military activities [in the Township] increased, becoming an obstacle for children and teenagers [to attend school]. Parents worried for children who lived far from the school because SAC soldiers fired [guns] indiscriminately [while the students travelled to schools], resulting in decreasing enrolment during this period. Students who lived in dormitories [at boarding schools], like Ler Htaw Doh school from Maw Nay Pwa area, had difficulties purchasing [a sufficient amount of] food because the price of food was high. As a consequence, some students stopped enrolling in school [,unable to afford the school fee]. Some locally established [community self-funded] schools had connections with the three high schools, [therefore, students could easily attend the high schools after completing their schooling at the locally established schools]. Teachers were teaching [in the community-run schools] at risk to their lives, as SAC soldiers [often] came into schools to patrol. SAC patrolling also brought out worries for teachers to continue teaching and became an obstacle for children and young teenagers to access education. Danger will [continue to] occur to villagers due to the conflict that takes place in the area. Many graduated students went to other countries to seek out job opportunities. Healthcare challenges in Taw Oo District As it was the winter season between September and December 2022, sickness increased, including flu, headaches, and [other] illnesses. When villagers from Khoh Hkee, Kaw Thay Der, and Maw Nay Pwa areas got sick, they were sent to a [nearby] hospital. SAC soldiers patrolling [on the roads] created difficulties for villagers to travel and posed a danger. Some [sick] children did not receive treatment. In addition, many [children] did not receive vaccinations [at all]. Pregnant women also did not receive proper healthcare. Similarly, in Per Htee area, a day labourer who got sick was unable to go for a check-up [at the hospital due to travel restrictions]. Some sick villagers were [only] lying in bed [at home] due to this strict situation. Villagers faced rising travel costs and restrictions, as well as the inability to make extra income. Parents needed money [additional financial support] to look after and take care of disabled children. Communities from the area of Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District did not receive healthcare [treatment]. Villagers from the five areas in Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District, expressed their desire for [KNU] authorities to notice their needs [support services such as safety, health care, livelihood, and education in response to SAC abuses]..."
Source/publisher: Karen Human Rights Group
2023-10-19
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-19
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 441.15 KB
more
Description: "Changes in context Almost three years since the February 2021 military takeover, the people of Myanmar remain exposed to an unrelenting political, human rights, economic and humanitarian crisis. The dire situation is posing grave protection risks for civilians, limiting access to vital services including health and education, and driving deep food insecurity. The deteriorating humanitarian situation continues to have severe consequences for millions of civilians who are bearing the brunt of widespread insecurity, escalating attacks and clashes, mass displacement, and limited access to critical services. Forced recruitment – including of children – is being increasingly reported. The use of heavy weapons, including air strikes and artillery fire, continues to claim lives and pose risks to the safety and security of civilians, while raids, random searches and arrests are of grave concern. The destruction of civilian properties, particularly homes, combined with the protracted fighting, is prolonging the displacement of IDPs and further degrading people’s already fragile living conditions. The ongoing conflict combined with spiraling inflation, is disrupting livelihood activities and depleting coping mechanisms, resulting in record humanitarian needs this year. In May, the situation was further exacerbated by extremely severe cyclone Mocha, the worst natural disaster on record for Myanmar in nearly a decade. The cyclone and the ensuing flooding devastated communities across Rakhine, the Northwest and Kachin with thousands of homes, productive assets, vast swathes of farmland, and critical infrastructure such as hospitals and schools destroyed or severely damaged. It added an additional 500,000 people to the humanitarian target for 2023 (now 5 million people) and worsened the needs of 1.1 million people already targeted within the HRP..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-10-17
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-17
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.52 MB
more
Description: "Highlights: Ongoing conflict continues to lead to displacement. Nearly two million people are internally displaced, of whom more than 1.6 million have been displaced since 2021. UNICEF supported for 26,264 children to access to formal and non-formal education, including early learning. UNICEF reached 297,943 affected people with access to clean water for drinking and domestic purposes by the end of September. The 85 per cent funding gap against the 2023 HAC requirement is severely affecting UNICEF’s capacity to respond to the multisectoral needs of targeted populations, especially children in Myanmar. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs As of September 2023, the total number of internally displaced persons has risen to more than 1.9 million out of a total population of 56 million. More than 1.6 million people have been displaced since February 2021, with more than 50 per cent of them, an estimated 820,800 people, from Sagaing region. Magway region has also been badly affected, with 218,900 people displaced and impacted by regular heavy fighting, air strikes and artillery shelling. An estimated 15,000 people have been displaced and are facing food shortages due to air strikes in Kamma sub township in Magway; humanitarian access is not possible due to security concerns and military operations. In many parts of the country, particularly the northwest, the movement of essential goods and humanitarian access is also still being hampered. The southeast has the second largest number of displaced populations after the northwest with 545,000 internally displaced persons2. Intensified armed conflicts continue in Myawaddy, Kyarinseikkyi, Kawkareik and Hpa-pun, with 8,300 people taking refuge at the Thailand-Myanmar border. In Kachin State, the intensification of armed conflicts and heavy military deployments is mainly in the south and southwest. Mines and unexploded ordnance also continue to pose a significant threat to children, the community, and humanitarian workers. In northern Shan, armed conflicts between the Myanmar Armed Forces and various armed groups in Nawnghkio, Kutkai, Muse and Namhkan townships are continuing to grow, causing people from Muse township to be displaced twice in September. Fighting in Kayah State increased, also resulting in increased displacement, with the number of internally displaced persons reaching 100,500 as of 18 September. Approximately 800 people, including those who had returned from the Thailand border in mid-September and who are living in the camps in Maesae township, Kayah State are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, which humanitarian access is not possible at the moment..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-10-16
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-16
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 494.31 KB
more
Description: "Most recently completed school year: June 2018 - February 2019 (180 days) WFP School Feeding Program Lead Agency: World Food Program, Ministry of Health and Sports, and Ministry of Education..."
Source/publisher: Global Child Nutrition Foundation
2023-09-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.49 MB
more
Description: "OVERVIEW In Myanmar, the situation has continued to deteriorate since February 2021. Over 1.9 million people remain displaced with 47 Townships in the North-West and the South-East still under martial law. Armed clashes, airstrikes, indiscriminate shelling, arson and destruction of civilian property and infrastructure are driving displacement and placing civilians at risk. In the South-East, some 80,000 people have been displaced by heavy monsoon rains and subsequent flooding, according to the latest estimates. Locations across the region have experienced temporary road disruptions due to rising water levels, hampering opportunities to deliver assistance. In Rakhine State, the unofficial ceasefire is fragile with reported increases in restrictions on the freedom of movement in specific townships as well as growing number of security checkpoints. Humanitarian access remains unpredictable, leaving displaced people – including cyclone-affected communities – with extremely limited access to basic needs and life-saving assistance. In Thailand, according to the Royal Thai Government, 9,418 refugees were sheltered in five Temporary Safety Areas (TSAs) across three districts (4,695 in Mae Sariang District, 832 in Khun Yuam District and 3,891 in Mueang District) in Mae Hong Son Province by end-August. Humanitarian access to the TSAs is still limited with UNHCR only being granted access twice to undertake protection assessments. However, in some instances, UNHCR and partners were able to directly distribute Core Relief Items (CRIs) to refugee committees in the TSAs or via the District Office. In India, 150 new arrivals fled from Myanmar’s North-West region to India in August 2023, according to estimates by community-based organizations (CBOs). The total number of arrivals from Myanmar to India follow-ing the events of 1 February 2021 is currently estimated at 54,960. As of 28 August, 5,466 individuals have approached UNHCR in New Delhi for registration since February 2021. Over 450 individuals reportedly returned to Myanmar from Manipur and Mizoram in August and fewer arrivals from Myanmar are expected due to the dynamic situation in Manipur. Food for new arrivals and host communities remains a major gap and the capacity of CBOs and the host community to address this is over-stretched. In remote locations where access to health-care is limited, CBOs are providing mobile healthcare facilities..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-10-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 9.13 MB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES Ongoing conflict and monsoon floods continue to cause new displacement, civilian casualties, and destruction of civilian properties, further worsening the already dire humanitarian situation in Myanmar. Nearly two million people are now internally displaced in precarious conditions and require lifesaving assistance. The threat to civilians from explosive ordnance is spreading with new data showing that for the first time, landmine casualties have now been recorded in every state and region, except Nay Pyi Taw. Local and international humanitarian partners continue to scale up and adapt in response to the deepening needs, reaching at least 1.8 million people during the first half of 2023. Access and administrative restrictions are causing prolonged delays or postponements of scheduled relief efforts, further compounding the suffering of affected and displaced communities. To date, the combined US$887 million Humanitarian Response Plan and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeals remain critically underfunded, with only 28 per cent of the required funding received. Provision of additional financial support and easing of access restrictions are imperative for the humanitarian community to address urgent needs. SITUATION OVERVIEW Nine months into 2023, humanitarian needs and protection risks have intensified throughout the country, driven by persistent conflict that has led to unprecedented levels of displacement, extensive property damage, and the expanding presence of landmines, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast. The United Nations Development Programme’s Myanmar Information Management Unit (MIMU), in collaboration with the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), has produced its annual map for 2023 of townships with suspected contamination by anti-personnel landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). Since 2021, for the first time, contamination by anti-personnel landmines has been reported in all states and regions except Nay Pyi Taw. Now, the latest data reveals that casualties due to landmines have occurred in every state and region of Myanmar, except Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon. Nearly two million people remain internally displaced across the country – many of them multiple times. They face increase risks from explosive ordnance while they are on the move or staying in unfamiliar areas. In addition, more than 63,000 people remain displaced across borders into neighbouring countries since the 2021 military takeover. Humanitarian partners are increasingly concerned about the SAC’s gradual implementation of the national IDP camp closure policy with many people being pushed to return to their places of origin or other locations even where this is against their wishes and is premature given the current security conditions. During the reporting period, approximately 100 out of 500 displaced families living in sites slated for camp closure in Kyauktaw township in Rakhine in 2023, had to return to their places of origin. The remaining IDPs face pressure to return by the end of the rainy season. Displaced families who were moved from the Kyauk Ta Lone IDP camp in Kyaukpyu township to a nearby relocation site, have been facing persistent flooding issues. In total, more than 50,000 IDPs nationwide are estimated to be at risk of premature return in 2023, particularly in Rakhine, Chin and Shan. They face potential protection concerns, lack of livelihood opportunities, absence of social services, and inadequate shelter in villages affected by conflict. Many IDPs are expressing fears about safety in their home villages in conflict areas where there is often ongoing fighting and significant explosive ordnance contamination. Sustained access to those who have been prematurely returned, reclassified or relocated by the State Administration Council under this policy remains crucial so that conditions and needs can be monitored, and assistance is not interrupted. Humanitarians continue to stress that any return, relocation, or reclassification of IDPs from displacement camps and sites must be safe, voluntary, informed and dignified, taking into account the wishes of affected people and the prospects for sustainable solutions that allow them to resume their normal lives. Severe monsoon weather conditions also persist, triggering floods in multiple areas, mostly in the Northwest and Southeast, resulting in the destruction of civilian infrastructure, displacement and new humanitarian needs. Thousands of people sought refuge in evacuation centres or safer areas on higher ground in August, with most of them returning to their homes in September. Nevertheless, many remain in need of support as they have lost their homes and belongings due to flooding. Local and international partners have extended immediate assistance wherever access is possible. Suffering is being exacerbated by significant access constraints, despite sporadic openings in some areas in recent months. Administrative and physical access limitations have intensified in the Southeast and Kachin, curtailing people's ability to access critical services and impeding the distribution of aid to affected communities. In the face of these formidable challenges, at least 1.8 million people received humanitarian assistance in the first half of the year2. However, the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal remain severely underfunded, with only a fraction (27 per cent) of the total requirement secured. This shortfall jeopardizes comprehensive assistance delivery and negatively impacts vulnerable communities. Urgent and substantial funding is essential to alleviate suffering and enhance the resilience of the affected communities amid this multifaceted crisis..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-10-02
Date of entry/update: 2023-10-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 828.02 KB
more
Sub-title: “ကြားကာလတွင် ကလေးသူငယ်များနှင့် ပညာသင်ယူသူများ စဉ်ဆက်မပြတ် ပညာသင်ယူခွင့်ရရှိရေး ဖေးမကူညီဆောင်ရွက်ပေးကြပါရန် ကျောင်းအဖွဲ့အစည်းများထံသို့ အကြံပြုတိုက်တွန်း ထုတ်ပြန်ကြေညာချက်”
Description: "ကြားကာလအတွင်းတွင် အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်ကောင်စီ၏ တရားမဝင်အာဏာသိမ်းမှုနှင့် ရက်စက် ကြမ်းကြုတ်မှုများ၏ နောက်ဆက်တွဲဆိုးကျိုးများကြောင့် ကလေးသူငယ်များနှင့် ပညာသင်ယူသူများသည် ရုပ်ပိုင်းဆိုင်ရာ၊ စိတ်ပိုင်းဆိုင်ရာနှင့် လိင်ပိုင်းဆိုင်ရာ အကြမ်းဖက်မှုများကို ခံစားနေရပြီး စဉ်ဆက်မပြတ် ပညာသင်ယူခွင့်များ ဆုံးရှုံးလျက်ရှိပါသည်။ သင်ယူသူတိုင်းသည် သာတူညီမျှ ပညာသင်ယူခွင့်ရရှိရန်နှင့် ပညာသင်ယူ ပြီးမြောက်ရန် တန်းတူအခွင့်အရေး ရှိကြပါသည်။ ကြားကာလတွင် ကလေးသူငယ်များနှင့် ပညာသင်ယူသူများ စဉ်ဆက်မပြတ် ပညာသင်ယူခွင့်ရရှိရေးနှင့် ကျောင်းသို့ပြန်လည်ဝင်ရောက်၍ ပညာဆက်လက်သင်ယူနိုင်ရေး အတွက် အကြောင်းအရာကဏ္ဍအလိုက်ဆောင်ရွက်ရာတွင် အောက်ပါအချက်အလက်များကို ထည့်သွင်းစဉ်းစား ၍ ဖေးမကူညီဆောင်ရွက်ပေးကြပါရန် အကြံပြုတိုက်တွန်း ထုတ်ပြန်ကြေညာအပ်ပါသည်။..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education, National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-09-15
Date of entry/update: 2023-09-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 211.01 KB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 25 August, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued in September 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES Ongoing conflict and natural disasters have resulted in new displacement, civilian casualties, and destruction of civilian properties, intensifying the already fragile humanitarian situation in Myanmar. More than 1.9 million people are now internally displaced in precarious conditions and requiring lifesaving assistance. Heavy monsoon rainfall has triggered flooding in Rakhine and in the Southeast where more than 80,000 people have been affected since early August. Transportation and distribution plans for the cyclone response in Rakhine have been approved and some relief items have been distributed. However, the overall humanitarian needs of cyclone-affected communities remain high and more assistance is still needed. Humanitarian access restrictions have increased, notably in the Southeast and Kachin, further hindering timely and efficient aid delivery to affected and displaced communities. Easing of access restrictions and provision of financial support are imperative for the humanitarian community to address urgent needs. Eight months into 2023, the combined US$887 million Humanitarian Response Plan and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeals remain critically underfunded, with only 25 per cent of the required funding received. The Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, visited Myanmar from 14 to 17 August to raise awareness of the situation in Myanmar and advocate for both expanded space for humanitarian operations and the removal of bureaucratic obstacles. KEY FIGURES 1.9M total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 1.6M people currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 306K people who remain internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 75K civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021 SITUATION OVERVIEW Natural disasters have continued to impact Myanmar adding another challenge on top of active conflict, leading to an increase in displacement and additional hardship for affected people. Simultaneously, bureaucratic, and physical barriers continue to hinder humanitarian partners' access to those in need, often posing safety and security risks for frontline aid workers. In Rakhine, regular humanitarian programming continues but the specific humanitarian cyclone response remains limited in scope. In August, the de facto authorities approved the transportation and distribution plans for cyclone-related assistance to Rakhine that UN agencies and INGOs re-submitted in early July for a second time. Initial distributions of existing relief items in Sittwe to cyclone-affected communities have been approved and food has been distributed to 12 villages during the reporting period with more expected to follow. As part of ongoing advocacy at all levels for greater humanitarian access in conflict-affected areas, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Martin Griffiths, visited Myanmar from 14 to 17 August and met with various stakeholders in Nay Pyi Taw. During his mission, he also visited Rakhine and met with Rakhine and Rohingya communities affected by both conflict and disaster, emphasizing the importance of placing people at the center of humanitarian action and urging the removal of all access restrictions for humanitarian partners. Despite the ongoing operational challenges and financial limitations, Myanmar's humanitarian community remains steadfast in its commitment to stay and deliver aid based on need. The 2023 Mid-Year HRP Dashboard (Jan-Jun 2023) highlights that more than 1.8 million people have been reached with humanitarian assistance in the first half of the year. However, the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal remain severely underfunded at only 25 percent of the total requirement, undermining the provision of comprehensive assistance and adversely impacting vulnerable communities. Urgent and more generous funding is pivotal to alleviate suffering and enhance resilience of the people in the face of this multidimensional crisis..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-09-08
Date of entry/update: 2023-09-08
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 579.77 KB
more
Description: "With Myanmar’s military fighting on other fronts, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army is firming up its foothold in the country’s north. Clashes with other ethnic armed groups are possible. The Ta’ang group should focus on improving governance in its areas, in conjunction with civil society. What’s new? The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has used Myanmar’s post-2021 coup crisis to expand its territory in northern Shan State, recruit fighters and strengthen its parallel administration. Although it has quietly supported anti-coup resistance forces, it has clashed with the military only rarely and has met with regime representatives. Why does it matter? The TNLA’s expansion has created tensions with other ethnic armed groups and non-Ta’ang communities in northern Shan State. The group’s ambiguous political positioning since the coup reflects the complex environment in which ethnic armed groups operate. It also helps explain why building a countrywide anti-regime alliance has proven so difficult. What should be done? The TNLA, which seeks greater autonomy, should focus on caring for the people under its control through improved self-administration rather than expanding its territory further. It should also reform its recruitment practices. Foreign donors should increase funding for local civil society organisations delivering services in Shan State. I. Overview Since the February 2021 coup in Myanmar, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) – one of the country’s most powerful ethnic armed groups – has strengthened its control of a swathe of territory in northern Shan State. In conjunction with Ta’ang civil society organisations, it is working to maintain the rule of law, deliver health and education services, and improve the local economy. Unlike some of Myanmar’s other ethnic armed groups, it has mostly avoided confronting the military since the coup. Instead, it has provided only covert support to anti-junta forces and engaged indirectly with new opposition political institutions. The group’s ambiguous post-coup positioning reflects its long-term ambition to achieve autonomy. As it assumes the role of a quasi-state, the TNLA should focus on supporting the population in its areas and avoiding military adventurism that might provoke conflict with other ethnic armed groups or the military; it should also cease coerced and underage recruitment for its armed forces. Outside actors should support the provision of services in Shan State, working through local civil society. Since its inception in 2009, the TNLA has slowly acquired more strength and territory. It garnered popular supportamong the Ta’ang by pushing a strict anti-drug use policy and bringing together disparate communities under a common ethnic identity. Other ethnic armed groups in Myanmar – including the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) and, more recently, the United Wa State Army (UWSA), which is the largest such group and controls an autonomous region in Shan State – provided the training and weapons the TNLA needed to build up its armed forces. Over the past decade, it gradually expanded its geographical footprint. For much of that time, it regularly clashed with the Myanmar military and its allied militias, as well as the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), a rival ethnic armed group. The 2021 coup has further strengthened the TNLA’s hand. Busy fighting on other fronts, the Myanmar military has largely withdrawn from the northern Shan State battlefield, enabling the group and its allies to gain territory and expel the RCSS from the area. The TNLA, which counts an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 personnel, can now project power into nearby towns. The military’s withdrawal has also enabled the TNLA to assert authority in places it controls and govern in a way that advances its goal of building a robust, autonomous Ta’ang nation. Working in partnership with Ta’ang civil society organisations, it has followed the lead of larger armed groups and created an incipient “Ta’ang State”, complete with courts, schools and health facilities. This quasi-state is very much a work in progress, but since the coup the group and its civil society partners, many of which are women-led, have moved well down the road toward creating a de facto autonomous governing body. To focus on consolidating control, the TNLA has staked out a middle ground in Myanmar’s post-coup conflict. It now tries to steer clear of clashes with the military. Although the Ta’ang group has been an important source of training and weapons for new forces resisting the junta, it has avoided publicising this support. It has also kept informal its engagement with the National Unity Government (NUG) – a parallel administration set up by lawmakers ousted by the coup – instead allowing Ta’ang civil society groups and politicians to lead the way in building these relationships. The TNLA has also maintained contact with the junta. Along with two other ethnic armed groups, it recently had a rare meeting with regime negotiators tasked with striking ceasefire deals. It did so under pressure from Beijing. China has longstanding ties to Myanmar, with which it shares a 2,160km border, and since the late 1980s has invested heavily in its neighbour, in part through its Belt and Road Initiative. In order to protect its economic interests, China is particularly keen to keep the southern border it shares with Shan State stable. The TNLA’s positioning helps explain why building an anti-military coalition in Myanmar has proven so difficult. Most ethnic armed groups are hostile to the military regime, but they also see little prospect of it collapsing, making them reluctant to cement alliances with the NUG or armed resistance. Chinese pressures further push these groups away from overt confrontation. At the same time, the TNLA and other ethnic armed groups are influenced by their communities, civil society organisations, and the broader domestic and even international public. They thus have to balance various demands when determining the best pathway to achieving their objectives – in the TNLA’s case, a de facto autonomous Ta’ang State. The group’s expansion in recent years also reflects a broader fragmentation within Myanmar’s national borders that has accelerated since the 2021 coup. With the central administration unable to operate normally, non-state armed groups such as the TNLA or civil society organisations working in the areas they control are the purveyors of public services to millions of people. Together, the TNLA and Ta’ang civil society organisations run schools, provide health care, collect taxes and administer justice systems. The TNLA’s rise is not without risk to it or the people under its control. Further expansion could provoke conflict with either other ethnic armed groups or the military. Even absent TNLA growth, the military may at some point seek to recapture some of the lost territory. Non-Ta’ang people in Shan State feel threatened by the TNLA’s gathering might, fanning inter-communal tensions. The high costs associated with maintaining a large armed force and system of governance also mean that the TNLA runs the risk of overreach. The need to raise revenue already appears to be pushing it into competition with other ethnic armed groups and pro-military militias, which could lead to sharpening hostilities. Given the reality of state fragmentation in Myanmar, the people of northern Shan State will be best served through a combined effort by the TNLA, civil society and donors to manage conflict risk, improve governance and deliver services. The TNLA should refrain from further expansion, which would risk renewed conflict, and take greater care to avoid provoking other ethnic minorities living in its territory. It should reform its recruitment policies, including by ending conscription – often enforced through violence or threats thereof – and cracking down on recruitment of child soldiers. Meanwhile, donors should expand support for civil society organisations in northern Shan State, including not only Ta’ang groups but also those run by other ethnic minorities. Strengthening civil society would not only allow these groups to provide more services to civilians, but it would also afford them a degree of moderating influence over the leadership of armed groups, particularly when it comes to maintaining peaceful inter-ethnic relations in this corner of war-torn Myanmar..."
Source/publisher: International Crisis Group (Belgium)
2023-09-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-09-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf pdf
Size: 3.34 MB 499.8 KB
more
Description: "RE: ASEAN members and their dialogue partners are urged to end Burma/Myanmar military’s access to jet fuel and weapons ahead of ASEAN summit Your excellencies, We, the undersigned 149 organizations, are writing to urge prompt, coordinated actions of governments of ASEAN and ASEAN dialogue partners to bring an end to the ongoing atrocities perpetrated daily by the Burmese military. It has been more than two years since the illegal military coup deposed Burma’s democratically-elected leaders. In that time, ASEAN and its partner governments, including the EU, US, Japan, South Korea and Australia, have failed to take sufficient actions to hold the military to account, implement the “Five Point Consensus,” and end the violence. From September 5-7, your government will participate in the ASEAN Summit in Jakarta. We urge you to work with all government representatives present at the Summit to deliver the following: 1. A joint call from ASEAN and ASEAN dialogue partners calling for the United Nations Security Council to demonstrate their support of ASEAN, the Five-Point Consensus, and the people of Burma by keeping the situation in Burma on the agenda and introducing resolution that calls for regular meetings and an arms embargo, including a ban on aviation fuel. 2. A joint release from ASEAN governments announcing: a commitment to preventing the junta from procuring aviation fuel. This includes: Classifying aviation fuel as a “dual-use technology” under applicable local laws; Banning the shipment or transshipment of aviation fuel through ports in ASEAN member states; Banning companies located in ASEAN member-states from selling or transporting aviation fuel to any entity in Myanmar; and Banning the provision of financial services, such as maritime shipping insurance, to companies or vessels transporting aviation fuel to Burma. 3. A joint commitment from ASEAN members to further restrict the military junta’s access to funding and the international banking system. U.S. sanctions on the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank have given ASEAN members legal cover to prevent their banks from transmitting money to the junta. ASEAN members should work with their domestic monetary authorities to ensure that domiciled banks are not making or processing payments to the junta and its affiliated entities. The junta is using aerial attacks to target civilian-populated areas, including IDPs hiding places, and initiate conflict with local ethnic groups. In the first four months of 2023, there were 442 airstrikes. This nearly eclipses the total number of airstrikes conducted in all of 2022, which was 449. On July 27, two schools in Karenni State were damaged due to airstrikes, with many villagers emphasizing the intentionality behind the attacks: “When they [the military] can’t establish the educational and administrative systems they want, they resort to attacking schools, hindering Karenni children from learning.” Children from Karen state have been forced to seek refuge in the seven refugee camps that line the Thai-Burma border after military attacks increased the number of school-aged refugees from 16,000 to 21,000 in just one year. In Kachin state, military planes drop bombs in villages, killing civilians. Civilians in Shan state were killed after the military bombed villages believed to be hiding local soldiers, an accusation later disproved. In late July, over 3,000 civilians were forcibly displaced from central Burma’s Sagaing region over the span of five days of military fighting. As the civilian death toll rises and the number of refugees and internally displaced peoples increases, it is impossible to deny that access to jet fuel is critical to support the military’s campaign of violence. Yet governments have failed to act and companies continue to facilitate the military’s access to jet fuel. In November 2022, Amnesty International’s report, Deadly Cargo, linked jet fuel access to increasing human rights abuses; but only months later, Global Witness and Amnesty International revealed the names of several companies, including, but not limited to, Thai, Indian, and Japanese, that were still engaging in the shipment of jet fuel to the Burmese junta in March 2023. The engagement of these companies makes them complicit in the human rights abuses committed by the Burmese junta via aerial attacks throughout the country. The United States and United Kingdom have both placed sanctions on Burmese and Singaporean entities accused of facilitating the trade in aviation fuel, while the U.S. has issued a regulatory determination threatening further sanctions against companies involved in the sale of aviation fuel into Burma. We strongly encourage ASEAN member-states to support these sanctions and work with international partners to end the trade of aviation fuel in Burma. ASEAN, the UN, and other governments have failed the people of Burma for far too long. The country is in desperate need of support beyond arbitrary condemnations. We urge you to stand on the right side of history and act with urgency to hold the military accountable for its crimes and bring Burma the peace and justice the people of Burma deserve. Sincerely, Signed by: Ah Nah Podcast – Conversations with Myanmar, Ireland ALTSEAN-Burma, Thailand American Baptist Churches, KS, USA American Baptist Churches, OH, USA Arizona Kachin Community, AZ, USA Australian Karen Organisation Inc Bangladesh Rohingya Student Union (BRSU) Better Burma, CA, USA Burma Action Ireland Burma Advocacy Group, USA Burma Campaign UK Burma Canadian Association of Ontario Burma Task Force, IL, USA Burmese American Community Institute, IN, USA Burmese Women’s Union (BWU), Thailand California Kachin Community, CA, USA Calvary Burmese Church, Washington, DC Campaign for a New Myanmar, Washington, DC, USA Chin Association of Maryland, Inc. MD, USA Chin Baptist Association, MD, USA Community Rebuilding Centre, Bangladesh Coordination Team for Emergency Relief (Karenni), Burma Crane Center for Prevention of Mass Atrocities, CA, USA CRPH Funding Ireland Dallas Kachin Community, TX, USA DEEKU-Karenni Community of Amarillo, TX, USA Det Norsk Baptistsamfunn, Norway DFW Kachin Baptist Church, TX EarthRights International, Washington, DC, USA European Karen Network, Norway Florida Kachin Community, FL, USA Free Burma Campaign South Africa Georgia Kachin Community, GA, USA Give A Helping Hand, Norway Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, NY, USA Houston Kachin Community, TX, USA Human Rights Foundation of Monland, Burma Humanity Institute, Burma Institute for Asian Democracy, Washington, DC. USA International Campaign for the Rohingya, Washington, DC, USA International Karen Organization, PA, USA Iowa Kachin Community, IA, USA Jewish World Watch, CA, USA Justice For All, Washington, DC. USA K’Nyaw Baptist Church, MN Kachin American Community (Portland – Vancouver) Kachin Baptist Churches, MD, USA Kachin Community of Indiana, IN, USA Kachin Community of USA Kachin Contextual Analysis Team, Burma Kachin refugee committee, Malaysia Kachin Women’s Association Thailand Kansas Karenni community, KS, USA Karen American Association of Wisconsin, WI, USA Karen Association of Huron, SD, USA Karen Baptist Church, CO Karen Community of Canada Karen Community in Norway Karen Community of Akron, OH, USA Karen Community of Georgia, GA, USA Karen Community of Greensboro, NC, USA Karen Community of Iowa, IA, USA Karen Community of Kansas City, KS & MO, USA Karen Community of Minnesota, MN, USA Karen Human Rights Group, Burma Karen Organization of Illinois, IL, USA Karen Peace Support Network, Thailand Karen Women’s Organization (KWO), Thailand Karen Youth Education Pathways, Washington, DC, USA Karen Youth Network, Burma Karenni Community of Arizona, AZ, USA Karenni Community of Arkensas, AK, USA Karenni Community of Austin, TX, USA Karenni Community of Bowling Green, KY, USA Karenni Community of Buffalo, NY, USA Karenni Community of Chicago, IL, USA Karenni Community of Colorado, CO, USA Karenni Community of Dallas, TX, USA Karenni Community of Des Moines, IA, USA Karenni Community of Florida, FL, USA Karenni Community of Fort Worth, TX, USA Karenni Community of Georgia, GA, USA Karenni Community of Houston, TX, USA Karenni Community of Idaho, ID, USA Karenni Community of Indianapolis, IN, USA Karenni Community of Massachusetts, MA, USA Karenni Community of Michigan, MI, USA Karenni community of Minnesota, MN, USA Karenni Community of Missouri, MO, USA Karenni Community of North Carolina, NC, USA Karenni Community of Portland, OR, USA Karenni Community of Rockford, IL, USA Karenni Community of San Antonio, TX, USA Karenni Community of Sioux Falls, SD, USA Karenni Community of Utah, UT, USA Karenni Community of Utica, NY, USA Karenni Community of Washington, WA, USA Karenni Community of Wisconsin, WI, USA Karenni Human Rights Group, Burma Karenni National Women’s Organization (KNWO), Thailand Karenni Society of Omaha, NE, USA Karenni-American Association, USA, USA Kayan Women’s Organization (KyWO), Burma Kentucky Kachin Community, KY, USA Kuki Women’s Human Rights Organization (KWHRO), Burma L’chaim! Jews Against the Death Penalty Lahu Women’s Organization (LWO) Louisiana Kachin Community, LA, USA Maryland Kachin Community, MD, USA Michigan Kachin Community, MI, USA Milwaukee Myanmar Christian Church, WI, USA Mingalarama Wiharra Monastery, MD, USA Minnesota Kachin Community, MN, USA Myanmar Campaign Network, Australia Myanmar Christian Church of Metro Chicago, IL, USA Never Again Coalition, OR, USA New York Kachin Community, NY, USA No Business With Genocide, Washington, DC, USA North Carolina Kachin Community, NA, USA NUG and CRPH Supporters Ireland Omaha Kachin Community, NE, USA Overseas Burmese Christian Fellowship, MA Pa-O Women’s Union (PWU), Burma Peace and Justice Committee, KY, USA Pennsylvania Kachin Community, PA, USA Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association Rohingya Action Ireland Rohingya Students Network, Bangladesh Shan Women’s Action Network (SWAN), Thailand South Carolina Kachin Community, SC, USA Ta’ang Women’s Organization (TWO), Burma Tavoy Women’s Union (TWU) Temple Beth Tikvah, Roswell, GA Temple Habonim, Barrington, RI Tennessee Kachin Community, TN, USA U.S. Campaign for Burma, Washington, DC, USA Unitarian Universalist Association, NY, USA Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, MA, USA Unitarian Universalist Women’s Federation, WI, USA United States Chin Coalition, IN, USA UU College of Social Justice, MA, USA UU Mass Action, MA, USA UU Society of Oneonta NY, USA Virginia Kachin Community, VA, USA Washington Kachin Community, WA, USA West Virginia Kachin Community, WV, USA Women for Justice (WJ), Burma Women’s League of Burma, Thailand Women’s Peace Network, Washington, DC. USA..."
Source/publisher: Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, Kachin Women's Association Thailand, Karen Human Rights Group, Shan Women's Action Network
2023-08-31
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-31
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "OVERVIEW The humanitarian crisis in Myanmar deteriorated significantly throughout the first half of 2023. Escalating clashes and attacks have had dire consequences for millions of civilians who are enduring widespread insecurity and aerial bombardment, mass displacement, and limited access to critical services, including health. In May, the situation was further exacerbated by extremely severe cyclone Mocha, the worst natural disaster in Myanmar in over a decade. The cyclone devastated communities across Rakhine, the Northwest and Kachin with thousands of homes, productive assets, vast swathes of farmland, and critical infrastructure such as hospitals and schools destroyed or severely damaged. Cyclone Mocha rolled back some limited gains of recent years especially around agriculture and livelihoods, and added an additional 500,000 people to the humanitarian target for 2023 (now 5 million people). The first half of 2023 also saw surging inflation nationwide that further disrupted livelihood activities and depleted coping capacity, leaving more people than ever needing humanitarian assistance. Between January and June 2023 alone, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) climbed to nearly 1.9 million (as of end of June) up from just over 1.5 million in late December 2022, increasing needs and further stretching already lean humanitarian resources. The spike in displacement aligns with a surge in conflict during the first half of the year, with the Northwest and Southeast being most affected. Humanitarian operations and personnel were also targeted or heavily affected by conflict, bureaucratic impediments and restrictions. Between January and June, humanitarian organizations reported about 630 access incidents across the country (60 per cent of which occurred in Q2), impeding the delivery of vital assistance and services to affected people particularly in Rakhine, the Northwest and Southeast regions. Despite multiple challenges in the operating context and severe underfunding, humanitarian partners have continued to rapidly scale up in response to the deepening needs, reaching at least 1.8 million people during the first half of 2023. This represents 36 per cent of the 5 million people targeted for assistance through the combined 2023 HRP and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal. However, this assistance is not as deep, sustained, or multi-sectoral as planned due to access blockages and this is a major impediment to addressing needs. The Food Security Cluster accounts for the highest proportion of the reported mid-year result (about 1.2 million) followed by the Protection (more than 929,000) and WASH Clusters (around 637,000). These figures are based on self-reporting by partners and the number of operational partners, particularly local organizations who are reporting, has now jumped to 208 (up from 156 in Q1). Despite this improvement, some response efforts are still likely to be missed in these calculations. The coverage of the response reflects the prioritization of the most vulnerable groups, particularly IDPs and ‘non-displaced stateless people’, with partners collectively reaching 42 per cent of the targets for these population groups. The reach for the ‘other crisis-affected people’ and ‘returned, resettled, and locally integrated IDPs’ is much lower at 33 per cent and 10 per cent respectively. Despite the multiple constraints and impediments, partners have prioritized and marginally scaled up responses across some of the areas of highest needs in Rakhine, the Southeast (Kayah, Kayin), and the Northwest (Chin, Magway, Sagaing), and northern Shan during the first half of the year. The 2023 HRP remains drastically underfunded, with only 20 per cent of the requirements received by the end of June, according to FTS (22 per cent funded as of August). This dire funding situation is despite the deepening needs, the surge in displacement, cyclone Mocha impacts, and soaring inflation that have further stretched the grossly insufficient resources across clusters. Heading into the second half of the year, partners will be forced to further reduce coverage and packages of assistance if immediate and sufficient funding is not received, leaving large numbers of vulnerable households without the critical services and support they need to survive..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-08-31
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-31
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 992.73 KB
more
Description: "Seventy-eighth session Item 73 (c) of the provisional agenda* Promotion and protection of human rights: human rights situations and reports of special rapporteurs and representatives Summary The present report is submitted pursuant to General Assembly resolution 77/227 and covers the period from 15 August 2022 to 14 August 2023. In addition to the human rights situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities, the report focuses on the continued deterioration of the political, humanitarian and security situation in Myanmar following the military takeover in February 2021, including further restrictions of human rights and the worsening of socioeconomic conditions. There is an urgent need for safe, full and unhindered humanitarian access to vulnerable communities in line with international principles. That urgency has been compounded by the devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha in May 2023. The report highlights the continued brutal repression by the military. Thousands have been killed since February 2021, including children, with reports of increased sexual and gender-based violence committed by the military while civic space continues to shrink. The multifaceted crisis in Myanmar continues to yield serious regional implications, including displacement and the proliferation of illicit activities. Since February 2021, more than 64,000 people have fled and remain outside of Myanmar. More than 1.6 million people have been internally displaced. Rohingya people remained displaced domestically and abroad, including nearly 1 million Rohingya in Bangladesh. While peaceful opposition to the military persisted, armed resistance expanded, adding to an already precarious situation. There has been no meaningful action by the military to address the root causes that led to the forced displacement of the Rohingya population. The United Nations will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and to support their democratic aspirations for an inclusive, peaceful and just society and the protection of all communities, including the Rohingya. As part of this effort, the Organization will seek to further strengthen cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations towards de-escalating the violence and reaching a sustainable political solution in line with relevant General Assembly resolutions and Security Council resolution 2669 (2022). I. Introduction 1. The present report is submitted pursuant to General Assembly resolution 77/227, in which the Assembly requested the Secretary-General to continue to provide his good offices and pursue discussions relating to Myanmar, involving all relevant stakeholders, and to offer assistance to Myanmar, and to submit a report to the General Assembly on all relevant issues addressed in the resolution at its seventy-eighth session. The present report covers the period from 15 August 2022 to 14 August 2023. 2. During the reporting period, the political, security, humanitarian and human rights situation in Myanmar deteriorated further, and socioeconomic conditions worsened, affecting regional stability, in particular in terms of increased illicit activities. Armed conflict and violence continued to intensify, displacing communities across Myanmar, with many seeking asylum across borders. The devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha in May 2023 and access constraints compounded multiple vulnerabilities in conflict-affected areas. 3. Myanmar remains extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, including cyclones, flooding, extreme temperatures and droughts, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable. The collapse of many rule of law and regulatory safeguards since the military takeover has also resulted in the illegal exploitation of natural resources. 4. The Secretary-General and his Special Envoy continued to condemn all forms of violence and reiterated calls for the military to respect the will of the people, to refrain from repression and to act in the greater interest of peace and stability in Myanmar and the region. In a statement ahead of 1 February 2023, which marked two years since the military takeover, the Secretary-General expressed his ongoing solidarity with the people of Myanmar in support of their democratic aspirations for an inclusive, peaceful and just society and the protection of all communities, including the Rohingya. He called for the release of all those arbitrarily detained, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. 5. The Secretary-General has called for neighbouring countries and other Member States to leverage their influence over the military leadership. The Secretary-General drew global attention to Myanmar as the multifaceted crisis continued to unfold, including through his strong condemnation of large-scale aerial attacks by the military and his expression of deep concern about the ongoing political repression. 6. On 21 December 2022, the Security Council adopted resolution 2669 (2022), in which it demanded an immediate end to all forms of violence throughout the country and urged restraint and de-escalation of tensions, while acknowledging the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including its five -point consensus on Myanmar. The Council further urged the military to immediately release all arbitrarily detained prisoners, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, and reiterated its call to uphold democratic institutions and processes and to pursue constructive dialogue and reconciliation in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar. The Council also requested the Secretary-General, in coordination with the ASEAN Special Envoy, to report orally to the Council by 15 March 2023. The Council convened a private meeting on 13 March 2023 and heard briefings from the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, in her capacity as the representative of the ASEAN Chair, and from the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General. The Council also met twice in closed consultations to consider the situation in Myanmar during the reporting period. 8. On 15 December 2022, the annual General Assembly adopted by consensus resolution 77/227 on the situation of human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. 9. The Special Envoy briefed the General Assembly on 25 October 2022 and 16 March 2023, and called for regional unity and international coherence in support of a process led by Myanmar to end the violence and return to the path of democracy. The Special Envoy also emphasized the need for the delivery of humanitarian assistance through all available channels and the protection of civilians. 10. The Special Envoy visited Myanmar from 16 to 18 August 2022 and met with the Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar armed forces, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, to press for full and unimpeded humanitarian access and stress that progress depended on an end to the violence and visible and significant improvements in the lives of the people of Myanmar. Following the execution of pro-democracy activists in late July 2022, which the Secretary-General strongly condemned, the Special Envoy urged the Senior General to impose a moratorium on executions. She also reiterated the call of the Secretary-General for the release of all political prisoners. The Special Envoy further highlighted the responsibility of Myanmar to create conditions conducive to the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of refugees. Her visit was preceded by consultations with a range of stakeholders, including the National Unity Government and key ethnic armed organizations. 11. The Special Envoy visited Bangladesh from 22 to 26 August 2022 to engage with refugees in Cox’s Bazar and highlight the need for greater responsibility-sharing, while recognizing the continued generosity of that country. On 21 and 22 February 2023, the Special Envoy visited Saudi Arabia to discuss potential cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on educational opportunities for Rohingya refugees. The Special Envoy also visited Indonesia from 4 to 6 April to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN Chair and the ASEAN Special Envoy on Myanmar. She visited China and India from 1 to 3 May and on 9 and 10 May, respectively, to call for strengthened regional unity to respond to the crisis in Myanmar. 12. The Secretary-General and his Special Envoy repeatedly cautioned against proceeding with any electoral process without a genuine, inclusive political dial ogue and conditions that permitted citizens to freely exercise their political rights without fear or intimidation, as this risked further exacerbating violence and instability. 13. On 11 November 2022, ASEAN leaders attending the fortieth and forty-first ASEAN Summits reaffirmed the need to implement the five-point consensus “in its entirety” and requested ASEAN foreign ministers to develop “an implementation plan that outlines concrete, practical and measurable indicators with a specific timeline”. In his address to ASEAN leaders, the Secretary-General reiterated his support for ASEAN playing a vital role in contributing to multilateral solutions to respond to the political, security, human rights and humanitarian situation in Myanmar. 14. ASEAN leaders met again from 9 to 11 May 2023 and, in a statement by the Chair, reiterated their “unified position” that the ASEAN five-point consensus remained their “main reference” in addressing developments in Myanmar, and supported the Chair’s continued engagement with all stakeholders in Myanmar to find a peaceful and durable solution. In a statement following their meeting of 11 and 12 July 2023, ASEAN foreign ministers “urged all parties involved to take concrete action to immediately halt indiscriminate violence, denounce any escalation, and create a conducive environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and inclusive national dialogue”. 15. The United Nations is committed to staying in Myanmar and addressing the multiple vulnerabilities arising from the actions of the military since February 2021. Humanitarian and community resilience needs increased significantly during the reporting period, while the United Nations and other operational partners faced greater constraints and risks in delivering assistance. Despite these factors, the United Nations continued to deliver support to the people of Myanmar and scaled up the response, reaching 4.4 million people in 2022 and a further 1.8 million people in the first six months of 2023. The State Administration Council continued to limit access to affected populations in many parts of the country, including in the wake of Cyclone Mocha, which caused significant damage in many parts of Myanmar. In May, unidentified assailants attacked an ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management convoy under military escort, underscoring the challenges in delivering assistance in a complex security environment. Since February 2021, the military has enacted numerous measures, including an extension of the state of emergency and the introduction of martial law in 47 townships as of the end of February 2023, alongside Internet shutdowns in over 20 townships, eroding civic space and restricting the exercise of human rights, such as the rights to freedom of opinion and expression and freedom of peaceful assembly and association. During the reporting period, the introduction of an organization registration law established new, cumbersome administrative steps to register and re-register civil society organizations and international non-governmental organizations, and imposed severe criminal penalties for non-compliance, including prison sentences. 16. Elections initiated by the State Administration Council appear unlikely to occur this year. The military had pledged elections as part of its five-point road map, but the efforts of the State Administration Council to consolidate control included revisions to the election law that led to the dissolution of some of the most popularly supported political parties, including the ousted National League for Democracy. The extension of the state of emergency, and the sustained offensive against the resistance, including ongoing aerial bombardment in civilian populated areas, continued to drive conflict and violence throughout the country. 17. The State Administration Council continued its engagement with select ethnic armed organizations signatory to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, inviting their leaders to what it described as peace talks in Nay Pyi Taw. Key ethnic armed organizations, especially those engaged in active conflict, including several signatories to the Agreement, declined to participate. The State Administration Council has excluded key resistance movements, including the National Unity Government, as well as the National Unity Consultative Council and the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, foreclosing the opportunity for genuine and inclusive dialogue. The State Administration Council continues to designate the National Unity Government, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, and the People’s Defence Forces as “terrorist organizations”. 18. Ethnic states in border areas, as well as central Myanmar regions, including Sagaing and Magway, remain among the most affected by armed conflict, refl ecting sustained opposition to the Myanmar military. Resistance forces, including selfdeclared People’s Defence Forces in these areas, have increased their collaboration with established ethnic armed organizations, and some of these forces have grown increasingly sophisticated, utilizing new technologies and accessing regional arms markets. Some resistance groups are also carrying out attacks on targets they perceive as pro-military as the State Administration Council continues to support and reportedly increasingly rely on militias that work alongside security forces. Such groups include the Pyu Saw Htee militia, which includes military veterans and supporters active in Sagaing and Magwe, as well as several other militias allegedly responsible for targeted killings, notably of civilians, elsewhere in the country. 19. Despite efforts by the Myanmar armed forces to assert control, popular support for the resistance persisted, which also affected key allies, including the Border Guard Forces. In June, armed personnel from the military-aligned Border Guard Forces in Kayah State broke ranks and fought alongside resistance forces against military targets. The defection, assessed by some as the first substantial defection from the Border Guard Forces since the military takeover, reflected the competing pressures faced by some allies of the Myanmar armed forces. 20. Throughout the reporting period, there continued to be credible reports of aerial bombardments, large-scale burning of villages, killings of civilians, and sexual and gender-based violence by the Myanmar armed forces. There were also reports of resistance groups using violence and committing human rights abuses. The Secretary - General has called on all sides to exercise maximum restraint and to desist from any form of violence and focus on reducing the suffering of the people as a prerequisite for sustainable peace. 21. Reflective of growing social cohesion across ethnic and political party lines, several key ethnic armed organizations, the National Unity Government and civil society organizations articulated several proposals aimed at fostering domestic political coherence and responding to the increasing humanitarian and protection needs of the most vulnerable communities, including by working with the Un ited Nations, ASEAN and neighbouring countries. 22. For example, National Unity Government and National Unity Consultative Council members, including representatives of women’s groups, labour groups and ethnic armed organizations, formed a joint coordination committee on humanitarian assistance to coordinate policy in relation to the delivery of aid to communities affected by human-made and natural disasters. The National Unity Government and several key ethnic armed organizations, including the Chin National Front, the Karen National Union and the Karenni National Progressive Party, conducted a joint humanitarian assessment of the most vulnerable areas of Myanmar and shared it with international actors. This group, together with humanitarian civil society organizations, continued to promote an inclusive humanitarian forum led by Myanmar aimed at addressing vulnerabilities through all channels, including credible, locally led organizations. 23. In Rakhine State, there was some incremental improvement in freedom of movement for the Rohingya owing to improved intercommunal relations in certain areas. However, no discernible efforts were noted on the part of the military to address the structural issues that impede the peace and prosperity of Rakhine State and that disproportionately affect Rohingya communities. 24. Civil and citizenship documentation remained inaccessible for the vast majority of the Rohingya owing to complicated and lengthy procedures, as well as prohibitive costs. Citizenship application remains contingent on possessing the National Verification Card or Identity Card for National Verification, which continue to designate Rohingya as “Bengali”. Rohingya communities continued to face significant challenges in registering the births of their children and updating household lists, which affects their freedom of movement, access to services, school enrolment and civil and other key documentation, including with regard to housing, land and property. 25. Cyclone Mocha caused significant damage in Rakhine State, with Rohingya in internally displaced persons camps among the worst affected. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimated that almost 5.4 million people were in the cyclone’s path in Rakhine and north-west Myanmar. In response, humanitarian partners issued a flash appeal to assist 1.6 million people in the affected areas, including 1.1 million already targeted as part of the Myanmar humanitarian response plan for 2023. The combined humanitarian response plan and flash appeal for 2023 would assist 5 million people and require $887 million. As at 14 August 2023, the combined response plan was only 25 per cent funded. 26. The retraction by the State Administration Council of initial approval for the cyclone-related distribution and transportation plans of the United Nations and the temporary suspension of travel authorizations for humanitarian organizations in Rakhine impeded the humanitarian response and compounded the already dire living conditions of the cyclone-affected population. Despite restrictions, humanitarians reached almost 607,000 people with food assistance in Rakhine, and more than 274,000 people with shelter support, while support was provided in other areas, including health care, nutrition, and short- and long-term recovery and communitybased resilience support. The Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim for Myanmar called on the State Administration Council to urgently reconsider its decision to deny access. 27. The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer, concluded her assignment on 12 June 2023. The Secretary-General is thankful to Ms. Heyzer for her tireless efforts on behalf of peace and the people of Myanmar..."
Source/publisher: UN General Assembly
2023-08-14
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-31
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 298.13 KB
more
Description: ""Importantly, those involved in conflict need to know how to cultivate and foster peace for our future." Jesua Lynn The military coup in Myanmar has heavily affected young people, who represent more than 30 per cent of the population. The military regime has brutally killed more than 3,000 innocent civilians and made more than 20,000 arrests, and young people have been leading the resistance since day one. Young people have been active in protests and have employed different disobedience tactics, including social media campaigns, fundraising with gamification and click-to-donate. The oppressive rules limiting the rights and freedom of young people have even led many of them to take up arms to fight for their rights, as well as to defend their families and reclaim democracy. But many groups of young people also spread the awareness of social cohesion, cultural diversity and conflict resolution, to help equip their peers as a foundation for future nation and state-building. One youth-led platform in particular is still committed to peacebuilding and nation-building in the future. It is the School of Federalism and Peace Studies, Spring University Myanmar, founded and led by the younger generations of Myanmar. This pioneer academic platform offers three main activities: short courses, diploma courses and debate classes, with the theme of federalism and peace studies. This platform for young individuals aims to educate and equip their peers, younger generations and the wider public with the necessary knowledge to comprehend the ongoing conflicts in Myanmar from both practical and academic perspectives. "We train the young people to understand the transitional justice and genocide studies to apply in their relevant works and put efforts to avoid such ugly crimes against humanity in the future" Teaching peace The curriculum includes courses such as ‘Peace, Conflict, and Society’ and ‘Human Rights and Peacebuilding’, designed to foster an interdisciplinary understanding of present conflict patterns, violence, and human rights violations within society. Additionally, modules on genocide studies, humanitarian intervention, and the role of media in peacebuilding are incorporated to train young people to analyse current conflicts and encourage their involvement in conflict prevention, management, and action against the crimes committed against humanity in Myanmar. The module on ‘Social Cohesion and Transitional Justice’ seeks to raise awareness among young individuals about the importance of transitional justice. It encourages them to exert more effort in promoting justice at the community and national levels. A School representative said, “Young people are actively involved in revolutionary movements for the restoration of democracy and claiming the peaceful federal state. On the other hand, our younger generations need to access the understanding of important ingredients of future peacebuilding. That is what we are doing. We train the young people to understand the transitional justice and genocide studies to apply in their relevant works and put efforts to avoid such ugly crimes against humanity in the future.” After the military coup, there has been significantly increased hate speech and polarisation within the society due to the different political beliefs and affiliations. There also has been spread of misinformation and ethno-religious divides, which have been used by the military to divide the public. To contribute to combating this, the School’s training equips young people to recognising and undermining these manipulated narratives of hate within the community. The School offers a training programme focusing on dialogue and debate to enhance critical thinking and foster an authentic community dialogue culture. It is worth noting that the international community has consistently emphasised the importance of dialogue, but the military regime has often manipulated these dialogue arrangements, resulting in negative responses from the younger generations and the people. Therefore, it is crucial to educate the younger generations on the true essence and purpose of authentic dialogue and its potential applications. Looking to the future Given the political situation in Myanmar, the areas beyond any government control have been expanding, leaving the local people to decide how to deal with the conflicts in their areas in their own ways. Dialogue can serve as a viable pathway for progress in these circumstances. To achieve the desired peaceful, democratic, and federal nation, internal cohesion is critical. Dialogue can enhance social cohesion within the community to have a common goal and objective for future nation and state-building. To prepare the younger generations for involvement in nation and state-building, they need to be equipped with essential skills such as critical thinking, research, presentation, and debate. This school platform can be considered a pioneering space where young people can learn the skills and competencies to actively participate in conflict resolution, monitoring, social cohesion, and future nation and state-building. While much attention is often directed towards resistance and revolution, this group of young people focuses on the future of Myanmar, dedicating their efforts to peacebuilding and preparing their peers for the challenges ahead. Currently, this school platform is under-resourced and ask for the cooperation and any assistance for the sustainability. These kinds of works should have more access to resources and support. “Those in the conflict need to understand peace and how to build peace. If they do not know how to make or build peace, there will always be problem-solving through violence, even in the future,” said a representative from the School. Jesua Lynn is an independent research and training consultant. He has been working in the field of peacebuilding, social cohesion, and youth activism of Myanmar for more than five years. He also writes the articles and stories in Asia Democracy Chronicles, as a regular contributor from Myanmar..."
Source/publisher: Peace Direct
2023-08-17
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-17
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "Kayin, Myanmar Event Date : Mon, 07 Aug 2023 AHADID : AHA-FL-2023-000694-MMR | GLIDE Number : Impact Update Date : Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:05:28 AFFECTED AREA/S Bago, Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Magway, Mon, Rakhine, Tanintharyi, Yangon DESCRIPTION Reports as of 11 August 2023, The flooding occurs in the following areas: Kachin: Bamo Kayin: Kyainseikgyi, Kyeikdon, Hlaingbwe, Myawaddy, Hpa-An, Hpa-pun, Kyondoe, Kawkareik Chin: Kawkareik Tanintharyi: Kawthaung, Taninthayi - Bago Shwegyin, Bago Magway: Chauk, Yenangyaung Mon: Thanbyuzayat, Mudon, Mawlamyine, Bilin, Ye, Kyaikto, Thaton Rakhine: Thandwe, Toungup, Maungdaw, Kyauktaw, Minbya Yangon: Taik Kyi..."
Source/publisher: ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-08-07
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-11
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.23 MB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS According to the UN, an estimated 1,927,200 internally displaced people (IDPs) were reported across the country, including 1,599,200 displaced after 1 February 2021. In the North-West, displacements continued following frequent airstrikes and arson attacks. Some 48,000 cyclone-affected people still require humanitarian assistance with urgent repairs needed on over 9,000 damaged or destroyed shelters. In Chin, Magway and Sagaing, humanitarian access became increasingly difficult due to the escalating conflict. In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, 150,000 shelters remained in poor condition in Rakhine State after Cyclone Mocha. Explosive remnants of war and debris as well as saltwater contamination and poor drainage and sanitation are immediate challenges that have elevated the risk of malaria and waterborne illnesses such as dengue and acute watery diarrhea in several Townships. In Kachin and Shan (North), persistent clashes saw many people flee their homes in search of safety within Kayah State or across the Thai border, leaving many at heightened risk of indiscriminate attacks and shelling, arbitrary arrest and abduction. Access to basic services, including healthcare and education, was extremely limited for new IDPs. Food security was another significant concern with access to livelihood areas reduced due to movement restrictions imposed by armed actors, concerns that farmland had been contaminated with unexploded ordnance as well as fears of forced recruitment. In the South-East, clashes, airstrikes and indiscriminate and targeted shelling were reported in Kayah, Kayin, Mon and Shan (South) States and Bago (East) and Tanintharyi Regions. The destruction of civilian infrastructure in villages and IDP sites, including homes, hospitals, schools, and places of worship, continued to be pervasive. The alleged use of civilians as human shields in Kayin and Mon States and Tanintharyi Region have also been reported..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-08-09
Date of entry/update: 2023-08-09
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 8.25 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 13 July, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued in August 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Ongoing conflict and natural disasters are continuing to exacerbate humanitarian needs across Myanmar. • Nearly 1.9 million internally displaced people face precarious living conditions and urgently need critical and lifesaving assistance. • Two months have passed since Cyclone Mocha struck western Myanmar and expanded humanitarian access is desperately needed to support those affected. • After a brief suspension, humanitarians have been able to re-start their regular programmes in Rakhine, but the humanitarian cyclone response remains paused by the SAC. • Distribution, transport and import requests have all been resubmitted and are now pending approval. • Countrywide, restrictions on humanitarian access have increased in multiple states and regions, notably in the Southeast and Kachin, further impeding timely and efficient aid delivery to affected and displaced communities. • Sustained support, including financial assistance, from the international community is crucial to allowing partners to stay and deliver in challenging circumstances. • Six months into 2023, the combined $US886.7 million Humanitarian Response Plan and Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeals, remain critically underfunded, with only 17 per cent of the required funding received, as of 14 July..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-07-15
Date of entry/update: 2023-07-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 514 KB
more
Description: "Highlights: As schools reopen amid the devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha, more than 300,000 learners require educational support, and an estimated 1,246 schools are heavily damaged across Rakhine and the Northwest. With the compounding effects of the conflict and the impact of the cyclone, the humanitarian community is concerned about increasing reports of psychosocial distress among the affected population as worsening living conditions heighten anxiety due to the lack of access to basic services. UNICEF and partners delivered humanitarian WASH services and supplies to 233,848 individuals, 1,013 of them with disabilities and continues to disinfect water sources, rehabilitate sanitation facilities, and dewater the rainwater harvesting ponds flooded with seawater during the cyclone. During the reporting period, UNICEF and partners provided critical primary health care services to more than 98,000 people, reaching almost 4,000 children aged 9--18 months with the measles vaccine. With the resumption of routine immunization across the country, UNICEF and partners are supporting catch-up vaccination for 1.6 million children who missed their doses..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-07-03
Date of entry/update: 2023-07-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 572.47 KB
more
Description: "Children paying a high price for engaging in work in Myanmar Survey reveals poverty a main driver of child labour in Yangon Region, Ayeyarwady Region and Kayin State with dangerous work and long hours common. Yangon, Myanmar (ILO News) – A new report assessing the situation of working children in Myanmar shows the extent to which children are working to support their families and the high incidence of hazardous work they engage in. More than 70 per cent of working children interviewed in an assessment by ILO Myanmar’s Asia Regional Child Labour Project (ARC) in the Yangon Region, Ayeyarwady Region and Kayin State were working primarily due to financial challenges in their households. School closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the political crisis had also driven children to work, further exacerbating child labour. Even after schools re-opened, many children did not return to school due to safety concerns resulting from the political instability in the country. A third of children interviewed in the three areas were in domestic work with others primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and wholesale and retail trade – many of whom were working long hours for low pay. The assessment also found that children were often performing hazardous work and dangerous tasks. Almost 90 per cent of children interviewed who were working in construction sector carried heavy loads and over 80 per cent worked long hours under the sun without a break. Many interviewed children reported that they experienced accidents and injuries, with minor injuries being the most frequent, followed by bruises, bumps and swelling. “More than half of working children in this assessment said they wanted to have an education if given the chance, reflecting the extent to which work has interfered with their aspirations to go to school. This situation has only been made worse since COVID-19 and the nationwide conflicts caused by political crisis.,” said Donglin Li, Liaison Officer and Representative, ILO Myanmar. Communities and employers in the three regions appeared largely unaware of the laws relating to the minimum age for employing children. Some employers, notably in the agriculture sector, indicated that they preferred to employ children because they can be easily controlled, paid less, and do not frequently complain. Others employed children who accompanied their parents to work due to safety concerns at home. To effectively address child labour issues in Myanmar, the report provides recommendations for appropriate awareness raising, advocacy and overarching key policy interventions to be pursued, when the situation allows. ILO’s ARC Project is a regional project implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan. The assessment released to mark the World Day Against Child Labour on 12 June 2023 was prepared with financial support from Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the Government of the United Kingdom..."
Source/publisher: International Labour Organization (Geneva)
2023-06-30
Date of entry/update: 2023-07-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 3.52 MB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates that were previously issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating humanitarian clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. HIGHLIGHTS • The approval of the distribution and transportation plans for the Cyclone Mocha response in Rakhine and Chin remains pending. Significant conditions, imposed by the State Administration Council, remain in place for the replenishment of relief supplies from outside the country and some have not yet been approved. • After humanitarian access was temporarily suspended in the cyclone-affected Rakhine state on 8 June, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) a.i released a statement on 12 June, urging the State Administration Council to urgently re-instate the initial approval that was granted and allow life-saving assistance to resume. • Meanwhile, efforts are underway to engage with the de facto authorities at the Nay Pyi Taw and regional level to try and expand access to people in need. This included high-level engagement with Union ministers by the RC/HC ai and UN agencies in Sittwe. • Despite the humanitarian access restrictions, aid organizations have been delivering vital assistance to cyclone-affected communities where they have authorizations and supplies. More than 144,000 affected people have received shelter and other essential relief items in Rakhine and other areas since the cyclone. However, only a fraction of damaged and destroyed shelters have reportedly been repaired, leaving thousands of people without a proper roof over their heads during the monsoon season and exposing them to overcrowding and lack of privacy in the few shelters that remain functional. • Food assistance has reached almost 380,000 affected people in Rakhine alone. • Nearly 12,500 people in Rakhine, the Northwest, and Kachin have received healthcare. Nutrition assistance has reached more than 7,000 children under 5 and more than 1,500 caregivers in 8 priority townships in Rakhine. • Some 70 contaminated ponds in Ponnagyun, Rathedaung, and Sittwe townships were successfully de-watered. • More than 300 child-friendly spaces were rebuilt in Rakhine and the Northwest, and more than 34,000 children and caregivers received psychosocial support and psychological first aid services. • Continued financial support for the US$333 million Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal is required to ensure timely procurement of vital supplies to address the needs of affected communities. According to the Financial Tracking Service, as of 16 June, only $21.7 million in additional funds has been received. SITUATION OVERVIEW One month on from Cyclone Mocha, the unexpected retraction of initial approval for cyclone distribution and transportation plans and the temporary suspension of existing travel authorizations (TAs) for humanitarian organizations in Rakhine by the de facto authorities, has impacted the humanitarian response across the state. This sudden decision has exacerbated the already dire living conditions of the cyclone-affected population as heavy rains and flooding from the monsoon season continue to impact areas already severely affected by the cyclone. After humanitarian access was temporarily suspended in the cyclone-affected Rakhine state on 8 June, the RC/HC a.i released a statement on 12 June, urging the State Administration Council to urgently re-instate the initial approval that was granted and allow life-saving assistance to resume. The RC/HC a.i. and his delegation also met with the Union Ministers in Sittwe on 15 June and held extensive discussions on possible modalities of support to cyclone affected people in accordance with humanitarian principles, and about the importation of supplies into Myanmar. At the request of the de facto authorities, UN agencies in Sittwe also met with the relevant state officials and Union Ministers on 13 June. Engagement is expected to continue. Despite the access limitations and the temporary suspension of regular activities for a week from 8 June, humanitarian organizations have reached an increasing number of people in need since the cyclone where they have authorizations and supplies. Shelter and relief items have been provided to more than 144,000 people in Rakhine and other areas, while food assistance has reached nearly 380,000 people in Rakhine alone. Healthcare services were provided to nearly 12,500 people in Rakhine, the Northwest, and Kachin, and nutrition assistance reached more than 7,000 children under 5 and more than 1,500 caregivers in 8 priority townships in Rakhine. Additionally, 70 contaminated ponds in Ponnagyun, Rathedaung, and Sittwe townships were successfully de-watered, and more than 300 child-friendly spaces (CFSs) were rebuilt in Rakhine and the Northwest. Psychosocial support (PSS) and psychological first aid (PFA) services were provided to more than 34,000 children and caregivers. Humanitarian actors are hoping to continue to explore various avenues to scale-up their operations beyond their existing regular activities. Cyclone impacted communities have been calling for such a scale-up to supplement the ongoing efforts by the local authorities, private donors and civil society organizations. The centralization of decision making on TAs for the cyclone response, however, has now put that expansion on hold. Engagement at the Nay Pyi Taw and regional level will continue, with the aim to identify modalities for predictable and timely access to cyclone-affected areas in Rakhine and Chin to address the immediate and longer-term needs of the affected communities. Scaled-up financial support is also urgently required to facilitate the timely procurement of vital supplies. According to the Financial Tracking Service (FTS), as of 16 June, US$21.7 million in additional funds has been received against the $333 million Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-06-19
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-19
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf pdf
Size: 302.77 KB 404.02 KB
more
Description: "Yangon, 13 June 2023: UNDP, UN Women and UN-Habitat yesterday brought together representatives from local communities, NGOs, development partners and the private sector to discuss research on urban poverty and the innovative strategies being used in a new project building resilience in low-income urban communities. The event took place in Myanmar’s commercial capital, Yangon, where the compounded crises of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic and political upheaval resulting from the February 2021 coup have had a devastating impact on Yangon’s urban poor. “When confronted with turmoil across the country, the breakdown in the rule of law, the human rights abuses, the alarming numbers of people displaced by conflict and disasters, it is easy to overlook what is happening right here in Yangon. Life has always been hard for the urban poor, but now it is so much harder. Poor people are much poorer, and their numbers have grown significantly,” Titon Mitra, UNDP Myanmar’s Resident Representative, said in his opening remarks. “If we do not turn our attention to the urban poor and vulnerable, we may enable the conditions for a rapid deepening of intergenerational poverty.” The Urban Resilience Project (URP) aims to support those made most vulnerable by urban poverty in Yangon, including women and people living in informal settlements. It is a joint project between UNDP, UN Women and UN-Habitat, working in eight townships, five of which are under martial law, identified as the most socially and economically marginalized. It aims to strengthen residents’ resilience by supporting community-led groups to improve basic services and facilities; upgrade the physical environment of informal settlements; address gender-based violence; and promote livelihoods, skills and job creation. UNDP’s Myanmar Development Observatory presented the findings from the recently published report Helping communities weather the socio-economic downturn: Building urban resilience. The study shows people living in Yangon’s eight poorest townships earn 30 percent less than those in the rest of Yangon and that almost a quarter of the residents of these townships had often gone without a cash income in the past 12 months. Compared to the rest of Yangon, households in the eight URP townships are: more likely to live in an informal settlement (14.2% of URP households compared to 1.2% of households in the rest of Yangon); more like to have noticed violence against women by family members in their neighbourhood, (14.7% compared to 11.4%); less likely to have access to drinkable water in the dry season (88.9% of households compared to 97.3%); more likely to be unable to eat nutritious food (27.5% of households compared to 23%); and 1.8 times more likely to take their children out of school to earn money. During the panel discussion, Catarina Camarinhas, Country Programme Manager a.i. of UN-Habitat, highlighted that only 30 percent of Myanmar’s population resides in urban areas, which presents many opportunities for sustainable urbanization and poverty reduction. “Building resilience and promoting sustainable urbanization in Myanmar requires comprehensive initiatives and collaboration. By engaging multiple stakeholders and implementing effective local-level strategies, we are working towards sustainable development and climate change adaptation. Together with our partners, we aim to implement gender-responsive climate action in Myanmar,” she said. Jackie Appel, CEO and founder of the Step-in Step-up Academy, explained how her NGO has been providing vocational training to young people to meet specific job needs in Yangon’s workforce, including in healthcare, office work and hospitality. One young woman explained to the audience at the event how she took part in training to be a cashier and immediately was employed by Yoma Bank after graduating. Shihab Uddin Ahamad, WaterAid Myanmar’s Country Director, meanwhile discussed how the organization is bringing affordable clean water to low-income areas of Yangon through establishing bottling plants, and helping garment factory workers, who are almost all women, subsidize their incomes through food and hygiene product packages. Women and girls in Yangon’s urban areas are particularly vulnerable. Over 80 percent of women in the baseline study said rising food prices and loss of employment or revenues were their major challenges. And in a 2021 UN Women study in Yangon, two out of three women reported being extremely worried about becoming a victim of a violent crime. “We know 80 percent of women are working in informal employment in Yangon, that makes them vulnerable to economic downturn and provides hardly any social protection. On top of that, a lack of safe shelter and housing conditions increases the risk of sexual and gender-based violence,” said Karin Fueg, Country Representative a.i. of UN Women. “Under the URP, UN Women is leading a gender-responsive incubator and business accelerator to help women access business skills and finance, and to address gender norms through life skills, help accessing business networks and referrals to support services like legal aid, psycho-social support or gender-based violence services,” Ms Fueg said. The Urban Resilience Project’s community-based approach will create opportunities for resilience building, economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. By addressing the needs of the most vulnerable and fostering a sense of ownership, the project lays a foundation for long-term success and positive change. -ENDS- Find out more! Read the report: https://www.undp.org/publications/helping-communities-weather-socio-economic-downturn-building-urban-resilience Explore the Myanmar Development Observatory: https://www.undp.org/myanmar/projects/myanmar-development-observatory The Urban Resilience Project The Urban Resilience Project aims to address urban poverty in eight of Yangon’s poorest peri-urban townships. It focuses on providing access to sustainable sources of safe drinking water, improving health and sanitation services, supporting climate-resilient basic urban infrastructure, including drainage and access roads, and supporting micro and small enterprise development and work opportunities to more than 450,000 people. UN Women UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. A global champion for women and girls, UN Women was established to accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide. UNDP UNDP works in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. It helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and to build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Its work is concentrated in three focus areas: sustainable development, democratic governance and peacebuilding, and climate and disaster resilience. UN-Habitat The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-Habitat, is the agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting socially and environmentally sustainable development of human settlements in an urbanizing world, with the goal of providing safer and inclusive human settlements..."
Source/publisher: UN Development Programme, UN Human Settlements Program, UN Women
2023-06-13
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-16
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.07 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 9 June, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued in early July 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • The devastating impact of Cyclone Mocha, which landed on 14 May on Myanmar’s coastal area, and the ongoing armed conflict have compounded the suffering of people across the country. Needs are enormous especially with the monsoon season well underway. • Nationwide, more than 1.8 million people are currently displaced in Myanmar, with 1.5 million already displaced due to the conflict and insecurity since the 2021 military takeover. • Humanitarians continue providing critical life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable people despite access challenges and limited funding. During the first quarter of 2023, 1.4 million people were reached with humanitarian assistance (31 per cent of the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan target). • In the cyclone-affected zone especially in Rakhine, Northwest and Kachin, humanitarian organizations have been delivering assistance where they have stocks and approval. However, more supplies, wider access and increased funding are urgently needed to deliver at-scale and meet needs across all communities. • Restrictions on humanitarian operations and bureaucratic hurdles are impeding assistance efforts, also on the cyclone response. Of concern is the recent decision to suspend humanitarian access in Rakhine. In a press release of 12 June, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator urged the de facto authorities to reconsider this decision and prioritize the well-being of the people including of the cyclone-affected communities. • Generous funding is vital to alleviate human suffering and support the humanitarian response in Myanmar. The US$764 million Humanitarian Response Plan, plus an additional $122 million for new activities outlined in Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal, is crucial for recovery and relief efforts..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-06-13
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-13
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 544.75 KB
more
Description: "In Numbers 3.4 million people are living in Cyclone Mocha’s highest impact zone 1.6 million people targeted for the UN cyclone response At least 800,000 cyclone-affected people are prioritized for WFP’s food and nutrition support for an initial three-month period Highlights WFP has reached 394,400 people across Rakhine State within the first month of its cyclone response with emergency food assistance. WFP’s ongoing market monitoring in central Rakhine showed a decrease in the prices of some food commodities, particularly rice, following WFP’s in-kind food distributions. WFP will face a critical interruption in all its life-saving activities, starting from August 2023, without a fresh injection of critical funding. WFP urgently needs US$60 million to ensure uninterrupted emergency food and nutrition assistance. Situation Update The impact of Cyclone Mocha exacerbated an already precarious food security situation, particularly in townships and displacement sites in Rakhine State, where households experienced a substantial loss of food stocks and livelihoods, with their shelters destroyed. Local relief and recovery efforts are ongoing across several cyclone-affected areas. WFP’s initial rapid situation monitoring in five cyclone-affected townships showed that agricultural land, fishponds, and drinking water supplies have been impacted by saltwater intrusion. Extensive crop damage, including rice seed stocks for the planting season starting in June, adds significant pressure on the medium-to-longer-term food security of households who are already grappling with disrupted livelihood activities. Preliminary results of WFP’s ongoing market monitoring in central Rakhine showed a decrease in the prices of some food commodities, particularly rice, following WFP’s in-kind food distributions. WFP will continue to monitor the market situation, which will inform the gradual resumption and potential expansion of its cash-based transfer (CBT) activities in Rakhine..."
Source/publisher: World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
2023-06-12
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-12
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 417.01 KB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates that were previously issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating humanitarian clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. Sit Reps are now being issued weekly. HIGHLIGHTS The humanitarian access situation in cyclone-hit Rakhine state has deteriorated with existing travel authorizations (TAs) for humanitarian organizations suspended this week pending new, centralized discussions in Nay Pyi Taw. Initial approval for humanitarian distribution and transportation plans for cyclone-affected townships in Rakhine have also been rescinded pending further Nay Pyi Taw-level deliberations. Similar plans in Chin are also pending. Some requests for the replenishment of relief supplies from outside the country have been approved, but with significant conditions. Others remain pending. The suspension of access in Rakhine brings a stop to activities that have been reaching hundreds of thousands of people. To date, more than 110,000 affected people have received shelter and other essential relief items. Food assistance had reached almost 300,000 affected people in Rakhine state alone. In Rakhine, partners were distributing seeds and organic fertilizers to provide families with food to eat and sell. Further scaled-up distributions of agricultural inputs are critical to combating food insecurity in affected areas over the months ahead and are now also on pause. Humanitarians have also been prioritizing the wellbeing of children in the response, including through the establishment of hundreds of mobile and temporary child-friendly spaces, and the distribution of critical child safety messaging to nearly 28,000 people across Rakhine and the Northwest. The suspension of activities in Rakhine could not have come at worse time with the monsoon arriving. An urgent scale-up of the response is needed, expanding activities that had already been underway in the impact zone and adding to assistance being distributed by a range of local authorities and civil society organizations in different areas. SITUATION OVERVIEW The monsoon season has arrived in Myanmar, further worsening the living situation facing people whose homes were damaged or destroyed by Cyclone Mocha in mid-May. Heavy rains and some flooding were observed in areas that were already heavily impacted, further hampering the recovery process for people whose coping capacities are already stretched to the limit. Against this backdrop, access restrictions have escalated. Existing TAs that had been facilitating assistance delivery in Rakhine have been suspended pending centralized discussions in Nay Pyi Taw through the Disaster Management Committee. Using these existing approvals, humanitarians had been reaching a growing number of people in need. More than 113,200 people in the affected areas have received shelter and other relief items, while food assistance has reached more than 293,800 people in Rakhine alone. In addition, humanitarians have been working to ensure cyclone-affected children are looked after with the establishment of 240 mobile and temporary child-friendly spaces in Rakhine and the Northwest. These spaces provide safe environments for children to engage in recreational activities and receive vital psychosocial support after the trauma and disruption they have experienced. Approximately 28,000 people in Rakhine and the Northwest have also received important child safety messages. Humanitarians had been hoping to scale-up their operations in the coming weeks, but this centralized decision on TAs now puts that on hold. Initial approval for humanitarian distribution and transport plans across 11 townships have also been rescinded pending additional deliberations in Nay Pyi Taw. Similar plans for Chin are also not yet approved. Some import requests have been approved with conditions. Others remain pending. Flexible imports are critical for the replenishment of supplies. Scaled-up financial support is also urgently required to facilitate the timely procurement of vital supplies. According to the Financial Tracking Service (FTS), as of 6 June, only US$8 million in additional funds has been received against the $333 million Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal. This appeal aims to provide assistance to 1.6 million people most heavily impacted by the cyclone in Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway, and Kachin..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-06-09
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-09
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf pdf
Size: 474.08 KB 593.31 KB
more
Description: "Highlights Extremely severe Cyclone Mocha, one of the strongest cyclones ever recorded in Myanmar, made landfall on 14 May 2023, impacting an estimated 3.4 million people in Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway and Kachin. Multiple injuries and widespread damage to shelters and critical public infrastructure, including water supplies, health facilities, schools and electricity have been reported. The cyclone exacerbated already severe and deteriorating humanitarian and human rights crises for communities in the affected regions. Access of children and their families to essential services such as health care, protection, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene, and education is severely constrained. It has been critically disrupted in cyclone-affected areas. These interrelated challenges threaten children's survival, development, safety and well-being. UNICEF requires US$217.9 million, an increase of $48.4 million as a result of the cyclone, in addition to ongoing multisectoral humanitarian needs. UNICEF's humanitarian strategy focuses on working with all stakeholders, including communities and local and international partners, to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance and ensure critical services reach children in need. HUMANITARIAN SITUATION AND NEEDS One of the strongest cyclones ever recorded in Myanmar, Mocha made landfall in Rakhine State on 14 May 2023.10 The cyclone continued inland, bringing heavy rains and winds, and leaving a trail of destruction through Chin, Sagaing, Magway and Kachin. An estimated 3.4 million people live in the areas most impacted. Significant damage to houses, shelters for internally displaced people, and public infrastructure has been reported. Around 17.6 million people were already in need of humanitarian assistance before Cyclone Mocha, including 4.5 million in severe conditions, mainly in conflict-affected rural areas. An additional estimated 500,000 in the five states and regions need humanitarian assistance following the cyclone. The widespread conflict has further deteriorated in 2023. Increased fighting has been occurring nationwide, with notable intensification mainly in the southeast, northwest, and Kachin states. More than 1.8 million people were internally displaced, including 1.5 million newly displaced after February 2021. Of these, over 1.2 million internally displaced people were living in the areas impacted by Cyclone Mocha. Communities in Sagaing Region, hardest hit by the conflict with nearly 763,100 people displaced, suffered additional trauma. Cyclone Mocha has further imperiled nearly 220,000 people living in protracted displacement in Rakhine and the extremely vulnerable non-displaced populations, especially 417,000 stateless Rohingyas and communities affected by conflict, insecurity and rising poverty. Grave child rights violations, mainly due to the indiscriminate use of heavy weapons, airstrikes, and explosive ordnance, continue to be largely reported. Attacks on schools and hospitals have continued at alarming levels, while all armed actors' recruitment and use of children remain a grave concern. As a result, women and children are at increased risk of violence, exploitation and abuse. Millions of children and adolescents are deprived of the right to education because their safe access to education has been disrupted. Camp closures, forced return, and relocation remain key protection concerns for displaced people. The security and protection of humanitarian and front-line workers is also a serious concern, as they are increasingly targeted by parties to the conflict and subject to arbitrary arrests and detentions. There has been a notable shrinking of humanitarian space, with access to cyclone and conflict-affected populations constrained by new restrictions on nongovernmental and civil society organizations. In addition, analysis shows that 60 per cent of landmine incidents reported in the first quarter of 2023 were in areas affected by Cyclone Mocha, highlighting the high risks of landmines/unexploded ordinance contamination in cyclone-affected areas - creating an additional potential threat to populations and humanitarian assistance efforts..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-06-03
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 6.01 MB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates that were previously issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating humanitarian clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. The next Sit Rep will be issued on Wednesday, 7 June 2023. HIGHLIGHTS The humanitarian response in cyclone-affected areas continues to expand, however much wider access is still needed to reach the 1.6 million people targeted as part of the Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal across Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin. More than 95,000 people in areas affected by the cyclone have received shelter and other relief items. Almost 267,000 people have received food assistance, and approximately 3,380 metric tons of rice and high-energy biscuits have been distributed to cyclone-affected people in Rakhine. Between 25 and 31 May 2023, health partners conducted more than 7,800 consultations in the most severely affected townships. With the scale-up in the response, the looming monsoon and a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, the replenishment of humanitarian supplies from Yangon and overseas is becoming increasingly urgent. The swift approval of transport and importation requests, a detailed two-week distribution plan, and further travel authorizations (TAs) for the cyclone response are imperative to meet immediate shelter needs and prevent waterborne disease outbreaks. Generous funding is also vital to support the scaling up of humanitarian operations, facilitate procurement, transport, and distribution of supplies, and ensure the well-being of affected communities. As of 2 June, the Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal has received US$4.6 million according to FTS. Simultaneously, local authorities have been working to support recovery through debris clearance and the restoration of power, water and telecommunication services in Rakhine. In parallel, other actors are also providing support to the recovery effort, including in rural areas. SITUATION OVERVIEW Humanitarian response operations continue to expand through organizations with new and existing TAs across the cyclonestricken regions of Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin, with shelter and food assistance particularly gathering pace. More than 95,240 people in areas affected by the cyclone have received shelter and other relief items. More than 266,500 people have received food assistance, and approximately 3,380 metric tons of rice and high-energy biscuits (33 per cent of the total plan) have been distributed to cyclone-affected people in Rakhine. In the Northwest, food distribution for 78,000 people in Magway is pending approval. Between 25 and 31 May 2023, health partners conducted more than 7,800 consultations in the most severely affected townships of Rakhine, the Northwest, and Kachin, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. However, this work is still only meeting a fraction of overall needs and wider access for distributions is desperately required. The clock is ticking with the monsoon looming and another low-pressure area being closely monitored in the Bay of Bengal. Severe damage to agricultural land, loss of livestock and damage to the fishing fleet are also shaping as major food security issues over the weeks ahead. Approval is pending for the transport of supplies from warehouses inside the country and from outside Myanmar. Approval is also pending for a twoweek distribution and related travel authoritzation for Rakhine and Chin. Timely approval of these requests will allow partner organizations to provide safe shelter, address immediate needs, avert potential waterborne disease outbreaks, and mitigate against protection risks. Local authorities have been working on recovery measures in priority areas, particularly in Sittwe and Rathedaung. Debris clearance from Sittwe's streets has improved access to areas that were previously blocked by fallen trees and collapsed electricity poles. Power is gradually being restored to most of the affected regions, and the repair of streetlights along Sittwe town's main thoroughfares has enhanced visibility and safety. Telecommunication services are also coming back online which is vital to engage with the cyclone affected communities as well as for effective coordination and timely response efforts among partners working across the various townships. Work has also been underway to repair schools and deliver water in Rathedaung, Kyauktaw, and Sittwe townships. A 14 member ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ERAT) was deployed to Rakhine to support assessments and response by the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). They have now wrapped up their work. In parallel, other actors are also providing support to the recovery efforts, including in rural areas. They have also been measuring the impact in affected communities and delivering assistance to the extent of their resources and access. Civil society organizations, private donors and religious networks are working to support affected communities. Communities themselves have also swung into action, clearing debris from blocked roads, and providing shelter to those who have lost their homes. Funding is critically needed to support the scale-up of humanitarian operations, facilitating urgent procurement, transport, and distribution of vital supplies to support affected communities. According to Financial Tracking System (FTS), as of 2 June, $4.6 million in additional funds has been received for the $333 million Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal, which seeks to support 1.6 million people affected by the cyclone in Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway, and Kachin..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-06-03
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 499.92 KB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates that were previously issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating humanitarian clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. The next Sit Rep will be issued on Wednesday, 7 June 2023. HIGHLIGHTS The humanitarian response in cyclone-affected areas continues to expand, however much wider access is still needed to reach the 1.6 million people targeted as part of the Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal across Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin. More than 95,000 people in areas affected by the cyclone have received shelter and other relief items. Almost 267,000 people have received food assistance, and approximately 3,380 metric tons of rice and high-energy biscuits have been distributed to cyclone-affected people in Rakhine. Between 25 and 31 May 2023, health partners conducted more than 7,800 consultations in the most severely affected townships. With the scale-up in the response, the looming monsoon and a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, the replenishment of humanitarian supplies from Yangon and overseas is becoming increasingly urgent. The swift approval of transport and importation requests, a detailed two-week distribution plan, and further travel authorizations (TAs) for the cyclone response are imperative to meet immediate shelter needs and prevent waterborne disease outbreaks. Generous funding is also vital to support the scaling up of humanitarian operations, facilitate procurement, transport, and distribution of supplies, and ensure the well-being of affected communities. As of 2 June, the Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal has received US$4.6 million according to FTS. Simultaneously, local authorities have been working to support recovery through debris clearance and the restoration of power, water and telecommunication services in Rakhine. In parallel, other actors are also providing support to the recovery effort, including in rural areas. SITUATION OVERVIEW Humanitarian response operations continue to expand through organizations with new and existing TAs across the cyclonestricken regions of Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin, with shelter and food assistance particularly gathering pace. More than 95,240 people in areas affected by the cyclone have received shelter and other relief items. More than 266,500 people have received food assistance, and approximately 3,380 metric tons of rice and high-energy biscuits (33 per cent of the total plan) have been distributed to cyclone-affected people in Rakhine. In the Northwest, food distribution for 78,000 people in Magway is pending approval. Between 25 and 31 May 2023, health partners conducted more than 7,800 consultations in the most severely affected townships of Rakhine, the Northwest, and Kachin, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. However, this work is still only meeting a fraction of overall needs and wider access for distributions is desperately required. The clock is ticking with the monsoon looming and another low-pressure area being closely monitored in the Bay of Bengal. Severe damage to agricultural land, loss of livestock and damage to the fishing fleet are also shaping as major food security issues over the weeks ahead. Approval is pending for the transport of supplies from warehouses inside the country and from outside Myanmar. Approval is also pending for a twoweek distribution and related travel authoritzation for Rakhine and Chin. Timely approval of these requests will allow partner organizations to provide safe shelter, address immediate needs, avert potential waterborne disease outbreaks, and mitigate against protection risks. Local authorities have been working on recovery measures in priority areas, particularly in Sittwe and Rathedaung. Debris clearance from Sittwe's streets has improved access to areas that were previously blocked by fallen trees and collapsed electricity poles. Power is gradually being restored to most of the affected regions, and the repair of streetlights along Sittwe town's main thoroughfares has enhanced visibility and safety. Telecommunication services are also coming back online which is vital to engage with the cyclone affected communities as well as for effective coordination and timely response efforts among partners working across the various townships. Work has also been underway to repair schools and deliver water in Rathedaung, Kyauktaw, and Sittwe townships. A 14 member ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ERAT) was deployed to Rakhine to support assessments and response by the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). They have now wrapped up their work. In parallel, other actors are also providing support to the recovery efforts, including in rural areas. They have also been measuring the impact in affected communities and delivering assistance to the extent of their resources and access. Civil society organizations, private donors and religious networks are working to support affected communities. Communities themselves have also swung into action, clearing debris from blocked roads, and providing shelter to those who have lost their homes. Funding is critically needed to support the scale-up of humanitarian operations, facilitating urgent procurement, transport, and distribution of vital supplies to support affected communities. According to Financial Tracking System (FTS), as of 2 June, $4.6 million in additional funds has been received for the $333 million Cyclone Mocha Flash Appeal, which seeks to support 1.6 million people affected by the cyclone in Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway, and Kachin..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-06-02
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf pdf
Size: 499.92 KB 631.82 KB
more
Description: "Highlights Almost three weeks after Cyclone Mocha hit Myanmar, the response in the Northwest remains constrained for 48,000 affected individuals, particularly for essential WASH needs. Cases of children and adolescents participating in unsafe reconstruction and income generation to support their families have been reported in some parts of Rakhine. UNICEF partners are provided essential learning packages to mitigate learning loss due to the delay in restoring learning infrastructure, especially in the Northwest. UNICEF partners stepped up primary healthcare services with additional fixed and mobile clinics and cold chain equipment to strengthen routine immunization in affected areas in Rakhine..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-06-02
Date of entry/update: 2023-06-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 145.87 KB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates that were previously issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating humanitarian clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. The next Sit Rep will be issued on 2 June 2023. HIGHLIGHTS Two weeks after Cyclone Mocha hit western Myanmar safe shelter remains a key priority for cyclone-affected people who have been left without a roof over their head as the monsoon approaches. Cyclone Mocha has exposed significant safety and security challenges for cyclone affected communities. To date, shelter and other relief items have been distributed to more than 63,000 people. More than 230,000 people have received food assistance but household food reserves are dwindling, and communities are having difficulty buying food due to price rises and crop damage. Loss of agricultural inputs and livestock is a growing problem. The cyclone has created an education emergency with approximately 80 per cent of schools and educational infrastructure reportedly sustaining damage ahead of the start of the new school term. Work is underway to reinstate Temporary Learning Spaces (TLSs), disseminate learning kits to children, and restore schools and learning centers to operation. While humanitarians continue to ramp up support where they have authorizations and supplies, so far it has only been possible to reach a fraction of the 1.6 million people identified for assistance in the $333 million Flash Appeal launched last week. Wider access for distributions is urgently needed, along with permission to transport humanitarian supplies from in-country warehouses and into Myanmar from other countries. Detailed plans for the transport and distribution of supplies have been shared and are pending approval. Pledges of additional funding from generous donors have started arriving, but much more is needed to adequately support vulnerable people and ensure prompt distributions of critical supplies. SITUATION OVERVIEW Two weeks have passed since Cyclone Mocha struck Myanmar the humanitarian response is gathering pace but aid agencies still require more supplies, expanded access and additional funds to distribute assistance at-scale. Needs are enormous across all communities. The consequences of the cyclone reach far beyond the physical destruction of houses and public infrastructure, with a range of safety risks now also threatening the well-being of the affected population. These risks include the movement of unexploded ordnance (UXOs) in flooded areas, instances of sexual and gender-based violence, loss of civil documentation, looting, extortion, and robbery. Such risks pose a direct threat to affected communities, potentially exacerbating negative coping mechanisms such as high interest borrowing and children begging due to the lack of job opportunities of their parents. This situation increases the likelihood of child labor, exploitation, and abuse. The cyclone's impact has eroded community support systems among affected populations. Reports from partners on the ground indicate that parents are struggling to adequately care for their children while they are rebuilding their damaged homes or are seeking employment to sustain their families. Of particular concern is the situation faced by displaced communities, that are currently enduring overcrowded living conditions that lack privacy, sanitation, and proper lighting in many areas. These conditions pose the risk of sexual abuse and harassment, particularly targeting women and adolescent girls. Adding to the gravity of the situation is the destruction or damage to most of the Women and Girls’ Centers in the affected areas. Despite ongoing access challenges, humanitarian partners are ensuring that field observations continue in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the cyclone's impact, especially among vulnerable groups. Simultaneously, those who have access are intensifying their response efforts, delivering critical and lifesaving assistance to affected communities in the Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-05-31
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-31
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 504.49 KB
more
Description: "Highlights • Cases of child neglect are reported, as caregivers are preoccupied with survival and suffering from psychosocial distress, increasing child protection risks, including physical risks of playing in debris or water unsupervised, as well as exposure of children to trafficking, violence or exploitation. • 1,113 primary health care consultations have been provided in Rakhine through mobile health clinics from May 22 to date. • UNICEF and partners continued to provide mental health and psychosocial support, including psychosocial first aid, to 1,432 people (653 girls, 623 boys, 88 women, 68 men) through safe spaces and mobile child-friendly spaces in both Rakhine and Northwest. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs The humanitarian situation in regions and states affected by Cyclone Mocha continues to be a concern, as challenges in a number of affected sectors will have an impact on children’s survival, wellbeing and development. Telecommunication remains the major constraint for collecting and sharing information in both Rakhine and the Northwest. Electricity resumed with limited hours (4-8 hours) in almost all areas of the Northwest while Rakhine State remains with no electricity. Humanitarian access to the affected population continues to be a challenge due to bureaucratic impediments, ongoing conflict and restrictions on movement and supply transportation. Affected people, including children and women, are at risk of explosive ordnance, mainly in conflict-affected areas. UNICEF’s Rakhine field office is replenishing stocks to scale up or continue assistance to affected children and populations. Transport takes longer than usual and there are delays in the arrival of supplies due to administrative process and several checkpoints. According to WASH Cluster partners, about 700 households in Chin State, 4,800 households in Magway, and 2,800 households in Sagaing Region have been affected. These numbers may increase, as partners are still collecting information in some areas. To date, approximately 41,500 people have been identified as having suffered impacts from the cyclone, with WASH assistance - especially safe drinking water, emergency latrines, and hygiene supplies - the priority needs. WASH Cluster partners reported that 208 ponds/ wells were flooded by salty water, affecting 101,378 people from 9,152 households in seven townships of Rakhine State affected by the cyclone. 193 open wells’ roofing sheets and wooden structures were damaged by storm winds in 46 villages in six townships (Sittwe, Ponnagyun, Mrauk U, Minbya, Maungdaw, and Man Aung). Two LifeStraw buildings were damaged in two villages in Minbya Township. Over 2,800 latrines were damaged in protracted camps and displacement sites in eight townships. Among 14 static nutrition treatment out-patient therapeutic programme and supplementary feeding program (OTP/SFP) centres in Rakhine, four centres were totally destroyed by the cyclone and need new buildings/ reconstruction, while an additional 10 centres need minor repairs. Partners reported that children are roaming around without clothes, often unsupervised, increasing child protection risks, including physical risks of playing in debris or water unsupervised, as well as exposure to trafficking, violence or exploitation. There is a need for support to caregivers, who require mental health and psychosocial support, as distress is impacting their capacity to care for their children. Cases of child neglect are reported, as caregivers are preoccupied with survival and suffering from psychosocial distress. Children and caregivers with disabilities need additional support. Adolescent girls are exposed to risks of sexual abuse, as they report travelling long distances to fetch household water..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-29
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-29
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 155.16 KB
more
Description: "This more comprehensive product now replaces the daily Flash Updates which were previously being issued by OCHA Myanmar on Cyclone Mocha. This Sit Rep is produced by OCHA in collaboration with the seven operating clusters and their sub-working groups in Myanmar. The humanitarian response section is not necessarily reflective of all humanitarian interventions undertaken on the ground but rather those voluntarily reported by partners. The next Sit Rep will be issued on or around 30 May 2023. HIGHLIGHTS • With the monsoon looming, the humanitarian community is in a race against time to respond to a shelter, water, sanitation and food emergency in areas most heavily affected by Cyclone Mocha that smashed Myanmar on 14 May. • Aid organizations have been delivering assistance where they have stocks and approval, but more supplies, wider access and increased funding are urgently needed to deliver an operation at-scale and meet needs across all communities. • Based on discussions in Nay Pyi Taw, a detailed two-week distribution plan has been submitted for approval, along with transportation plans for the movement of stocks within Myanmar and from outside the country. • The humanitarian community has launched a Flash Appeal seeking $333 million to provide assistance to 1.6 million people affected by Cyclone Mocha. Immediate funding is crucial to support vulnerable populations in the hardest-hit zones across Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin. • Shelter and other relief items are being distributed where access is possible with 7,700 households reached so far across 8 townships in Rakhine, while cash assistance for shelter repairs has been distributed in the Northwest. • Distribution of drinking water and hygiene kits has also continued. More than 30,000 litres of drinking water have been distributed to affected villages and displacement camps and sites in Rakhine over the past few days, while more than 4,500 affected households in at least six townships in Chin and Magway are already being provided with hygiene kits. Increased cases of Acute Watery Diarrhoea (AWD) have already been recorded. • Immediate assistance is needed to provide food to vulnerable populations. So far since the cyclone, at least 107,000 people have been reached with food support by WFP across all communities in Rakhine alone. In Rakhine in total, more than 2,000 metric tons of rice and mixed food commodities and 111 metric tons of high energy biscuits have been distributed to food insecure people since the cyclone. • Distributions have also been underway in the Northwest. The agriculture and fishery sectors have been badly hit, causing a severe loss of assets crucial for livelihoods and posing a longer-term threat to food security. • Health services are being provided, but damaged infrastructure poses challenges. Many township hospital buildings, IDP camp clinics, and rural health centers have been impacted, Mobile health teams are operating where they can. • Explosive ordnance (EO), loss of civil documentation, mental health, overcrowding, and separation of children from caregivers are significant protection issues. Partners are delivering EO safety messages, conducting reunifications, establishing child-friendly spaces, providing awareness-raising messages, and offering psychosocial support wherever possible. Continued efforts are needed to address these protection immediate safety and wellbeing concerns. SITUATION OVERVIEW Extremely Severe Cyclone Mocha made landfall in Myanmar’s Rakhine state on 14 May packing winds of 250 kmph as it approached the coast, making it one of the strongest cyclones on record to hit the country. The cyclone has devastated coastal areas, leaving hundreds of thousands of already vulnerable people without a roof over their heads with the monsoon just weeks away. The cyclone also brough heavy damage as it advanced inland bringing strong wind, heavy rain and flooding across areas in Chin, Sagaing, Magway and Kachin. An estimated 7.9 million people experienced winds in excess of 90km/h, with 3.4 million facing destructive winds over 120 km/h. The strength of shelters and pre-existing vulnerabilities are emerging as the key determining factors in the severity of impact and needs. Barely a home has escaped damage in the state capital Sittwe and in Rathedaung where the impact of the cyclone was strongest. An estimated 85 per cent of the shelters in IDP camps and sites are thought to have been destroyed. Many of those most severely affected are now living in temporary sites, in monasteries or in the open. A massive debris clearance and rebuilding effort has been underway across the impact zone since the cyclone with local authorities working to gradually reconnect telecommunications and electricity services particularly in the state capital Sittwe. Schools have been heavily affected, and efforts are underway to have learning facilities available for the start of the school term in June. Health facilities have also been badly damaged. In the Northwest, severe flooding affected more than 120,000 people across Chin, Sagaing, and Magway, with an estimated 150 villages and wards across 20 townships impacted. Infrastructure has been damaged and destroyed while floods have washed away animals, crops and personal belongings. Over 300 community learning centers were partially or totally damaged, with roofs ripped off and walls broken. Cyclone Mocha also significantly impacted the agriculture and fishery sectors across all affected areas and communities, causing a severe loss of assets crucial for livelihoods. Furthermore, the cyclone exacerbated pre-existing humanitarian needs arising from years of conflict, displacement, statelessness, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic instability. Post-cyclone, markets have reopened but with surging prices for basic shelter materials and food, straining the already impoverished population. Local communities have begun clearing debris and cleaning up, and telecommunications are gradually stabilizing. Despite access issues, ongoing conflict, and communications difficulties, humanitarian partners with access have scaled-up their support, providing critical and lifesaving assistance to affected communities in Rakhine, Chin, Magway and Sagaing, as well as Kachin..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-05-27
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-27
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 359.91 KB
more
Description: "Highlights Rehabilitation and cleaning up debris from schools and learning centres is a high priority to ensure readiness for school re-opening, planned for early June, as it is reported that 1,380 basic education schools across 17 townships of Rakhine have been affected. Cyclone Mocha badly damaged Rakhine markets, resulting in significant increases in the price of essential food, non-food items, and services. UNICEF and partners reached 31,725 affected population through distribution of family hygiene kits, soaps, buckets, jerry cans, and water purification sachets and water trucking for most affected villages in Rakhine. The catastrophic Cyclone Mocha had a devastating impact in Chin State, affecting 1813 households, 18 religious’ structures, and 9 educational institutions in Matupi, Hakha, Kanpalet, Palettwa, Mindat, Falam, Thantlang and Tedim. In the Northwest, UNICEF is working with implementing partners on the distribution of essential learning package kits (5,440 sets) and short-term home-based learning materials (2,472 sets) to IDP camps affected by the cyclone and armed conflicts. Situation in Numbers 3.4 million people in affected areas (OCHA) 1.6 million people targeted for humanitarian assistance (OCHA) 500,000 new additional caseload (OCHA) Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs The humanitarian situation in regions and states affected by Cyclone Mocha continues to be a concern, as a number of affected sectors will have an impact on children’s survival, wellbeing and development. The latest assessments from the Market Analysis Unit (MAU) indicate that Cyclone Mocha badly damaged Rakhine markets, resulting in significant increases in the price of essential food, non-food items, and services. In Sittwe, electrical outages have impacted water supply and water pumps. Prices for water hand- pumps has doubled, rising from 42,000 MMK (USD 14) prior to the cyclone to 83,000 MMK (USD 28) afterward. The price of distilled water has increased by 17 per cent, rising from 600 MMK/20L (0.2 USD/20L) to 700 MMK/20L (0.24 USD/20L). Many households are struggling to access purified bottled water due to the rising cost. In Mrauk-U’s main market, vendors interviewed reported fewer inventory losses than vendors in Sittwe. Prices for hygiene-related items were fairly stable in Mrauk-U, although soap prices were up 25 per cent. In Ponnagyun, prices of non-food items, both for shelter and hygiene products, increased sharply. Blanket prices were up 17 per cent, while those for plastic tarps were up 60 per cent and prices for mosquito nets have doubled. Jerry cans were not available. Toothpaste prices were up 19 per cent, while soap was up 50 per cent and sanitary pad prices were stable. Assessments from the Market Analysis Unit indicate that the implementation of large-scale cash transfer programmes should be undertaken with caution due to supply constraints and potential market impacts. Cash assistance can be effective in Sittwe, Mrauk-U and Ponnagyun, where markets are damaged but still functional. Humanitarian cash assistance will likely grow more important in the coming weeks as regional supply chains recover. In Rakhine, 1,380 basic education schools across 17 townships of Rakhine have been affected. The number of children estimated in the need of education support stands at about 335,000. In addition, teachers and volunteer teachers have had their homes partially or destroyed and most of the affected population are now living in monasteries and with relatives. It has been challenging to get safe spaces and shade to deliver preventive and curative nutrition services, especially for Sittwe, Pauktaw and Kyauktaw areas. Temporary tents are urgently needed to deliver nutrition services to vulnerable people in shade and safe spaces. The catastrophic Cyclone Mocha cyclone had a devastating impact in Chin State, affecting 1,813 households, 18 religious structures, and 9 educational institutions in Matupi, Hakha, Kanpalet, Palettwa, Mindat, Falam, Thantlang and Tedim..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-27
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-27
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 332.67 KB
more
Description: "Executive Summary: Myanmar is likely to be in a protracted state of crisis for some time. Consequently, the crisis is also very likely to derail the steady progress the country was making in sustained high GDP growth, poverty reduction, creation of employment including that of women, increasing exports and overall, getting closer to achieving many of the SDGs. Myanmar will be challenged in arresting the rising vulnerabilities of the people from lost jobs and lost or diminished livelihoods, providing widespread access to basic services and social safety nets, creating the necessary fiscal space, and curbing the conflict spreading throughout the country resulting in growing insecurity of civilians. The crisis is posing a serious, and possibly generational threat to the well-being of the people. With extremely limited domestic and international resources available, and an extremely complex and dynamic operating context, the challenge is to try to understand the nature and pace of the southward slide of all conceivable metrics of progress and determine how best to target interventions for maximum impact. The main purpose of this empirical analysis is to provide that information base. First from 2005-2017 – a period of high progress at the national level and well-captured by comprehensive datasets – followed by estimates of regression post 2020, due to the crises based on smaller but frequent surveys in the absence of any comprehensive national level datasets..."
Source/publisher: UN Development Programme (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-24
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-24
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 3.48 MB (62 pages) - Original version
more
Description: "Highlights • It is estimated that 3.4 million people live in the areas highly impacted by Cyclone Mocha, hit by >120km/h wind speeds. • Analysis conducted by the Mine Action Area of Responsibility shows that 60 per cent of landmine incidents reported (first quarter of 2023) were in areas affected by Cyclone Mocha, and 90 per cent of the incidents were in the red zone (where winds of over 120km/h were recorded). This implies high risks of landmines/unexploded ordinance contamination in cyclone-affected areas, creating a potential threat to populations and to relief and recovery efforts. • UNICEF and partners provided 50 recreational kits and three child protection kits to the cyclone-affected villages of Buthidaung and Maungdaw. Fifty Child Friendly Spaces have been set up, providing psychosocial support to 520 children affected by Cyclone Mocha. Situation in Numbers 3.4 million people In affected area (OCHA) 1.6 million people targeted for humanitarian assistance (OCHA) 500,000 New additional caseload (OCHA) Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs Sittwe and Rathedaung Townships are the most impacted by cyclone. Power lines are severely damaged in both Sittwe and Rathedaung Townships, which is also disrupting the water supply systems. The camps and shelters for people previously displaced by conflict in Maungdaw, Buthidaung Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw townships have also been severely impacted. In Rakhine, more than 100 temporary learning spaces were damaged, including with roofs being blown off, collapsed walls and fallen pillars. It is estimated that about 113 schools in Sittwe Township have been totally or partially destroyed, while around 80 per cent of schools in Buthidaung Township have been affected by the cyclone. An increase in the number of unaccompanied children in Rakhine has been reported. WASH, health, nutrition and child protection are the priority needs of the affected people. In the Northwest, severe flooding has affected more than 120,000 people in Chin, Sagaing and Magway. An estimated 150 villages and wards in 20 townships were affected, with the damage ranging from partially or fully destroyed infrastructure to floods having swept away animals and personal belongings in agricultural fields. Over 300 community learning centers were partially or totally damaged, with roofs ripped off and walls broken..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-24
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-24
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 349.22 KB
more
Description: "Situation Overview This multi-sectoral Flash Appeal targets approximately 1.6 million people affected by cyclone Mocha and its aftermath across five areas of Myanmar – Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway and Kachin. A total of US$333 million is urgently required for this response plan to address needs in areas in all communities affected by the cyclone and its aftermath. The cyclone and the flooding that followed hit an area of high pre-existing vulnerability, with large numbers of displaced, returned, stateless and crisisaffected people, who were already targeted for support under the existing 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP). Thus, the financial requirement for this Flash Appeal includes some activities originally costed under the 2023 HRP that can now be pivoted to support people affected by the cyclone. It also identifies completely new or scaled-up activities that will support the cyclone response to the existing HRP target populations, as well as costing support to entirely new people with needs as a result of the disaster across all communities. Communities and humanitarian responders are now in a race against time to implement the response outlined with the monsoon imminent and hundreds of thousands of people either homeless or living in damaged shelters with limited access to clean water. A dramatic scale-up of funding is imperative to support the activities outlined given the scale of the disaster and the dire existing funding gap for the HRP (10 per cent funded). The day before the cyclone, the Humanitarian Coordinator initiated a $2m Reserve Allocation under the Myanmar Humanitarian Fund to kick-start procurement of supplies and cash responses to affected people. On 18 May, the Emergency Relief Coordinator also approved a $10m allocation under the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) Rapid Response window to support the Humanitarian Country Team to expand operations. However, much more support is needed to deliver a disaster response at-scale. This plan outlines immediate responses to be implemented during the initial months after the cyclone. The HCT may decide to revise this appeal once more information becomes available or may choose to fold these activities into a wider HRP revision at a later date. Context and Needs Overview Extremely Severe Cyclone Mocha hit Myanmar’s Rakhine with brutal force on 14 May. One of the strongest cyclones ever recorded in Myanmar, the eye made landfall between Cox’s Bazaar and Kyaukpyu township, approaching the coast with maximum sustained winds of around 250 km/h and wind gusts of up to 305 km/h, before continuing inland and impacting communities with heavy rain and winds on 15 May. This appeal addresses needs generated by the cyclone and its aftermath in communities across five states and regions – Rakhine, Chin, Sagaing, Magway and Kachin. An estimated 7.9 million people live in areas that experienced winds in excess of 90kmph during the cyclone. Of these, 3.4 million faced very destructive winds of more than 120 kmph, placing them at very high risk given the poor shelters in these locations and their pre-existing vulnerabilities. Heavy rainfall, storm surge and strong winds associated with the cyclone caused widespread damage across affected locations, including flooding in low-lying areas of Rakhine, particularly in and around the state capital, Sittwe, as well as the townships of Kyauktaw, Maungdaw, Pauktaw, Ponnagyun, and Rathedaung. Almost all buildings in Sittwe and Rathedaung have suffered damage, leaving hundreds of thousands of people either homeless or living in damaged houses. Significant damage has been suffered by displacement camps, where long houses were left in splinters and access bridges have been washed away. Extensive areas of farming land and coastal areas have been affected, with severe losses of assets that are crucial for the agriculture and fishery sectors. The destruction of the local fishing fleet and heavy loss of agricultural inputs will have serious implications on livelihoods and are likely to see the adoption of negative coping strategies in the months ahead. As the weather system moved inland into the country’s Northwest and Northeast, continuous heavy rain caused flooding in townships in Magway where the Ayeyarwady River overflowed. In Chin, houses were reportedly damaged or destroyed. In Magway and Sagaing, floodwaters reportedly damaged infrastructure and agricultural fields and washed away livestock and personal belongings. Later, in Waingmaw Township in Kachin, shelters were damaged in Shanjai, which is home to more than 1,000 displaced people, as well as in the Maga Yang/Sha It Yang, Hka Shau, and Pajau/Janmai displacement camps. Significant damage has been reported to public infrastructure in all affected areas, including hospitals, health centres, banks, schools, bridges, and religious buildings. Water systems, sanitation facilities, water supply infrastructure and latrines have also been affected, reducing access to safe drinking water and basic hygiene services, and increasing the risk of outbreaks of water-borne disease. Although most markets have re-opened, the soaring prices of basic shelter materials needed for rebuilding, including tarpaulins, metal sheeting, and nails, has made this task unaffordable for most affected people in these very impoverished parts of the country. Food costs have also spiked in many locations, putting a strain on households that were already living on the edge of survival. For example, the price of one kilogram of rice in Mrauk-U township has increased from MMK 1,300 ($0.62) before the cyclone to MMK 1,500 ($0.71) one week after the disaster. Even prior to the cyclone, the affected areas were characterized by heavy humanitarian needs resulting from years of conflict, displacement, statelessness, COVID-19, and economic instability. This new disaster has now added a devastating new dimension to the humanitarian situation facing people in the country’s west. Preparedness and early response The Myanmar Humanitarian Emergency Response Preparedness Plan was activated at the national and sub-national levels ahead of the cyclone making landfall. Humanitarian organisations ramped up their preparedness efforts, pre-positioned personnel and supplies wherever possible, and disseminated safety messages to affected areas. Since the cyclone hit, humanitarian personnel have been working to gauge the full impact of the disaster on affected people through a series of field missions and early support where they had permission to start distributions particularly of food, non-food items (NFIs), shelter and hygiene items. Based on discussions in Nay Pyi Taw, a detailed two-week distribution plan will soon be shared for approval, outlining further support that is ready to be provided to across all affected communities in Rakhine and Chin. Efforts are also underway to move more supplies to the impact zone from both Ya ngon and various locations outside the country. The national Natural Disaster Management Committee was activated in Nay Pyi Taw before the cyclone and local authorities carried out evacuations in high-risk areas. In areas under the control of the State Administration Council (SAC), local authorities deployed personnel to start initiating debris clearance, restore communications and begin distributions. The ASEAN Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA) deployed staff to support the Emergency Operations Centre in Nay Pyi Taw before the cyclone hit. A 14 member ASEAN Emergency Response and Assessment Team (ERAT) has been deployed to Rakhine to support the response by the Department of Disaster Management (DDM). The first three plane loads of AHA shelter supplies arrived in Myanmar on 21 May and were handed over to DDM for distribution in affected areas. OCHA continues to coordinate closely with AHA on the response. In areas outside SAC control, various ethnic and resistance groups have been measuring the impact in affected communities and delivering assistance to the extent of their resources and access. Civil society organizations and religious networks are working to support affected communities. Communities themselves have also swung into action, clearing debris from blocked roads, and providing shelter to those who have lost their homes..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-05-23
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-23
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 4.12 MB (30 pages) - Original version
more
Description: "Highlights Advocacy for humanitarian access to affected populations continues and this remains a critical constraint in assessing the extent of humanitarian needs and in providing lifesaving assistance to the most vulnerable populations. Incoming reports indicate that across all affected areas, access to safe drinking water is a critical priority due to the damage caused to water supply infrastructure. In Rakhine, at least 32 nutrition infrastructure and nutrition-related spaces are severely damaged. In the Northwest, around 30 schools are reported to be damaged, Life-saving nutrition supplies, including Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), has been provided to 77 children with severe acute malnutrition. The UNICEF funding situation is critical: to date the Myanmar 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal for USD 169.6 million is only 11.8 per cent funded. Situation in Numbers 3.2 million people within the areas impacted by the cyclone are most vulnerable and likely to have humanitarian needs (OCHA) This includes an estimated: 1.12 million children 0-17 years Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs There is no significant change in the access situation as no Travel Authorisation approvals have been granted in Rakhine State and in the Northwest of the country affected by Cyclone Mocha. In Rakhine, deaths have been reported, including of children and pregnant women. IDP communities in northern Rakhine state have been relocated to schools as temporary shelters. There is an urgent need for latrines due to the increased number of people relocated. Access to safe drinking water is an urgent priority, along with roofing for shelters, health services and WASH facilities. Mobile medical assistance has been initiated in some central Rakhine State townships, but harder-to-reach villages have yet to receive support. As many as 32 nutrition infrastructure and nutrition- related spaces (including breast-feeding spaces, antenatal support services and treatment centres) are severely damaged. The airport reopened to commercial flights today. The Yangon – Sittwe road has been re-opened to trucks today and passenger buses from Yangon have also resumed. Many reports indicate damage to WASH infrastructure. The latrine superstructures in Rakhine camps have been substantially damaged and, in several locations, flooding is reported to have rendered the facilities dysfunctional. Similarly, heavy damage to water supply infrastructure has been reported, and the storm surge flooded water supply ponds, making the water saline. In the Northwest, shelter and water supply are the first priority needs, followed by food security. Electricity has been recovered in most of the urban areas of Sagaing and Chin. Telecommunication remains a major challenge for collecting information. It was reported that 30 schools have been damaged in Chin State. A total of 21 townships (17 townships in Rakhine State and four townships in Chin State) have been declared as disaster (cyclone) affected areas by the authorities..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-19
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-19
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 161.93 KB
more
Description: "Highlights: • Four days after Cyclone Mocha made landfall in Myanmar it is still extremely challenging to get information on the magnitude of the disaster and the number of children and women affected by the crisis. • Reports of damaged critical infrastructure, including roads, houses, schools and hospitals are reported, as well as intermittent or total power outages. Telecommunications and internet connectivity continue to be major challenges. • There are concerns about contamination of water sources as a result of storm surges, landslides and flooding in some of the impacted locations. • Drinking water, shelter, health and food have been consistently identified as priorities by communities consulted. • The UNICEF funding situation is critical: to date the Myanmar 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal for USD 169.6 million is only 11.8 per cent funded. Situation in Numbers 5.4 million people are estimated to have been in the path of the cyclone across Rakhine and the Northwest (OCHA) 3.2 million people are most vulnerable and likely to have humanitarian needs (OCHA) Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs The humanitarian community continues to face challenges in accessing information and in getting approval for travel authorisation to conduct needs assessments and reach affected populations with emergency relief. Network connection and intermittent electricity continue to be major challenges to communicating with partners across the affected areas. In Northwest, humanitarian access and information availability are main challenges to reach to beneficiaries. Major power lines have been damaged in the west and northeast townships of Magway (Pakokku, Seikphyu, Salin, Yaesagyo, Pauk, Myaing, Saw and Kantkaw) areas. As a result, electricity is not expected to be restored before 19 May 2023. In Rakhine, many infrastructures are reportedly damaged including public services – electricity, telecommunications, schools, hospitals and connectivity continues to be a major challenge. The latest information identified serious damage to at least 13 camps (out of 21) in Rakhine. It is estimated that 80% of school infrastructure is partially/totally damaged with roofs ripped off and damaged/collapsed walls. Schools reopening in Rakhine in June is therefore in question. Many teachers and volunteer teachers are also directly impacted and have had their homes partially or destroyed. Concerns have also been raised over the possibility that the destruction caused by the cyclone in the camps for displaced populations (displaced prior to the cyclone) may lead authorities to push individuals to return to their places of origin as part of an effort to close down camps. In term of the response, recommendations for in-kind assistance seems to be more relevant than cash, according to the community voices, as commodity prices are rapidly rising..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-18
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-18
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 161.93 KB
more
Description: "Highlights Information on the impact of the cyclone in Myanmar is gradually becoming available, confirming significant levels of destruction in the locations where the cyclone has passed. In Rakhine, initial reports indicate major damage to shelters, latrines (structures, flooding in some camps) and contamination of water sources (though hand pumps are functioning). Health services are reported to be non-functioning and the hospital which serves the camps has been badly damaged. Taing Nyo IDP site in Mrauk-U, one of the largest, is reported to be seriously affected. In the Northwest, heavy damage has been reported in Magway and Sagaing, as well as in Chin, Bago and Ayeyarwaddy UNICEF, in coordination with OCHA and other humanitarian organisations, is still working to assess the situation and needs on the ground. Clearance for rapid needs assessments in the field is still pending approval of Travel authorisation. The UNICEF funding situation is critical: to date the Myanmar 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal for USD 169.6 million is only 11.8 per cent funded. Situation in Numbers 16 million people potentially exposed to Cyclone Mocha, including over 1.2 million already internally displaced (UNOSAT/UNITAR, 13 May 2023) 5.6 million children potentially exposed to Cyclone Mocha 8 States/Regions potentially cyclone-affected: Rakhine, Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, Ayeyarwady, Chin, Bago and Naypyitaw (UNOSAT/UNITAR, 13 May 2023) Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs As information is beginning to reach the humanitarian community, emerging priority needs are for shelter, drinking water, latrine reconstruction / repair, and food due to the limited functionality of markets. In the Northwest, an estimated 22,209 people from 34 villages in 2 townships of Sagaing, and 2,462 people from 2 townships of Magway have been evacuated /relocated. Massive damages are reported in Magway and Sagaing, as well as in Chin, Bago and Ayeyarwaddy. In the northern areas of Magway and Sagaing, electricity has been intermittent since Monday 14 May and around 3,676 houses partially or fully damaged in 98 villages in Magway region due to flash flooding and heavy rains. Drinking water is reported as a critical issue in downtown Sittwe, as due to the electricity cuts the municipal water supply is not operating. The roofs of 724 houses, 9 schools and 10 churches were reported to have blown off and be partially or fully damaged due to strong winds in Chin state. In northern Rakhine state, Maungdaw, electricity and telecommunication are not yet restored. A number of causalities were reported due to damage/collapse of temporary buildings. Some initial reports indicate that significant damage has been incurred in all the Sittwe camps, with shelters and latrines damaged . UNICEF Field Office team has been communicating with partners and collecting information on the areas and numbers of people affected by the cyclone. Passenger ferries / boats began arriving in Sittwe this morning from Mrauk U. Telecommunication across Rakhine remains a challenge due to the severe damage to the main telecoms tower during the cyclone. UNICEF partner reported that: in Mrauk-U 25-40% building were damaged; one whole village – Nge Swal destroyed with no place for people to take shelter. Sittwe airport remains closed for commercial flights. The road between Mrauk U and Sittwe is operational for vehicles but not trucks (according to UNDSS). Opening the road from Yangon to Sittwe is being prioritized by authorities. The status of road conditions from Yangon to Mrauk U are still to be confirmed. The jetty area in Sittwe has some damage, but the is partially open and movement by boat is possible. The UNICEF office in Sittwe suffered some additional rain damage overnight due to broken windows. UNICEF staff will work from the OCHA office as an interim measure while a temporary office is being identified. Cleaning and moving of supplies from the damaged should be completed on 17 May. UNICEF stocks in the Maungdaw warehouse are in good condition..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-17
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-17
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 263.81 KB
more
Description: "Situation in Numbers 5,600,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance 17,600,000 people in need (HRP 2023) 1,493,100 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 (UNHCR) 53,200 People displaced to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 328,000 people living in protracted displacement before February 2021 Highlights UNICEF joined an inter-agency mission to Pinlaung township, Shan State,distributing WASH supplies to more than 4,000 displaced people (1,200 households). 4,100 clean delivery kits and 676 community newborn kits were also distributed to assist the safe delivery and care of babies. UNICEF efforts to support health care service programmes continue to be severely affected by long delays in obtaining official customs clearance of medical supplies and commodities. 302 casualties of landmines and other explosive remnants of war, of which were 21% children, have been reported as of the end of the first quarter of 2023. UNICEF has secured US $19.83 million to date, representing 11.8 per cent of its 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal. Funding Overview and Partnerships UNICEF Myanmar is appealing for US $169.6 million in 2023 to address the needs of 2.8 million people, including an estimated 1.9 million children. During the reporting period, UNICEF secured $19.83 million, or 11.8 per cent of its 2023 HAC appeal. UNICEF has received this generous support from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States Fund for UNICEF, the Humanitarian Aid Department of the European Commission (ECHO), the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the Government of Norway, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the World Health Organization (WHO), Gavi the vaccine alliance and through UNICEF’s Global Humanitarian Thematic Funding. UNICEF and its partners continue to deliver much-needed services covering nutrition, health, HIV/AIDS, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education, child protection, gender-based violence in emergencies, protection against sexual exploitation and abuse, social protection and cash-based programming, social behaviour change (SBC), accountability to affected populations (AAP), humanitarian leadership and cluster coordination. Although UNICE secured almost 12 per cent of HAC appeal, the funding gap of 88 per cent is severely affecting the capacity to respond. Without these resources, targeted populations, especially children, who need basic social services will not be able to receive assistance. UNICEF continues resource mobilization to have more support and expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions to supporting the children of Myanmar. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs Conflict intensified mainly in the southeast, northwest and Kachin states and the total number of people displaced internally is over 1.8 million, including 1.5 million newly displaced after February 2021. More than 50 per cent of new displacements are in the northwest with an estimated 760,300 people displaced in Sagaing region and 200,000 in Magway region where there were reports of frequent and intensified clashes, airstrikes, destruction of property and people being arrested and detained by Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF). The number of children on the move continues to increase, especially in the southeast and northwest. On 11 April, air attacks by the MAF in Kanbulu Township, Sagaing, reportedly killed more than 170 people, including women and children.The security situation remains fragile in the southeast with indiscriminate attacks, escalating armed clashes using heavy artillery and airstrikes. A total of 450,000 are estimated to be displaced across Kayin, Kayah, Mon, Tanintharyi, Bago East and Shan South. In early April, UNICEF joined the inter-agency Mission to Pinlaung township, Shan State and distributed WASH supplies to more than 4,000 people from 1,200 displaced households in 20 camps. In Kachin, increased fighting was reported in Hpakant, Shwegu, Bhamo and Waing Maw townships, where there have been 15,300 newly displaced people since February 2021 and as well as 90,000 long-term displaced people. The basic level of public services provision has been disrupted, with unmet humanitarian needs. In Rakhine, water scarcity and delays in obtaining travel authorizations are the major issues. According to the recent monitoring of landmine and explosive remnants of war (ERW) incidents during the first quarter of 2023, a total of 302 causalities with of which 21 per cent were children have been reported nationwide. This figure represents 77 per cent of total causalities reported in 2022 (390 reported). Humanitarian access continues to deteriorate because of bureaucracy, multiple checkpoints, movement restrictions, conflicts and roadblocks due to armed clashes. The supply chain management in the country continues to face barriers and unprecedented upheavals, mainly for imported supplies earmarked for health and nutrition programmes which are critically important. The Country Office is facing prolonged delays in obtaining Customs clearance for those supplies and shipments have been detained at the border and the airport for two years. There are 77 cases, with a total value of US$4.4 million, pending approval for tax exemption certificates to facilitate Customs clearance. Most of these supplies are medicines/pharmaceuticals, hospital equipment and food supplements for malnourished children. The office is expected to pay heavy charges for their storage, and the use-by dates for some items are expected to expire before the end of the year. In-country logistics are another problem. The increased restrictions to travel are causing delays in distributing supplies to some parts of the country which, in turn, are piling more pressure on the supply chain. The restrictions hinge on the demands from the authorities to be given full control of the supplies. The Country Office sees several risks in complying with this and is yet to solicit the views/feedback from the donors..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-05-12
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-12
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 456.4 KB
more
Description: "In late-February / early-March the MAU conducted a third-round survey of displaced households in Chin State to understand challenges they face. The study is based on a probability sample representing 1900 households currently or previously enrolled in cash assistance programs. MAU reports are available online at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit. KEY FINDINGS • The proportion of households in displaced sites like schoolhouses increased slightly in recent months; • One-third of households surveyed had returned or resettled as of early-March, up from 21% in December; • Security, shelter and mobility grew worse for many households between December and March; • Conditions like cleanliness and space grew worse for some households in recent months; • Fewer households had access to most products in March than in December, such as vegetables and meat; • Fewer households used cash assistance or savings to buy food, and access to work remained poor for most; • More recipients of remittances used informal channels, and use of formal channels declined; • Nearly all food insecurity indicators worsened, although nutrition appeared to improve in households with small children or pregnant / breastfeeding women..."
Source/publisher: Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-05-11
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-10
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 4.52 MB
more
Description: "Nicolas Salem-Gervais, Summer Aung, Amber Spreelung, Ja Seng, Jung Benatar, and Chan* outline the evolving language-in-education landscape following the coup, within and beyond military-controlled territory in Part 2 of a 2-part post. *Some authors used pseudonyms for security purposes. Read Part 1. In addition to spurring the partial collapse of the state education system and yielding a confusing language-in-education policy from the SAC (see Part 1), the 2021 military coup has profoundly affected the education landscape outside military-controlled schools and territories, notably in its linguistic dimension. The NUG has indeed committed to a Federal Democracy Education Policy and non-state education systems and schools have been expanding or (re)appearing. In the following sections, we try to outline the NUG’s language-in-education policy, before moving on to three brief case studies. An evolving language-in-education landscape, amidst conflict Seemingly inspired to some extent by the National Network for Education Reform pre-coup proposals and in line with the Federal Democracy Charter, the NUG has reiterated its pledge to mother-tongue based multilingual education (MTB-MLE) formulated in its (draft) Federal Democracy Education Policy released in September 2021 (and which should be transformed into a more final document in the near future). This policy entails a trilingual system (mother tongue, national language, international language) in primary and middle schools. This model, in comparison to what was being deployed under previous governments, is thus much more ambitious, with extensively documented, multiple and genuine potential benefits, but also a number of tradeoffs and/or challenges to deal with, particularly in the most linguistically heterogeneous regions. With federalism as a core inspiration, the (draft) Federal Democracy Education Policy entails a great deal of decentralization, with school education councils being in charge to decide, among other things, the language(s) of instruction, and with the possibility for each township and each ethnic region within a Region or State to develop local curricula in accordance with their respective State/Region framework and with the approval of the State/Region Education Council. Following the coup, pro-revolution higher education institutions such as Spring University Myanmar have been offering online classes for learning several ethnic languages (including Mon, Tai Long, Sgaw and West Pwo Karen, Jinghpaw, Rakhine and Tedim Chin). At the basic education level, multiple education programs, some of them directly accredited or supported by the NUG, have come to provide “interim education” (ကြားကာလပညာရေး) in “people’s schools” (ပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်း), among other administrative functions, in regions where the military-controlled state administration has collapsed, which include large parts of Sagaing and Magway Regions. In ethnic minority regions, these education programs rely to different extents on local languages, with both educational and ethnic identity mobilization objectives – in alignment with the perspectives articulated in the Federal Democracy Charter and the Federal Democracy Education Policy – amidst a dramatically disrupted political context and a daily reality marked by conflict, displacement, threats of violence, and often an extremely acute lack of resources. The sections that follow aim at providing a brief outline of some of the many significant language-in-education post-coup developments. The three case-studies – Kayah/Karenni, Chin and Kachin States – have been selected because of their relevance to our perspectives and the availability, access, and interest of researchers in our team. Other key geographies/organizations are not included here, and a comprehensive understanding of the multiple, complex, and rapidly evolving dynamics taking place in often dramatically difficult contexts is beyond the scope and ambitions of this post. Kayah/Karenni State Kayah (Karenni) State has been hit extremely hard by post-coup armed conflict, with up to two-thirds of its population displaced by the crackdown on resistance groups as the military is striving to secure the main roads. According to the Karenni Civil Society Network’s April 2023 figures, since the coup more than 200,000 people in Kayah State have become IDPs, over 1,100 have been killed, arrested or injured, and more than 2,600 CDM education staff have been dismissed. In multiple instances, schools have been directly targeted by military attacks, including airstrikes. The number of students enrolled in Kayah’s State government schools has plummeted in comparison with pre-coup figures, with SAC MoE statistics showing a drop of 87.5% in students sitting the matriculation exam in 2022-23 when compared with 2018-19. The vast majority of formal education in this state now appears to happen outside of schools controlled by the military regime. Rather, provision occurs through schooling led by CDMers and by Ethnic Basic Education Providers (EBEPs), in alignment with the perspective of a federal education as articulated by the NUG but often operating independently of the NUG. Kayah/Karenni State is one of the many ethnolinguistically diverse regions of Myanmar: a total of nine languages (Kayah, Kayan, Kayaw, Gaybar, Yintelay, Manumanaw, as well as Tai Long, Sgaw Karen and Pa-o) were being introduced as subjects in its government schools in 2019-20 as part of the local curriculum. As elsewhere, this diversity remains one of the key challenges in the post-coup context, and the realization of an inclusive Karenni identity has been set as a priority by the Karenni State Consultative Council, a revolutionary body formed in April 2021 that works in partnership with the NUG and National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC). Amidst the partial collapse of State administration and a new impetus for a federal education system since the coup, several networks of schools using different combinations of languages have been operating in the midst of conflict and forced displacement, although many face an acute lack of basic school supplies. In townships such as Demoso, community schools run by CDMers are seeking support from local and national resistance organizations, and the Karenni Education Department (KnED) has expanded its network of schools while also developing a MTB-MLE approach in the Karenni/Kayah language. Within interim community-based schools, lessons inconsistent with Federal Democracy — History first and foremost — are being omitted, and a Karenni National History book was finalized in September 2022. Similarly, Kayan New Generation Youth (KNGY) has started to implement in 2022-23 a MTB-MLE program through a curriculum produced by the Central Kayan Literature and Culture Committee (using Pekon region’s main dialect, often considered of high status and adopted as the Kayan standard since the early 2000s). In addition to an education center with a strong focus on Karenni and English languages in eastern Demoso, a number of post-secondary options, such as Youth Academy College and New Horizon, have been working in partnership with Spring University Myanmar toward ongoing projects of creating Diploma programs. These higher education courses include local languages, cultures, and histories, although finding teachers for some of the local languages has constituted a challenge in the current context. New post-secondary education programs have also included a transnational focus, such as preparation courses towards Thai and international universities. Chin State Following staunch local resistance and the constitution of the Chin Defense Forces as early as March-April 2021, Chin State has also been extremely disrupted by the coup. Particularly hard-hit regions include Thantalang (see also here), Mindat, and bordering areas of Sagaing and Magway Regions. According to the Chin Human Rights Organization, two years after the coup a quarter of the state’s population has been displaced (including both refugees and IDPs). In addition to hundreds of deaths, close to 1,500 people have been arrested and over 2,000 houses and religious buildings have been destroyed; tens of thousands have fled to the neighboring Indian state of Mizoram, with reportedly thousands of children in government and private schools, as well as many out-of school children. Characterized by a sharp mountainous topography, Chin State (and its neighboring regions) is home to a great ethnolinguistic diversity, even by Myanmar’s standards: prior to the 2021 military coup, 24 languages and counting were in the process of being introduced as subjects in its government schools, while multiple and often challenging projects to select (or even create) one or several main/common languages were underway. This diversity remains one of the challenges to the mobilization of a common identity, yet the coup has also contributed to strengthening a sense of belonging to an overarching Chin nation. The Chin State administration and schooling system has collapsed to a significant extent outside of some major towns and roads. Township-level People’s Administration Bodies (PABs), in general alignment with the NUG’s federalist perspectives (but not under its direct authority), have taken over with associated education departments (some community schools also seem to operate independently). These local education systems run in extremely difficult conditions, with volunteer or quasi-volunteer (sometimes CDM) teachers in the context of an acute lack of resources, and deal with major security threats. In some cases, they operate both sides of the border with India: for instance, the Matupi township education committee runs 150 schools, some of which are located inside Mizoram, which lead towards the NUG’s Basic Education Completion Assessment (BECA). In terms of curriculum, these schools usually follow to some extent the national framework but with various degrees of adaptation to the local contexts. Local Chin languages tend to be included, both as subjects and “classroom languages” (oral media of instruction — a situation which is not new in Chin State). In some cases, most of the schooling seems to be conducted through local Chin languages, which is described as a very positive development by the newly established education administration, and with Burmese as a subject in primary schools. As the national history curriculum in its current version is perceived as irrelevant for Chin State and incompatible with federal education, ongoing projects also include the development of a Chin history curriculum, with 80% on the history of the Chin Nation (ချင်းပြည်ထောင်သမိုင်းကြောင်း) and 20% of local content (မိမိဒေသ သမိုင်းကြောင်း). Kachin State Experiencing conflict since 2011, Kachin State has also been profoundly disrupted by the coup and its consequences. The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), one of the Myanmar military’s most long standing and redoubtable opponents, has been largely aligned with the NUG’s federal perspectives. In the wake of the coup in 2021 and 2022, the KIO’s education system has experienced a major increase in the number of enrolled students from diverse ethno-linguistic backgrounds, which is not unlike the experiences of the Karen National Union’s (KNU) Karen Education and Culture Department (KECD). However, its model in terms of language-in-education (with, so far, Kachin language and culture as an additional subject alongside the national curriculum and as a “classroom language”) seems to have required less adaptation than KNU’s Karen-medium education system, which recently opened additional Karen language classes to help this new population of students overcome language challenges. Similar to the KNU, the KIO shelters CDMers from the education sector, who have become involved in a variety of online and in-person education projects. The graduates of KIO’s high schools can enroll in a number of higher education institutions, notably those located in its territory. This includes the newly opened Kachin State Comprehensive University, which was jointly established by the KIO, the NUG, and CDM teachers, and has recently held the first graduation ceremonies of programs in literary and scientific subjects. In Kachin State, the SAC, in line with previous military governments, has carried on with its divide and rule strategy (a practice itself largely rooted in Myanmar’s colonial past); other regional armed groups have different political stances and strategies vis-à-vis the junta. Some schools controlled by the military regime have been reopening in Kachin State, particularly in the more remote regions where alternatives are lacking and access to the internet is scarce (in addition to other challenges of alternative online schooling). Despite financial incentive, however, the extent of this reopening is limited and the schools’ educational standards often seem questionable. The Kachin Baptist Convention’s church-based education programs have been revived, retaking to some extent the role churches had between the early decades of the 20th century and the mid-1960s with full-time teaching. These schools tend to at least partially follow the (Burmese language) national curriculum, but some prefer a curriculum in English. Different combinations of Jinghpaw and other local languages are also used in these schools, which seem to gather children from very diverse populations. Other recent language-in-education developments in Kachin State include an increasing popularity of Chinese schools, which tend to be affordable and open academic, as well as at times professional, avenues towards Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China. Several Kachin National Schools (Myusha Jawng / Myu Shalat Jawng), which started before the coup, also run in urban centers and constitute an alternative to government education, using Jinghpaw and English as the main media of instruction. Amidst dramatic situations of conflict and with new impetus for an education in line with federalist perspectives, the coup has profoundly altered Myanmar’s education landscape, which more than ever resembles a battlefield. Regarding language-in-education policy, the SAC, in contrast with its communication in state-media, has made major legislative steps back in the schools under its control, which have experienced a severe drop in enrolment and attractivity (see Part 1). Meanwhile, non-state education systems and schools in Kayah/Karenni, Chin and Kachin States (and assuredly in other States/Regions) are largely integrating local languages and have been expanding or appearing, often in extremely precarious contexts, in general alignment with federalist perspective, and with various degrees of collaboration with the NUG. At a time of great disruption and great political uncertainties for Myanmar and its populations, one of the few predictions that seems safe to make is that education, ethnic identities and, at their intersection, language-in-education matters will remain among the core aspects of Myanmar’s longstanding and unresolved issues, and thereby one of the key components of any durable political solutions. This two-part article is dedicated to Mael Raynaud (1976-2022). It is part of a research project involving several organizations, inside and outside of Myanmar, including the Institut de Recherche sur l’Asie du Sud-Est Contemporaine (IRASEC), Mahidol University’s Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies (IHRP), and CASE. The six authors all work/study in the field of education, in very diverse positions and locations, inside and outside of Myanmar. We wish to warmly thank all the reviewers for their close readings and constructive comments..."
Creator/author:
Source/publisher: "Tea Circle" (Myanmar)
2023-05-09
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-09
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "Nicolas Salem-Gervais, Summer Aung, Amber Spreelung, Ja Seng, Jung Benatar, and Chan* outline the evolving language-in-education landscape following the coup, within and beyond military-controlled territory in Part 1 of a 2-part post. *Some authors used pseudonyms for security purposes. Education ranks high among the sectors most impacted by the 2021 military coup and its aftermath. Following a long history of involvement in Myanmar’s successive political struggles, scores of students and school and university teachers have been at the forefront of the protests and subsequent resistance movements, notably the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). Choosing to participate in the revolution either with their chalk (“မြေဖြူကိုင်ပြီးတော်လှန်မယ်”) or trading it for a gun (မြေဖြူကိုင်သည့် လက်မှသည် သေနတ်ကိုင်သည့် လက်အဖြစ်သို့), many have sacrificed their careers, their family life, their homes and even their lives to oppose the return of a military dictatorship. To a greater extent than at any time in Burma/Myanmar’s history, the education sector itself has become a battlefield. After two years of interruption in response to the Covid pandemic and the immediate repercussions of the coup, the State Administrative Council (SAC) has been attempting to reopen schools and universities, starting with the urban areas under its control. It has aimed for a return to “business as usual” despite an at least 40% drop in overall basic education student enrolments (the drop in matriculation exam enrolment, in 2022-23 as compared with 2019-20, is much steeper: around 83% according to official figures). Amidst the SAC’s official declarations repeatedly asserting the role of schooling in the fostering of core military values, such as “patriotism” and “discipline”, sending or not sending their children back to schools controlled by the military regime has been an extremely difficult choice for many, notably among low-income families. In contrast, the National Unity Government (NUG) has been striving to set-up a parallel, pro-revolution and progressive-leaning education system, of federalist inspiration, in the regions controlled by the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs) and other allied groups as well as online. In multiple instances, schools and education personnel have been struck by violent attacks by the military, and at times by other actors, resulting in injuries and deaths of both students and teachers, sometimes in unspeakable circumstances. Teachers working for NUG-affiliated schools have repeatedly been arrested, sometimes condemned to life sentences, and parents also risk prosecution under the Anti-Terrorism Act for enrolling their children in these schools. Predictably, these profound disruptions and climate of violence surrounding education often have disastrous consequences, including on children’s mental health. For many decades, Ethnic Basic Education Providers (EBEPs), which include some of the Ethnic Armed Organizations’ (EAOs) education departments as well as other and newly formed organizations (see Part 2), have been providing education and relying to different extents on their respective languages. In the post-coup context, the EAOs offer diverse and potentially shifting political stances vis-à-vis the junta and the NUG. Some of the major organizations, including the Karen National Union, Kachin Independence Organization, Karenni National Progressive Party, as well as the historical and newly formed Chin groups, are currently in conflict against the SAC. These EAOs, among those sometimes referred to as Ethnic Resistance Organization (EROs), are militarily aligned with the NUG (in accordance with the federalist perspectives it has put forward), actively involved in education (but with diverse levels of actual collaboration with the NUG’s Ministry of Education), and working to different extents with CDMers. Major legislative steps backward In this greatly disrupted context, where education is at the heart of battles between vastly different conceptions of the nation, the state and the society — and with the 2008 Constitution being void as far as the NUG and allied groups are concerned, — the SAC amended the 2014-2015 National Education Law in October 2022. This amendment entails, among other things, the nullification of articles allowing the formation of teachers and students’ unions (section 4(c) which was added in the 2015 version of the law, following the 2014 students protests), and the modification of the composition and prerogatives of the National Education (formerly “Policy”) Commission (sections 5 and 6). In terms of language-in-education policy, many observers also did not fail to notice major steps backward at the basic education level, firmly condemning them as evidence of the military’s Burmese chauvinism. Almost a decade ago, the promulgation of the 2014 National Education Law (which was amended in 2015) sparked controversy around several aspects of its content and was faced by reiterated demands for a proper mother tongue-based multilingual education (MTB-MLE) policy. Although debatable in many regards, these legislative developments were nonetheless part of a process, along with UNICEF work and advocacy for multilingual education, to noteworthy steps towards including ethnic minority languages and cultures in government schools in the late 2010s through some extent of decentralization to the States and Regions and including the development of local curricula. Although implementation was often slow, imperfect, and contingent upon many factors, this framework offered the possibility to teach ethnic minority languages as subjects in government schools a few periods every week and to use them as “classroom languages” (oral media of instruction — different from MTB-MLE) when relevant. The 2022 amendment to the National Education Law by the SAC, in addition to reducing the prerogatives of the regional governments in education (nullification of 49(f) granting them the freedom to administer educational matters), explicitly suppresses the possibility of using ethnic minority languages as “classroom languages” through the amendment of article 43(b), from: “If there is a need, an ethnic language can be used alongside Myanmar as a classroom language at the basic education level.” to: “Myanmar language shall be used as the classroom language at the basic education level.” Similarly, the amendment of article 44 unambiguously restricts the teaching of ethnic minority languages as subjects to the primary level (Grades 1-5), from: “In Divisions or States, teaching of ethnic languages and literature can be implemented by Division or State governments, starting at the primary level and gradually expanding (to higher grades). ” to: “Learning ethnic literature and languages in regions and states shall be undertaken at the basic education primary level under the relevant region or state government.” These major steps back towards a more monolingual and monolithic conception of language-in-education policy potentially have two sets of consequences: not only do they limit the usage of ethnic minority languages in government schools themselves, but they also hinder the possibilities of recognition and bridging with non-state ethnic education systems, which typically use their respective languages to a wider extent, as documented in several studies. Many non-state ethnic education systems are far from being on any kind of speaking terms with the military-controlled MoE at the moment, but some of the organizations which are not currently in open conflict may be wondering what the mid-to-long-term implications of such an amendment might be for them. This backwards shift in language inclusion must also be situated in the perspective of a national education system which does not seem on track to offer attractive perspectives in the foreseeable future, including in terms of the development of analytical skills and of recognition outside of Myanmar, while alternatives largely grounded in ethnic identity and often eager to connect with transnational/international avenues are developing in the border areas (see Part 2). Contradictory signals Interestingly, in parallel to this tightening legislative framework, the SAC has recently been communicating heartily regarding the teaching of ethnic minority languages in universities and in basic education schools, as well as the hiring and training of the Teaching Assistants (TA) and Language Teachers (LT) in charge of these subjects. In March 2021, the SAC chairman “instructed to appoint more TA/LT and provide decent salaries,” reiterating these instructions in September 2022. Ministry of Ethnic Affairs (MoEA) officials frequently include in their speeches the ubiquitous saying of warning against the “disappearance” of ethnic groups as a consequence of failing to protect their languages (စာပျောက်ရင် လူမျိုးပျောက်မယ် and variations around that formula). During the late months of 2022, short trainings for the improvements of these ethnic language teachers’ skills were organized in several States and Regions (including Karen, Kachin, Mon, Tanintharyi, Ayeyarwady, Magway and Yangon) with ceremonies held in the local Education Colleges and widely reported in military-controlled media. These were followed in late 2022 and early 2023 by public donations from the MoEA to some of the Literature and Culture Committees (LCCs, some of which may have been compelled to reluctantly participate), including in Mon State (see also here) and Bago Region, as well as other education ceremonies involving some of the LLCs and the regional authorities. Incidentally, perplexing articles (original here) have seemingly advocated for MTB-MLE and could be spotted in the state media for 2023 International Mother Language Day, underlining the contradictions between the SAC’s desire to project an image of inclusivity and actual legislative reforms under its rule. In 2017 and the following years until the Covid pandemic and the coup, the civilian government began a process of hiring more than 11,000 ethnic languages TAs and creating the opportunity for the matriculation exam holders among them to pursue their training in Education Colleges and to ultimately become full-fledged teachers. In each State and Region, the LCCs attached to each ethnic group were playing a central role in this process by designing the curricula, selecting the teachers, and training them. Although from many stakeholders’ standpoint the overall language-in-education policy was not going far enough, these developments were nonetheless generally perceived (see also here) as a noteworthy step forward, linking ethnic languages to job opportunities and increasing the proportion of teachers able to use and teach ethnic minority languages in government schools, with potentially genuine long-term educational and political benefits for the country. Critically, although the process was still young, some of the EAO’s education departments were involved in the development of their respective State local curricula. In the post-coup context, however, the SAC’s interest for ethnic languages teachers and willingness to appoint TAs belies other motives. In 2021, after an increase of their salaries, some of the TAs who did not choose to join CDM were promoted in order to “fill the gaps” and replace the missing workforce among primary school teachers. Late 2022 speeches in the Education Colleges suggest that the TAs could be perceived as a reserve of a (rather docile) workforce, constituted of individuals in often precarious positions who would be grateful for a substantial promotion. Wearing colorful ethnic costumes during the ceremonies as reported in the state media, these TAs not only contribute to illustrating the idea of an ethnically inclusive education system but may also be seen as a credible vehicle to convey the military’s national narrative into schooling. The reports of the trainings given to the TAs in Education Colleges seem to emphasize their role as a kind of civics (စာရိတ္တနှင့်ပြည်သူ့နီတိ) teacher in charge of upholding “Union spirit” (ပြည်ထောင်စုစိတ်ဓာတ်), “patriotism” (မျိုးချစ်စိတ်ဓာတ်), and the “unity of the national races” (တိုင်းရင်းသားစည်းလုံး ညီညွတ်ရေး), all of which have been core concepts of the central state, and particularly of the various military governments, for many decades. Some of these speeches even exhort the TAs to contribute to “အမျိုးစောင့်” (protecting/defending the race/religion), a concept commonly used by Buddhist and nationalist hardliners (probably understood as inclusive of all the “national races” in this case). Despite this communication and reiterated objectives in the state media, in practice the teaching of ethnic minority languages seems at best very unsystematic in the schools controlled by the military regime that have reopened. While the teaching of some ethnic languages in the schools under the SAC MoE has recently been the topic of bilateral negotiations in order to be more systematic (and possibly going beyond the primary level in some regions), elsewhere the interruption of education due to the pandemic and CDM in reaction to the coup, as well as delayed salaries for the TAs, have often led to the disappearance of local languages classes. Overall, the opportunistic prioritization of short-sighted political benefits, including the desire to hold elections for which the SAC needs the participation of a credible number of ethnic parties, seems to be at odds with the military’s monolithic conception of the Myanmar nation. This contradiction is also found in the SAC’s language-in-education policy, which is rather confusing: a desire to seize upon previous governments’ reforms to project an image of inclusivity in its political communication; a drive towards using ethnic language teachers to instill the military’s values and conception of the nation in the students’ heads; the granting of privileges to groups willing to negotiate with the military in the frame of what resembles a classic divide-and-rule strategy; but also decisive legislative steps backward and very unsystematic teaching of ethnic minority languages in the schools controlled by the junta MoE. Meanwhile, in large chunks of the country’s territory, non-state education systems, largely relying on local languages, have been expanding or have appeared since the coup (see Part 2). This two-part article is dedicated to Mael Raynaud (1976-2022). It is part of a research project involving several organizations, operating inside and outside of Myanmar, including the Institut de Recherche sur l’Asie du Sud-Est Contemporaine (IRASEC), Mahidol University’s Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies (IHRP), and CASE. The six authors all work/study in the field of education, in very diverse positions and locations, inside and outside of Myanmar. We wish to warmly thank all the reviewers for their close readings and constructive comments..."
Source/publisher: "Tea Circle" (Myanmar)
2023-05-08
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-08
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 30 April, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of May 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Ongoing hostilities across Myanmar continue to endanger civilians, increase humanitarian needs and drive new displacement. • More than 1.8 million remain displaced across the country. In the Northwest, the number of internally displaced people (IDPs) has exceeded 1 million. • New displacement was triggered after an airstrike in Sagaing on 11 April in which more than 170 people, including children, were killed. • Humanitarian operations continue to be hampered by physical and administrative obstacles. • Camp closure and encouragement to return have continued despite protection concerns from displaced people. In Rakhine, the de facto authorities started relocating families from Kyauk Ta Lone camp to the new relocation site and aim to close the camp by mid-May. • Acute Watery Diarrhoea (AWD) outbreaks were reported in IDP camps in Demoso and Hpruso townships in Kayah and in southern Shan in March. The risk for AWD outbreaks remains high ahead of the monsoon season. • Therapeutic nutrition and micronutrient supplies are at risk of running out in September due to a combination of import taxation issues and underfunding. • Four months into 2023, the US$764m Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is less than ten per cent funded. Some clusters have received no funding so far this year and are operating only using carryover funding from the end of 2022 which will soon run out. Generous funding is imperative to meet the needs across Myanmar. KEY FIGURES 1.8M Total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 1.5M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 328K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 60K Civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021. SITUATION OVERVIEW The security and humanitarian situations in Myanmar have continued to worsen amid ongoing fighting across multiple states, particularly in Kachin, the Northwest and Southeast. There are now more than 1.8 million displaced people across the country, as of 1 May, according to UN figures. IDPs are in urgent need of critical and lifesaving assistance. Humanitarian partners on the ground are responding to their needs, using various modalities in the face of mounting restrictions and risks. Moves continue by the de facto authorities to close IDP camps and encourage returns continue in various parts of the country, including Kachin, Shan, Chin and Rakhine. Many IDPs report that they do not feel safe returning to their places of origin due to ongoing fighting, explosive ordnance risks, interruptions to services and lack of livelihoods. The movement of IDPs out of the Kyauk Ta Lone (KTL) Camp in Kyaukpyu township in Rakhine has begun with plans to have the camp closed by mid-May. In northern Shan, the closure of 15 IDP camps in Kutkai, Namhkan and Namtu townships is underway, and in southern Shan, displaced families from Kayah who were displaced in Nyaungshwe township had to move to other sites in April. Humanitarian partners continue to provide critical and lifesaving assistance to affected and displaced people across the country, prioritizing 4.5 million out of the 17.6 million people in need in 2023. Simultaneously, the UN and its humanitarian partners continue to advocate for the end of violence, unimpeded and predictable access to people in need, and safe and voluntary return of IDPs. Generous funding of the humanitarian response, as outlined in the US$764m Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan is urgently required..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-05-06
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-06
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.05 MB
more
Description: "In late-February / early-March the MAU conducted a third-round survey of displaced households in Sagaing Region to understand challenges they face. The study is based on a probability sample representing 2700 households currently or previously enrolled in cash assistance programs. MAU reports are available online at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit. KEY FINDINGS Ninety-five percent of households were still displaced in early-March—up from 85% in December—and most still lived in temporary makeshift shelters; Nearly half of households surveyed were redisplaced again since December; More households described security as "poor" in March, rising from 38% in December to 53% in March; Fewer households struggled to access shelter goods in March, but access to other goods was unchanged; The portion of households without work doubled since December, with 54% saying access to work was "poor" and 39% saying no one in their home had work; Fewer households bought food with cash transfers or work income, while the use of credit remained high; Some food insecurity indicators improved slightly, but nutrition in households with small children and pregnant / breastfeeding women remained poor for many. The number of internally displaced persons in Sagaing Region continued to grow in early-2023. According to data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Project (ACLED), the monthly count of conflict-related events in Sagaing Region jumped between December 2022 and March 2023, following several months of lower counts (see Figure 1). The United Nations estimated that the total number of IDPs in Sagaing Region grew by 15% during this period, increasing from 616,500 at the start of December to 707,200 at the start of March, with a particularly sharp increase in January.1 As of early-March, basic safety and access to shelter remained major concerns for many IDPs, many of whom also continued to struggle with limited freedom of movement and poor access to work. As armed conflict continues to disrupt critical market systems, more data is needed on the ability of IDPs to meet these and other basic needs. In early-March the MAU surveyed current and former IDP households from eight Sagaing Region townships about their living conditions and market access. The survey of roughly 400 households represents a population of more than 2700 currently- or previously-displaced households enrolled in one or more cash assistance programs. The study focussed on displacement status, household living conditions, financial resources, access to markets and goods and food security. The study is not intended to represent all IDPs in Sagaing Region, nor is it intended as an evaluation of the effectiveness of cash programs. This report is based on a third-round survey of the same population contacted in September and December 2022..."
Source/publisher: Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-04-31
Date of entry/update: 2023-05-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 3.18 MB
more
Description: "Changes in Context Throughout 2022, the people of Myanmar faced an unprecedented political, human rights, and humanitarian crisis that posed grave protection risks for civilians, limiting access to vital services including health and education, and causing worsening food insecurity. Humanitarian needs deepened across the country as conflict raged unabated, causing record levels of displacement, destruction of property, and explosive ordnance contamination, especially in the country’s Northwest and Southeast. Forced recruitment of civilians, including of children, by armed groups jumped dramatically in 2022, while the use of heavy weapons such as airstrikes and artillery fire resulted in civilian casualties, damage to properties and constant threats to civilian safety. Access for humanitarian responders was heavily constrained, with bureaucratic blockages around registration, travel, banking, and visas, undermining the quality and reach of operations. Throughout the year, surging inflation forced up the prices of essential commodities, food items, and fuel, adding to financial stress for vulnerable households, worsening poverty and increasing the cost of humanitarian operations. Despite these barriers, humanitarians stayed and delivered, reaching a record 4.4 million people in need. Expansion of conflict Clashes and attacks escalated across multiple states and regions in Myanmar throughout 2022, affecting the lives of civilians on a much wider scale, further compounding their already stressed living conditions. Fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and various Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) escalated, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast, in 2022. The humanitarian and security situations in the Southeast deteriorated, with armed clashes and heavy use of air strikes and shelling occurring in all states and regions. Fighting in Kayin escalated in Lay Kay Kaw Town in Myawaddy Township in December 2021 resulting in the displacement of thousands of civilians both within the state and across Myanmar’s borders. Intense armed clashes occurred in many townships in eastern Bago, Kayah, Mon, southern Shan, and Tanintharyi. The presence of military troops in residential areas, reports of indiscriminate shooting, destruction of civilian properties, including houses, schools, churches and monasteries, and reports of landmine incidents in multiple locations across the country’s southeast all remained major protection concerns at year’s end. The security situation in Chin, Magway and Sagaing in the Northwest continued to deteriorate throughout the year, with a dramatic increase in the number of displaced people and growing civilian protection threats amid armed clashes between the MAF and various PDFs. Large-scale burning and destruction of civilian properties was reported across the Northwest. As of 26 December 2022, more than 795,000 people remained displaced across the Northwest due to conflict and insecurity since the 2021 military takeover (68 per cent of all new IDPs nationwide). Disruption of electricity and internet services in various parts of Myanmar, particularly in conflictaffected areas in the Northwest and Southeast, significantly hindered information-sharing and other communications among residents, undermining remote humanitarian assessments and engagement with affected people. Despite the growing humanitarian needs reported during the year, heavy restrictions were imposed on the transportation of rice, medicine, and fuel in conflict areas. The situation in Rakhine and southern Chin, which had remained relatively calm since November 2020 following the lull in fighting between the Arakan Army (AA) and the MAF, again turned towards active conflict in August 2022. The use of heavy weapons, airstrikes, landmines, and mortar shelling occurred in multiple townships, mainly in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, and Rathedaung in northern Rakhine and Kyauktaw, Minbya, and Mrauk-U in central Rakhine. In a new dynamic, conflict between the AA and the MAF also spread into southern Rakhine in 2022. Security measures across many townships limited people’s movement, partially obstructing the delivery of humanitarian assistance. On 15 September 2022, the de facto authorities prohibited international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and the United Nations from accessing six key townships – Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Myebon, and Rathedaung. An additional two townships were also added in early November (Pauktaw and Sittwe). An informal ceasefire was reached between the AA and the MAF later in November which allowed for the relaxation of some movement restrictions and at year’s end humanitarian partners were working to use the window of opportunity to deliver and pre-position much-needed supplies in communities that had been cut off during the preceding months of fighting. This new outbreak of conflict placed Myanmar at ACAPS' highest ranking for the risk of ‘‘rapid and marked deterioration” within an existing crisis.4 It affected both Rohingya and Rakhine communities who have been caught between the two forces. Overall, close to 23,350 people remained displaced in Rakhine and Paletwa Township of Chin as a result of the resumed conflict between the AA and the MAF, bringing the total number of IDPs from past and present AA-MAF conflict to close to 97,000, as of 5 December 2022, according to UN figures. IDPs from this conflict are now being encouraged to return home by the de facto authorities but there are concerns that this is premature given that many people’s land or houses have been occupied, and because people’s places of origin are now contaminated by explosive ordnance. Efforts are being made to ensure that all returns are voluntary, safe and dignified. The situation in northern Shan remained unstable in 2022 with continued clashes between the MAF and EAOs and among EAOs. Moreover, PDFs have become more involved in the conflict in northern Shan. The armed clashes led to multiple cases of new displacement. According to UN figures, as of 26 December 2022, approximately 8,300 people remained in temporary displacement sites and protracted camps in northern Shan, while 61,900 people (including IDPs displaced from Kayah) remained displaced in southern Shan. In Kachin, armed conflict that resumed between the MAF and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) following the 2021 military takeover continued in many townships throughout 2022. The intensification of armed clashes varied from roadside attacks to aerial bombardment and deployment of heavy weapons. The involvement of PDFs in the fighting became more frequent in 2022, as many formed alliances with the KIA against the MAF. Airstrikes with dozens of civilian casualties were also reported across Kachin. As of 26 December 2022, an estimated 13,600 people were internally displaced in Kachin because of fighting and insecurity since the February 2021 military takeover, according to the UN’s figures. This is in addition to the 91,500 people who were already displaced prior to 2021..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-04-11
Date of entry/update: 2023-04-11
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 6.17 MB
more
Sub-title: ကြားကာလအခြေခံပညာပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်းများအဖြစ် အသိအမှတ်ပြုကြောင်း ကြေညာချက်
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-04-10
Date of entry/update: 2023-04-10
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 174.46 KB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 27 March, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of April 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES Heavy fighting continues in many parts of the country, generating new humanitarian needs and further restricting the movement of goods and people. Conflict and other threats to the safety of civilians have intensified, particularly in the country’s Northwest which is now hosting the almost a million displaced people. As of 27 March, almost 1.8 million people remain displaced across the country. This includes more than 1.4 people who have been internally displaced by conflict and insecurity since February 2021. Concerns persist over moves to close displacement camps in many parts of the country while many IDPs remain worried about safety and livelihoods opportunities in their places of origin. Humanitarian operations continue to be hampered by a range of physical and administrative obstacles. The ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) in Rakhine is still holding although it remains fragile. In 2023, 17.6 million people - nearly one third of the population - are estimated to be in humanitarian need. In 2023, the humanitarian community has prioritized support for 4.5 million people with severe needs, predominantly in conflict affected rural areas. A quarter of the way into the year, the US$764m Humanitarian Response Plan is only 8 per cent funded. KEY FIGURES 1.8M Total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 1.4M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 328K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 60K Civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021. SITUATION OVERVIEW Overview Section An alarming humanitarian situation continues to unfold in Myanmar, with ongoing armed clashes in multiple states and regions, particularly in the Northwest and the Southeast, driving rising humanitarian needs. The overall number of IDPs continues to rise. According to the latest UN figures as of 27 March, the total number of IDPs in Myanmar stands at almost 1.8 million. This includes more than 1.4 million people who remain displaced by conflict and insecurity since the military takeover, and more than 328,000 people who were already displaced from previous conflicts. Of the total IDPs since the military takeover, the Northwest is hosting the highest number - now 971,700 IDPs - followed by the Southeast - 429,800 IDPs. IDPs are living in precarious conditions in camps and informal sites, often in jungles and forests. Moves continue by the de facto authorities to close displacement camps in various parts of the country, including Kachin, Shan, Chin and Rakhine. Humanitarians remain concerned that some IDPs might have to move prematurely, while clashes are ongoing or while conditions are not safe or suitable because of explosive ordnance contamination, destruction of housing, poor access to services and lack of livelihoods. Humanitarian partners estimate that 17.6 million people are in need in 2023. The 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan targets 4.5 million of those in most severe need, predominantly in conflict-affected rural areas. A quarter of the way into 2023, just 8 per cent of the required funds have been received according to FTS. A dramatic increase in funding and an expansion of access will be critical for the humanitarian community to reach those prioritized for lifesaving assistance this year. In 2022, humanitarian organizations were able to reach at least 4.4 million people with assistance, but this support was not as deep or sustained as planned due to access constraints and severe underfunding..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-04-06
Date of entry/update: 2023-04-06
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1 MB
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS According to the UN, an estimated 1,704,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) were reported across the country as of 6 March 2023, including 1,376,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021. Risk of arrest and detention significantly increased during the reporting period after de facto authorities extended the country’s state of emergency for another six-months and imposed martial law in 47 Townships across the country on 2 February. In the North-West, the situation was highly volatile, notably in Magway and Sagaing Regions, where frequent airstrikes, arson attacks and landmine incidents sparked new displacements within Myanmar and to neighboring India. Telecommunications, including internet services, remained unstable and hampered humanitarian access and assistance to people in need. In the South-East, heavy fighting, shelling, landmine incidents and roadblocks were reported in multiple states and regions, including near town centers and IDP sites. The forced return of displaced people in Palaw Township, Tanintharyi Region, was reported following the declaration of martial law. School-aged children’s access to education has also been affected by this heightened insecurity. In Kachin and Shan (North), civilian injuries and casualties continue to be reported following an increase in landmines and other explosive remnants. An uptick in robberies and kidnapping for ransom incidents has also been reported. In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, the informal November 2022 ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and Tatmadaw is holding. Humanitarian access has improved although remains limited in its geographic scope. Landmines and explosive remnants continue to pose serious protection risks coupled with reports of forced recruitment amid competing power dynamics in areas controlled by parties to the conflict. There was an increase in irregular movement and trafficking as people – notably Rohingya – undertook dangerous sea and land journeys in search of protection, family reunification and livelihoods opportunities in other countries. In parallel, IDPs continued to raise concerns about the impending IDP camp closures and safety risks in areas of relocation or return..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-03-15
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 8.78 MB
more
Description: "KEY DISPLACEMENT FIGURES 75,400 Estimated refugee movements to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 1,086,000 Refugees and asylum-seekers from Myanmar in neighbouring countries as of 30 June 2022 1,376,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021 Source: UN in Myanmar 1,704,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 6 March 2023 Source: UN in Myanmar HIGHLIGHTS According to the UN, an estimated 1,704,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) were reported across the country as of 6 March 2023, including 1,376,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021. Risk of arrest and detention significantly increased during the reporting period after de facto authorities extended the country’s state of emergency for another six-months and imposed martial law in 47 Townships across the country on 2 February. In the North-West, the situation was highly volatile, notably in Magway and Sagaing Regions, where frequent airstrikes, arson attacks and landmine incidents sparked new displacements within Myanmar and to neighboring India. Telecommunications, including internet services, remained unstable and hampered humanitarian access and assistance to people in need. In the South-East, heavy fighting, shelling, landmine incidents and roadblocks were reported in multiple states and regions, including near town centers and IDP sites. The forced return of displaced people in Palaw Township, Tanintharyi Region, was reported following the declaration of martial law. School-aged children’s access to education has also been affected by this heightened insecurity. In Kachin and Shan (North), civilian injuries and casualties continue to be reported following an increase in landmines and other explosive remnants. An uptick in robberies and kidnapping for ransom incidents has also been reported. In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, the informal November 2022 ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and Tatmadaw is holding. Humanitarian access has improved although remains limited in its geographic scope. Landmines and explosive remnants continue to pose serious protection risks coupled with reports of forced recruitment amid competing power dynamics in areas controlled by parties to the conflict. There was an increase in irregular movement and trafficking as people – notably Rohingya – undertook dangerous sea and land journeys in search of protection, family reunification and livelihoods opportunities in other countries. In parallel, IDPs continued to raise concerns about the impending IDP camp closures and safety risks in areas of relocation or return..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-03-10
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-13
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 8.78 MB
more
Description: "Situation in Numbers 5,600,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance 17,600,000 people in need (HRP 2023) 1,329,700 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 (UNHCR) 52,000 People displaced to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 (UNHCR) 330,400 people living in protracted displacement before February 2021 (OCHA) Highlights By the end of February 2023, Myanmar reported more than 1.6 million people displaced across the country including over 1.3 million people who have been displaced since February 2021. Recent new displacement is particularly concentrated in northwest and southeast regions due to ongoing hostilities. UNICEF joined the interagency missions in northern Rakhine, and distributed hygiene kits to 1,034 families and other hygiene, education and recreational materials to 6,389 displaced people in southern Shan state. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) reached 288,684 individuals. UNICEF requires US$169.6 million to respond to the multisectoral humanitarian needs of children in Myanmar. Funding Overview and Partnerships UNICEF Myanmar Country Office is appealing for US$169.6 million in 2023 to address the needs of the 2.8 million people targeted, including an estimated 1.9 million children. During the reporting period, UNICEF secured US$9.4 million, comprising US$ 1.8 million received in 2023 and US$7.6 million carried forward from the previous year. UNICEF has been given generous support by the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Humanitarian Aid department of the European Commission (ECHO), the Government of Japan, the Government of Norway, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the World Health Organization (WHO) and through global humanitarian thematic funding. UNICEF and its partners continue to deliver much-needed services covering nutrition, health, HIV/AIDS, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education, child protection, gender-based violence in emergencies, protection against sexual exploitation and abuse, social protection and cash-based programming, accountability to affected populations (AAP), humanitarian leadership and cluster coordination. The programmes hope to scale up services to the targeted populations, especially to children in need, with continued support from donors. UNICEF expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions to supporting the children of Myanmar. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs The general situation remains volatile with continuous widespread and intensified armed conflicts across Myanmar, particularly in the southeast and northwest where there is regular heavy fighting, air strikes, artillery shelling and the destruction of civilian properties. As of 27 February, more than 1.3 million people had been displaced across Myanmar since February 2021 according to United Nations figures.1 During the reporting period, 154,400 people werenewly displaced, primarily in the regions of Sagaing, Magway, Thanintharyi, and Bago East, as well as Mon and Kayin states due to intensified fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF), Ethnic Armed Organizations and the People’s Defence Forces. On 2 February 2023, the State Administration Council (SAC) declared martial law in 37 additional townships across Myanmar and, on 22 February, in 3 more townships in Sagaing region. These include 26 townships in the northwest (14 in Sagaing, 7 in Chin, 5 in Magway) and 14 in the southeast (5 in Bago, 4 in Kayah, 2 in Kayin, 2 in Thanintharyi and 1 in Mon). This brings the total number of townships under martial law to 47. This imposition of martial law affecting the service delivery in those areas by adding additional bureaucratic layers, security checkpoints and curfew. Humanitarian access remains severely constrained in most states and regions, mostly due to bureaucratic impediments, movement restrictions, insecurity, and landmines. There are severe restrictions on sending humanitarian supplies to most townships in the northwest and southeast. However, in Rakhine State restrictions on travel have been lifted including to six officially off-limit townships, though the domestic transport of supplies remains limited. Nationally, the lead time necessary for transport is prolonged due to the approval requirements, the complex security situation and the presence of multiple checkpoints. Some transport routes are affected by the presence of different parties to the conflict. Beyond domestic access constraints, restrictions and delays have hampered the import of humanitarian supplies for more than a year. Additionally, some supplies which used to be tax exempt, such as micronutrient tablets, ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF) and other medical supplies, are now taxed. In the northwest and southeast, humanitarian partners are often unable to reach people in need, particularly in Sagaing, Magway and Kayin because of stringent restrictions on movement and supplies, the use of landmines and explosive ordinance and threats to humanitarian workers. The situation of people, including children, remains unknown in some areas. Internally displaced people in Kayah State (particularly those from eastern Demoso) are suffering from acute water shortages. Kachin state, which has been affected by conflict for several decades, and the impact of the recurrent and heavy conflicts is still severe. Despite no major displacement was reported during the first two months of 2023, local General Administration Department (GAD) met with camp leaders in Kachin to encourage the displaced people in protracted camps to return to their place of origins by the end of March without a viable plan for rehabilitation. Three options were discussed: (i) return to place of origin; (ii) move to a resettlement site (iii) the displaced people to make their own plans to move out of the camps. This forced return was reported in Shan and Rakhine States as well and this has led to increased anxiety among camp communities as most of their home villages may be contaminated by landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) or occupied by active military forces. Although travel restrictions have been eased in Rakhine State, the local General Administration Department (GAD)still does not permit access to all areas, particularly to villages in remote rural areas, and camps in towns have increased the vulnerability of the displaced populations. Most service providers were unable to assist populations in dire humanitarian need. In early January, UNICEF joined an inter-agency Mission in 4 townships of southern Shan State, distributing 2,834 hygiene kits, 68 school bags, 806 soap bars, 516 water buckets, 2 school kits and recreation kits to 6,389 displaced people in 46 camps. In the middle of January UNICEF distributed 1,034 hygiene kits to 1,034 families at 8 sites for displaced people in Buthidaung and Rathedaung, Rakhine State as part of a joint Mission led by the United Nations..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-03-13
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-13
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 536.1 KB
more
Sub-title: Community-based schools and ones operating under the shadow government are filling the gaps.
Description: "UPDATED at 11:25 A.M. EST on 03-08-2023 Battered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the military coup and an ensuing civil war, Myanmar’s school system is in shambles. The number of high school students registering for a key exam has plunged 80%, parents, teachers and educational experts say. To protest against the February 2021 coup, some 300,000 teachers and other school staffers walked off their jobs at government-run schools as part of the Civil Disobedience Movement, leaving schools severely understaffed. In response, the junta has suspended more than 11,000 academic staffers and about 125,000 teachers and professors, according to U.S. government data. Subsequent fighting between the army and rebel groups has displaced thousands, making schooling extremely difficult. Many other families have stopped sending their children to school because they don’t trust the junta, or have sent them to schools run by the shadow National Unity Government. “People no longer trust their education system,” said a teacher who, like others in this report, refused to be named for security reasons. “And now with the online federal schools and other non-military-operated schools, children can consider what is better for them and which education system can give them more knowledge and skills.” “That’s why we see that there are fewer and fewer students who are taking the tenth-grade exam in the junta’s schools,” he said. During the 2019-20 academic year, when the civilian-led National League for Democracy was still in power, nearly 970,800 students registered for the 10th-grade matriculation exam, a benchmark for the country’s educated workforce for decades. The following year, that number slipped to 312,300, and during the current 2022-23 year, fewer than 179,800 registered for the exam, according to the junta's education data. Reforms on hold The coup also put on hold educational reforms that were being carried out by the former NLD government, including increasing budgets for schooling and implementing a strategic plan to transform the country’s education system and improve learning at all levels. In June 2022, when the Ministry of Education ordered the reopening of primary, middle and high schools across the country for in-person classes for the 2022-2023 academic year, over 7 million of the country’s roughly 12 million students returned to the classroom, according to junta Education Minister Nyunt Pe. Some of the remaining 5 million students across the country do not attend the schools run by the junta, while some primary, middle and high school teachers say they have not returned to their schools because they do not want to work under the military administration. Ongoing fighting between the military and ethnic armed groups in conjunction with anti-coup People’s Defense Forces in some of Myanmar’s states and regions have prevented students from attending school. In response, the shadow National Unity Government, or NUG, had set up its own schools throughout the country. “As many areas of several states and regions are war zones, exams cannot be held and there are no students to take them,” said Kyaw Ye Lwin, a committee member of NUG’s Federal Democratic Education Cooperation Network. “Another thing is that NUG has strengthened its educational system on the ground,” he said, with students who attend federal schools trying to take the basic education completion assessment test administered by the NUG’s Ministry of Education. “Due to these factors, the number of students in schools under the junta administration has decreased.” Separate exam NUG Education Minister Zaw Wai Soe said that the shadow government is implementing an interim education system throughout the country, and about 90,000 students are taking its own 10th-grade exam. “We hold practical exams for students in the areas where NUG is in control,” he told RFA. “We hold digital and internet-based exams in the areas where we are not in control yet. We are trying to implement online, practical and digital classes and exams for students in the areas away from our control, too.” Residents in Sagaing and Magway regions, where fighting has intensified, have set up their own community-based schools so that local teachers can prepare students for the matriculation exam. “Since the education system here in our area is in accordance with the federal education system, schools here can offer their own lessons,” said a teacher at a community-based school in Magway. “It’s rather independent,” she said. “There are several different exam designs, too. There are many NUG-recognized schools in Magway, [but] there are hardly any students studying for the exams in the junta schools.” A parent of a student from Magway’s Yesagyo township told RFA that he enrolled his children in community-based schools because teachers there provide extra help to students. “The difference between the junta’s schools and our community-based schools is that our community-based schools focus on the people and teach students very well,” he said. “If students need more help, teachers give them more revision time and teach them at their homes, too.” ‘Conflict zone’ Residents of a village in Sagaing region, a hotbed of resistance in northwestern Myanmar, set up a primary school there for children who could not attend state-run schools due to the hostilities, said the school’s founder. She and four permanent teachers as well as other educators from the Civil Disobedience Movement teach about 150 students at the primary school which opened in June 2022 under the auspices of the NUG, she said. “Since we are in a conflict zone and a war refugee zone, there are no other schools here,” she told RFA. “We can now teach music, art and the curriculum to our children,” she said. “Many stationery and teaching accessories are donated to us by well-wishers from faraway places.” So far, parents of schoolchildren do not seem daunted by an announcement by the junta via state-run media networks on March 1 that authorities will take action against them under the Counterterrorism Law if they enroll students in online schools managed by the NUG. The junta also said that parents must enroll their children only in the junta schools and private schools recognized by the military. But the teacher at the primary school in a village in Sagaing said children know they have a right to education no matter where they live, regardless of such threats. “Issuing politicizing orders to stop such rights of the schools and children from benefiting is a very vulgar act,” she said. Meanwhile, junta-run schools are coping with manpower shortages by piling up work on educators. “We have to teach eight classes a day,” one high school educator said. “In the past, we could rest for two or three class periods as break time during which we could prepare the lesson plans for the next classes. We used to have extra time to study and preview the lessons before we went into each class. But now, we have very little extra time.” And new teachers entering the profession are not receiving adequate training, she said. “With only two days of skill training, teachers cannot be qualified to teach,” the educator said. ‘They do not know their subjects very well. Now we have to coordinate with each other and learn to teach these classes.”..."
Source/publisher: "RFA" (USA)
2023-03-07
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-07
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "Council Concludes its Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan The Human Rights Council this afternoon concluded an interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, held an interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, and began an interactive dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua. Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said as Myanmar entered the third year of the crisis generated by military rule, its people continued to suffer profound human rights harms; an expanding humanitarian emergency; continuing impunity of the military authorities; and a deepening economic crisis. Armed conflict continued to grow and military operations now increasingly involved the use of airstrikes, artillery shelling and heavy weaponry against civilians. The latest report detailed a number of incidents being investigated, including hundreds of houses being burned and dozens of people, including children killed by shelling and military raids. Since February 2021, at least 17,572 people had been arrested (including 381 children) with 13,763 remaining in detention. Across the country, 17.6 million people now needed humanitarian assistance, and over 15.2 million faced acute food insecurity. The Rohingya community still remaining in Myanmar continued to face widespread discrimination. There needed to be increased international support, and the continuing proceedings before both the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court warranted every support. In the discussion on Myanmar, speakers said, among other things, that since the 1 February 2021 coup, the military had brought the country into a perpetual human rights crisis through continuous human rights violations and violations of international humanitarian law, some of which may amount to international crimes. The consistent tactics and patterns of abuse underscored the military’s responsibility for these violations, including indiscriminate airstrikes and artillery attacks against populated areas, village raids and burnings, arbitrary arrests, use of torture, extrajudicial killings, killings of children, attacks on schools and hospitals, military use of schools, sexual and gender-based violence, severe restrictions of fundamental freedoms and many more, with persons belonging to ethnic or religious minorities such as the Rohingya bearing the brunt. One speaker spoke of regret that Myanmar had not participated in the discussion, stressing respect for its sovereignty. Some speakers said all parties should speak and work in order to help the parties in Myanmar overcome their divergences and problems in order to overcome their differences, and the international community should respect the territorial integrity and national unity of Myanmar in resolving the situation. Dialogue and reconciliation must be the way forward. To not listen to the State concerned precluded hearing about its efforts and the progress made on the ground. Another speaker called for an end to all unilateral coercive measures imposed on Myanmar, which caused immense suffering to the people on the ground. Speaking in the discussion on Myanmar were European Union, Norway on behalf of a group of countries, France, United States, Japan, Luxembourg, Costa Rica, China, United Nations Children’s Fund, Indonesia, Venezuela, Egypt, Canada, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Malaysia, South Africa, Maldives, Türkiye, Bangladesh, Gambia, Saudi Arabia, Malawi, Australia, Mauritania, Libya, Thailand, Belarus, Botswana, Ireland, Viet Nam, Iran, Russian Federation, Sierra Leone and Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries. Also speaking were the following non-governmental organizations: Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation, Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration, Centre pour les Droits Civils et Politiques - Centre CCPR, Society for Threatened Peoples, Edmund Rice International Limited, Lawyers Rights Watch Canada, Amnesty International, International Commission of Jurists, and CIVICUS - World Alliance for Citizen Participation. The Council then started an interactive dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua. Jan-Michael Simon, Chair of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua, said the Group had investigated alleged human rights abuses and violations committed in Nicaragua since April 2018. Based on the information analysed, the Group concluded that serious and systematic human rights violations and abuses of human rights took place in Nicaragua during the period covered by the report, perpetuated by government representatives, and those from pro-government groups. Violations included extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detentions, torture and cruel treatment including acts of sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary deprivation of nationality, and violations of the right to remain in the country, among others. These violations were perpetrated against genuine and perceived opponents of the Nicaraguan Government. The Expert Group concluded that the violations were committed as a pattern of behaviour which was generalised and systematic. These violations constituted crimes against humanity. These crimes against humanity were committed within the framework of a discriminatory policy against part of the population of Nicaragua, for political motives, intentionally organised from the highest levels of government. Nicaragua, speaking as the country concerned, said the Government of reconciliation and national unity wished to formally indicate that it had not nor would it ever accept the unilateral appointment of the Members of the Group of Experts in any way, shape or form. This group was nothing less than a smokescreen in order to allow fabrication of facts. The input to it came from certain opposition elements in the country that were putting forth false narratives directed by imperialist powers with the aim of interfering in the nation. No reports were accepted, as they ran counter to the over-arching interests of the State, which was aiming to ensure human rights across the board. Nicaragua did not wish these reports to continue to undermine its institutions and legal order. The reports did not reflect the most basic progress, such as in education, women’s rights, and poverty reduction. Any recommendations put forward lacked objectivity and were tantamount to coercion, since they undermined the efforts of all Nicaraguans. In the ensuing discussion on Nicaragua, speakers expressed, among other things, outrage for the serious and systematic human rights violations laid out in the reports, including crimes against humanity. The report left no doubt regarding the grave seriousness of the human rights situation in Nicaragua, which continued to deteriorate, and could lead to an even graver humanitarian crisis. The Government should work to ensure the human rights of all Nicaraguans, and ensure accountability and justice for all for the human rights violations listed in the report, including allegations of torture and grave violations of civil and political rights. Multiple speakers welcomed the release of 222 political prisoners by the Government of Nicaragua, but remained gravely concerned about the deterioration of human rights and the rule of law. Speaking in the discussion on Nicaragua were Chile on behalf of a group of countries, European Union, Luxembourg on behalf of a group of countries, Iceland on behalf of a group of countries, France, United States, Switzerland and Ecuador. At the beginning of the meeting, the Council concluded its interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan. Richard Bennett, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, in concluding remarks, said many interventions had rightly focused on discrimination against women and girls. Even if the situation affecting women and girls was less serious, there would still be a human rights crisis in Afghanistan. There was an increasing number of reports of arbitrary arrests, torture, disappearance and killings, including those of a district governor and former police commander in the past few days, who appeared to have suffered torture before being killed. The Council was implored to consider this on its agenda. Mr. Bennett called on the de-facto authorities to take concrete steps to stop these killings and bring those responsible to justice. Rapidly shrinking civil space was also a concern, described as a “muzzling” of the media in the report. In the discussion on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, speakers raised, among other issues, the deep concern over the regressive, disproportionate and discriminatory measures imposed by the de facto authorities on Afghan women and girls, particularly the banning of tertiary education for Afghan women. Speakers urged the de facto authorities to urgently reconsider this decision, which was detrimental to the future generation of Afghanistan. There was also concern about the economic and humanitarian crises that continued to deteriorate in the country. The situation in Afghanistan was due to United States’ activities in the country, one speaker said, urging the Special Rapporteur to find a way around the effective blocking of Afghan assets by the United States, which undermined Afghanistan’s capacity to move towards sustainable peace and development. Some speakers were disappointed that the Special Rapporteur had not taken note of this in his report, urging him to take into consideration the historical reasons for the crisis, and to call for an end to the blocking of assets. Speaking in the discussion were Malaysia, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Australia, Türkiye, New Zealand, Kazakhstan, Italy, Republic of Malta, Chile, Malawi, Montenegro, Austria, Croatia, Namibia, Bulgaria, Pakistan, Argentina, Timor-Leste, Iran, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Greece, Russian Federation, Slovenia, and United Kingdom. Also speaking were the following non-governmental organizations: Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, Interfaith International Intervention, Save the Children International, International Lesbian and Gay Association, World Organisation against Torture, CIVICUS – World Alliance for Citizen Participation Intervention, International Bar Association, Organisation internationale pour les pays les moins avancés, and Meezaan Centre for Human Rights. The webcast of the Human Rights Council meetings can be found here. All meeting summaries can be found here. Documents and reports related to the Human Rights Council’s fifty-second regular session can be found here. The next meeting of the Council will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 7 March, when it will conclude the interactive dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua followed by an enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan. The Council will then hear the High Commissioner’s oral update and presentation of reports under item 2, followed by a general debate under item 2 - annual report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and reports of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General. Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan The interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan started in the previous meeting and a summary can be found here. Discussion on Afghanistan Some speakers expressed deep concern over the regressive, disproportionate and discriminatory measures imposed by the de facto authorities on Afghan women and girls. Such measures, particularly the banning of tertiary education for Afghan women and girls, contradicted Islamic principles and international human rights law. Speakers urged the de facto authorities to urgently reconsider this decision, which was detrimental to the future generation of Afghanistan. The recent decisions to ban women and girls from higher education, along with the decree barring women from working in national and international non-governmental organizations were yet another stark demonstration of the silencing of the voices of women and girls in the country. Such actions were self-defeating, and would only aggravate the dire socio-economic conditions, as well as maybe being tantamount to gender persecution. Education was the key to economic well-being and future prosperity in any society, and as such, education in Afghanistan, especially for girls and women, must continue and even increase. The data was clear that educated girls and women contributed very significantly to social and economic well-being. In order to bring together the three pillars of the United Nations: human rights, peace and security, and development, as well as to promote inclusive and comprehensive sustainable development in the region, one speaker proposed to establish a United Nations Regional Hub on Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty, Kazakhstan, which would coordinate all international programmes aimed at supporting Afghanistan. Speakers appealed repeatedly to Afghanistan to restore access to education for all women and girls within the country, allowing them to achieve development and prosperity. There was also concern about the economic and humanitarian crises that continued to deteriorate in Afghanistan. The international community should increase its efforts to address these issues through constructive dialogue and cooperation, and help Afghanistan from descending further into insecurity, poverty and isolation. The international community needed to also continue to give coordinated and constructive suggestions to Afghanistan on improving the situation. Afghanistan remained in a dire economic crisis: ensuring stability in the country was critical. Almost the entire population was impacted by the dire situation, with currently 97 per cent of them suffering in various ways. Fighting impunity and ensuring accountability for the violations of international humanitarian law and human rights violations and abuses was an essential for the stability and peaceful future of all Afghan citizens, speakers said. Today Afghanistan was a dreary place where the Constitution was suspended, the rule of law was subject to interpretation, and the Taliban was ruling through fear and repression. The overwhelming sense of hopelessness, compounded by the economic and humanitarian crises, were deeply affecting the whole of Afghan society. It was therefore crucial to keep providing humanitarian and basic needs assistance. Efforts should be made by the international community to ensure that Afghanistan adopted a Government that was representative of all parts of Afghan society, including the various ethnic and religious groups, as well as women and girls. The situation in Afghanistan was due to United States’ activities in the country, one speaker said, urging the Special Rapporteur to find a way around the effective blocking of Afghan assets by the United States, which undermined Afghanistan’s capacity to move towards sustainable peace and development. Some speakers were disappointed that the Special Rapporteur had not taken note of this in his report, urging him to take into consideration the historical reasons for the crisis, and to call for an end to the blocking of assets. Another issue of deep concern was the situation of millions of children in Afghanistan deprived of essential services, including primary healthcare, education, water and sanitation, while many of them continued to be killed and maimed by landmines and other explosive remnants of war, as well as their recruitment for conflict. The Special Rapporteur was asked, considering the inclusion in his mandate of a child’s rights perspective, what was his assessment on the situation of children and on future prospects? Another question asked was what prospects for positive developments by the authorities he saw in light of the recent setbacks? Concluding Remarks RICHARD BENNETT, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, thanked all the States and members of civil society for their interventions and questions. Many interventions had rightly focused on discrimination against women and girls. Mr. Bennett welcomed the decision by the Council at the previous session to mandate a specific report on the situation of women and girls at the fifty-third session. Even if the situation affecting women and girls was less serious, there would still be a human rights crisis in Afghanistan. Mr. Bennett was concerned about the extra judicial killings of former civil servants and members of the Afghan security forces, despite the general amnesty issued by the de-facto authorities. There was an increasing number of reports of arbitrary arrests, torture, disappearance, and killings, including those of a district governor and a former police commander in the past few days, who appeared to have suffered torture before being killed. The Council was implored to consider this on their agenda. Impunity could lead to ongoing animosity and future bloodshed. Mr. Bennett called on the de-facto authorities to take concrete steps to stop these killings and bring those responsible to justice. Rapidly shrinking civil space was also a concern, described as a “muzzling” of the media in the report. There was no independent mechanism to address human rights complaints and bring them to the attention of the authorities. Journalists, human rights defenders and civil society should be able to operate freely without fear, but this was not the case. The banning of education was not supported or justified; this was a universal right. Girls must be allowed to resume their studies alongside boys, and women alongside men at university. The impact of war, compounded by the Taliban’s rule would be intergenerational. If Afghanistan was to have a new generation of leaders tomorrow, they needed basic services today. Mr. Bennett appreciated the strengthening of his mandate to include the documentation of evidence. There needed to be a stocktake of what mechanisms already existed for accountability, and there needed to be more resources put towards this. It was important to note that accountability should include the right to truth and reparations, as well as criminal accountability. Afghanistan deserved more commitment and engagement from the international community. Mr. Bennett expressed his unwavering admiration and commitment to the Afghan people who strove for human rights. Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar Report The Council has before it the report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the implementation of the recommendations made by the independent international fact-finding mission on Myanmar (A/HRC/52/21). Presentation of Report VOLKER TÜRK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said as Myanmar entered the third year of the crisis generated by military rule, its people continued to suffer profound human rights harms; an expanding humanitarian emergency; continuing impunity of the military authorities; and a deepening economic crisis. Armed conflict continued to grow and military operations now increasingly involved the use of airstrikes, artillery shelling and heavy weaponry against civilians. The latest report detailed a number of incidents being investigated, including hundreds of houses being burned and dozens of people, including children, killed by shelling and military raids. Airstrikes against civilian locations had increased by 141 per cent in the second year of the military takeover, and artillery shelling of communities had increased by over 100 per cent. Incidents in which homes and neighbourhoods were set on fire had risen by 380 per cent in the second year after the coup, leading to an estimated 1,200 per cent increase in the number of homes destroyed. Since the military takeover, some 39,000 structures had been burned, and people unable to flee risked being burned to death. The more than 1.3 million people displaced since the coup began faced destitution. At least 2,947 civilians had been killed by the military since 2021, including 244 children. More than one third of these confirmed deaths occurred in military custody. Cases had been reported of some armed groups attacking and killing civilians perceived to be working for or with the military. These acts constituted murder and needed to be condemned. It was imperative that the military respected the Security Council’s December resolution, and took steps to end the violence. On 1 February 2023, the military extended the state of emergency, subjecting civilians to the expanded jurisdiction of military tribunals, with no right to appeal – even upon imposition of the death penalty. Since February 2021, at least 17,572 people had been arrested (including 381 children) with 13,763 remaining in detention. Across the country, 17.6 million people now needed humanitarian assistance, and over 15.2 million faced acute food insecurity. The Rohingya community still remaining in Myanmar continued to face widespread discrimination. At least 3,500 Rohingya attempted sea crossings in 2022– a 360 per cent increase from 2021. At least 348 of them had died or had gone missing at sea. Mr. Türk appealed to all countries to provide support to people fleeing Myanmar, and to their host communities. There needed to be increased international support, and the continuing proceedings before both the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court warranted every support. Mr. Türk remained concerned by the prospect of new elections taking place in Myanmar and the arbitrary detention of elected political leaders in February 2021. He called on the Council to do its best to deliver humanitarian support directly to Myanmar’s people, and called on United Nations Member States to promote dialogue and sustainable solutions to bring an end to this brutal crisis. Discussion on Myanmar In the discussion, some speakers said, among other things, that since the 1 February 2021 coup, the military had brought Myanmar into a perpetual human rights crisis through continuous human rights violations and violations of international humanitarian law, some of which may amount to international crimes. The consistent tactics and patterns of abuse underscored the military’s responsibility for these violations, including indiscriminate airstrikes and artillery attacks against populated areas, village raids and burnings, arbitrary arrests, use of torture, extrajudicial killings, killing of children, attacks on schools and hospitals, military use of schools, sexual and gender-based violence, severe restrictions of fundamental freedoms and many more, with persons belonging to ethnic or religious minorities such as the Rohingya bearing the brunt. Several speakers expressed continued support to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ five-point consensus, recalling Security Council resolution 26/69 (2022), and demanded an immediate end to all forms of violence throughout the country. United Nations Security Council resolution 26/69 called for the regime to end its violence across the country, release arbitrarily detained prisoners, allow unhindered humanitarian access, protect members of minority groups, and respect the will and democratic aspirations of the people of Myanmar, and there were as yet no signs of results in this direction. Speakers also called for the release of all arbitrarily detained prisoners, the provision of full and unhindered humanitarian access, and the protection of civilians in Myanmar. Further calls were also made for an international arms embargo and targeted economic action to prevent the flow of weapons to the military. The situation in Rakhine state continued to be tense and fragile, speakers noted. Addressing the root causes of the Rohingya crisis was of paramount important in pursuing a durable resolution to the crisis. Both in Myanmar and beyond, the Rohingyas had become more vulnerable to various discrimination, violence, radicalisation and trafficking. The authorities in Myanmar were urged to fully cooperate with international mechanisms, including the Special Envoys of the Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as well as those established by this Council, and to step up their efforts to create conducive conditions that would facilitate safe, dignified and voluntary repatriation, including by ensuring justice and accountability. The international community was urged to apply stronger pressure on the Government of Myanmar, and to stand together to demand an end to the violence and seek a peaceful reconciliation to the crisis. One speaker said the Security Council should refer the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court without delay. The international concerns for a peaceful and prosperous Myanmar must go hand in hand with fulfilling the rights of minorities. All parties should refrain from further violence and the Myanmar authorities should allow access for humanitarian assistance, including through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management. International cooperation should be strengthened to prevent further displacement and find a sustainable solution. Space should be made to ensure a democratic and fruitful dialogue, with the participation of all parties. One speaker spoke of regret that Myanmar had not participated in the discussion, stressing respect for its sovereignty. Some speakers said all parties should speak and work in order to help the parties in Myanmar overcome their divergences and problems in order to overcome their differences, and the international community should respect the territorial integrity and national unity of Myanmar in resolving the situation. Dialogue and reconciliation must be the way forward. To not listen to the State concerned precluded hearing about its efforts and the progress made on the ground. Another speaker called for an end to all unilateral coercive measures imposed on Myanmar, which caused immense suffering to the people on the ground. For a peaceful future, a vibrant and diverse civil society was indispensable, and there was deep concern about the ongoing repression of civil society organizations in Myanmar. Civil society organizations, including human rights defenders, were being monitored, restricted and harassed. The Organization Registration Act that was introduced last year was another blow for civic space, and a speaker applauded Myanmar’s civilian organizations for their courage and resilience. Their work was indispensable for accountability, women empowerment, and giving youth in Myanmar a voice to shape their future. One speaker pointed out that international human rights mechanisms should, however, operate whilst respecting the sovereignty and territoriality of States, and a genuine concern for human rights was required for human rights without politicisation or bias, operating through cooperation with the Government and repudiation of all unilateral coercive measures and other measures imposed upon the country. What measures could be taken to reduce violence against civilians and human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar, as well as to ensure accountability for past and ongoing crimes, a speaker asked? Another asked how could the international community help support civil society and human rights defenders under threat in Myanmar? The international community had an obligation to restore even a sliver of hope. Would the High Commissioner recommend that the international community recognise the National Unity Government as the true Government of Myanmar, a speaker asked? How could the international community support Myanmar’s diverse democratic movement to ensure the protection and promotion of human rights, another speaker asked? How could the international community continue to support civil society organizations that were active in Myanmar under these circumstances, so they survived and played their essential role in the future of Myanmar, another speaker asked? Concluding Remarks VOLKER TÜRK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said this was an extremely troubling situation: Myanmar was in free-fall, and the international community had to respond in the most effective way possible. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ five-point plan, Security Council resolution 26/69, and the Human Rights Council resolutions set out the expectations of the international community, as well as the benchmarks for a solution. The solution against this background was set out, and the international community needed to look at how these various documents had been disrespected by the authorities. Those Member States with any influence over the authorities should work to ensure that there was a change in the country that brought it back to the plight of the people. This required a coordinated and unified approach, and a number of things could be done in addition to what had been said. There needed to be an end to arms being sold, and economic measures. The international community must not be engaged in supporting any electoral process that lacked the ability to ensure the participation of all the people of the country in peace and security. Those involved in civil society and national human rights defenders needed to be seen as key interlocutors for any solution. Regarding accountability for past and present human rights violations, this was key to any solution to the crisis, and whatever emerged as a solution would have to have inherent in it transitional justice. Member States could look at universal jurisdiction for crimes committed in Myanmar. There should be full support, politically- and funding-wise, for the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. The Rohingya, as well as the countries hosting them, required continued support by the international community. The Government of National Unity and all other representatives of Myanmar civil society must be involved in all attempts to restore democracy and ensure fair elections. The threat to civil society organizations was really existential, human rights defenders faced a myriad of issues, problems and potential risks, and it was vital to continue to alert the world of these risks. Donors should look at flexible and creative means of funding for human rights defenders and civil society organizations to ensure that their work continued, including resettlement and even witness protection. Interactive Dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua Report The Council has before it the report by the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua (A/HRC/52/63) Presentation of the Report JAN-MICHAEL SIMON, Chair of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua, presented the conclusions of the investigations carried out by the group over the past year. The Group had investigated alleged human rights abuses and violations committed in Nicaragua since April 2018, to ensure accountability and justice for the victims. The Group had used methodology which included the collection of information from victims and witnesses, as well as the review of judicial records and verified audio visual material. Thanks to technological progress, the team was able to collect information securely and confidentially, including from sources still inside Nicaragua. During the investigation, the Group investigated 149 cases, received more than 150 confidential documents, processed and classified almost 1,500 documents, and conducted 291 face-to-face and remote interviews. Five missions were carried out to areas near the territory of Nicaragua. It had not been possible to carry out investigatory activities in the territory of Nicaragua since access had not been granted by the Nicaraguan Government. Between June and December 2022, 12 communications were sent to the Government of Nicaragua, to request a country visit, open channels of dialogue, and for data and information. The report was sent to the Government for comment before publishing it, but no response had been received, which was regretful. The Group remained open to channels of cooperation and dialogue with Nicaragua. Based on the information analysed, Mr. Simon said that the Group concluded that serious and systematic human rights violations and abuses of human rights took place in Nicaragua during the period covered by the report, perpetuated by government representatives, and those from pro-government groups. Violations included extrajudicial executions, arbitrary detentions, torture and cruel treatment including acts of sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary deprivation of nationality, and violations of the right to remain in the country, among others. These violations were perpetrated against genuine and perceived opponents of the Nicaraguan Government. The Expert Group concluded that the violations were committed as pattern of behaviour which was generalised and systematic. These violations constituted crimes against humanity. These crimes against humanity were committed within the framework of a discriminatory policy against part of the population of Nicaragua, for political motives, intentionally organised from the highest levels of government. Mr. Simon said that the prevailing impunity for the crimes facilitated the escalation of violence. The conclusions reached by the Group were sufficient to justify further investigations. It was recommended that the Nicaraguan authorities immediately release all persons arbitrarily deprived of their liberty, and put an immediate end to violations, abuses and crimes, including persecution for politically motivated reasons. The State should also ensure accountability for victims and implement the necessary measures to guarantee the separation of powers. Nicaragua should cooperate with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. It was hoped the independent inquiry could bring victims closer to justice. Statement by the Country Concerned Nicaragua, speaking as the country concerned, said the Government of reconciliation and national unity wished to formally indicate that it had not nor would it ever accept the unilateral appointment of the Members of the Group of Experts in any way, shape or form. This group was nothing less than a smokescreen in order to allow the fabrication of facts. The input to it came from certain opposition elements in the country that were putting forth false narratives directed by imperialist powers with the aim of interfering in the nation. No reports were accepted, as they ran counter to the over-arching interests of the State, which was aiming to ensure human rights across the board. Nicaragua did not wish these reports to continue to undermine its institutions and legal order. The reports did not reflect the most basic progress, such as in education, women’s rights, and poverty reduction. Any recommendations put forward lacked objectivity and were tantamount to coercion, since they undermined the efforts of all Nicaraguans. Nicaragua was strengthened in its resolve to achieve the highest levels of democratic success, respecting international law and defending it, and called for equal consideration for all. Discussion on Nicaragua In the ensuing discussion, speakers expressed, among other things, outrage for the serious and systematic human rights violations laid out in the reports, including crimes against humanity. The report left no doubt regarding the grave seriousness of the human rights situation in Nicaragua, which continued to deteriorate, and could lead to an even graver humanitarian crisis. The Government should work to ensure the human rights of all Nicaraguans, and ensure accountability and justice for all for the human rights violations listed in the report, including allegations of torture and grave violations of civil and political rights. There was also concern for the disappearance of indigenous persons, and the instrumentalisation of the legislative system to ensure impunity. The authorities should grant access to the country for the Group of Experts, and resume collaboration with it and other international bodies. The international community should not forget that arbitrary detention and the inhumane treatment of political prisoners were not the only instruments by which civil society and human rights defenders were persecuted in the country. The authorities should put an end to any such measures, to restore the fundamental rights of denaturalised dissidents, to stop human rights violations, to restore democracy and to re-engage with the international community. Impunity for human rights violations must end, and all restrictions on civic space must end, with all persons granted the rights of assembly, dissent and expression. Multiple speakers welcomed the release of 222 political prisoners by the Government of Nicaragua, but remained gravely concerned about the deterioration of human rights and the rule of law, noting that following their expulsion, the regime stripped these individuals, as well as 94 others of their citizenship and reportedly seized their property in Nicaragua. These deplorable acts signalled a significant step backward for the Nicaraguan people and were inconsistent with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which provided that everyone had a right to a nationality. The conclusion of the Group of Experts that crimes may have been committed as part of a policy emitting from the highest spheres of Government against certain parts of the population was of grave concern, and there should be full and fair investigations ensuring accountability, justice and reparations for victims. Laws should be repealed limiting access to human rights and fundamental freedoms. The authorities’ refusal to appear before the Committee against Torture last July was deplored, and speakers urged Nicaragua to resume cooperation with the various United Nations mechanisms which had requested access to the country. Another speaker asked how the international community could help the Group of Experts to achieve its mandate and meet its objectives. The work of the Experts was appreciated, and speakers asked, among other things, what could be done to support the work of civil society organizations within the country? One speaker appealed to the Council to renew the mandate of the Group..."
Source/publisher: United Nations Human Rights Council
2023-03-06
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-06
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 27 February, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of March 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Humanitarian needs are rising across Myanmar and the operational environment is tightening. Martial law is now declared in 47 townships across multiple states and regions. • Concerns persist around the impact of new registration requirements on humanitarian operations. • In the first two months of 2023, more than 154,000 people have been internally displaced and are living in precarious conditions in camps and informal sites often in jungles and forests. This brings the total number of IDPs since the military takeover to 1.3 million. As of 27 February, more than 1.6 million remain displaced from previous and current conflicts. • Heavy fighting continues, particularly in Kachin, the Southeast, and Northwest, endangering lives and hampering humanitarian operations. • The ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) in Rakhine is still holding and the access environment has improved. • Humanitarians reached a record 4.4 million people with assistance in 2022, however the support was not as deep or multi-sectoral as planned due to access constraints and severe underfunding. • Some 17.6 million people - nearly one third of the population - are estimated to be in humanitarian need in 2023. The humanitarian community has prioritized support for 4.5 million people with severe needs, predominantly in conflict affected rural areas. • Generous funding to the US$764m Humanitarian Response Plan for 2023 is critically important to make this work possible. KEY FIGURES* 1.6M Total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 1.3M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 328K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 55K Civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021. *Displacement figures fluctuate during any given month. These figures represent the number of people currently verified as displaced. Cumulative numbers for returns and displacement are not always available. SITUATION OVERVIEW Two months into 2023, reports of civilian casualties, displacement and destruction of civilian properties have continued. As of 27 February 2023, more than 1.6 million remained displaced across the country, according to the latest UN figures. This includes more than 1.3 million people who were displaced since the military takeover and more than 328,000 people who were displaced from previous conflicts. Of the total IDPs since the military takeover, the Northwest is hosting the highest number - now 915,000 people - followed by the Southeast - 379,200 people. IDPs are living in precarious situations in camps and informal sites, often in jungles and forests, with large-scale returns impossible due to the intensity of fighting, landmines, destruction of homes through aerial bombardment, and loss of livelihoods. Humanitarian partners estimate that 17.6 million people are in need in 2023. The 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan targets 4.5 million people with the most severe needs, predominantly in conflict-affected rural areas. This will require the removal of physical and bureaucratic impediments to humanitarian access and more generous funding than was received last year (41 per cent of requirements in 2022). Two months into 2023, the humanitarian response plan is only two per cent funded. Generous funding for humanitarian interventions this year is critical. In 2022, humanitarians were able to reach a record 4.4 million people, including 750,00 IDPs, with at least one form of assistance, at least once, however the assistance wasn’t as deep, multi-sectoral or sustained as planned due to underfunding and severe access constraints. This reach includes 900,000 people in the Southeast, more than 660,000 people in Rakhine, more than 500,000 people in the Northeast and almost 270,000 people in the Northwest..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-03-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 487.13 KB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering non-violent movements, conflict trends, human rights violations, and humanitarian developments up to 28 February is produced by Southern Monitor, a local research group. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES On 2 February 2023, the State Administration Council (SAC) declared martial law in Palaw and Tanintharyi townships and increased military presence in the area. In February 2023, a total of 37 armed clashes erupted across all districts in Tanintharyi Region, showing an increase in armed conflict. A total of 34 deaths and 10 injured due to attacks targeting civilians were reported in February 2023. More than 200 civilians’ houses were burned down by junta forces in Palaw township. The number of non-violent movements in Tanintharyi Region increased as protesters staged “silent strikes” across the region. Local Karen CSOs urged Karen Nation Union (KNU) and Kaw Thoo Lei Army to cease fighting and resolve the conflict peacefully. KEY FIGURES 3701 Nonviolent actions mobilized by activist groups between February 2021 and February 2023 998 Violent incidents occurred in the region between February 2021 and February 2023 394 People killed by conflict actors between February 2021 and February 2023 28K People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021..."
Source/publisher: Southern Monitor (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-02-28
Date of entry/update: 2023-03-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.08 MB
more
Description: "1.As more than two years have passed since the coup d'état on February 1, 2021, various parts of the country are still experiencing violence. As a result, the humanitarian situation in Myanmar continues to deteriorate further. According to the Humanitarian Response Plan for Myanmar announced by the United Nations on January 25, 17.6 million people, including internally displaced persons, are in need of humanitarian assistance. 2.Under these circumstances, the Government of Japan has provided a total of more than US$47 million in humanitarian assistance since the coup d'état, through international organizations and NGOs etc., directly benefiting the people of Myanmar. 3.In response to the rapid increase of the need of humanitarian assistance due to deteriorating situation since last year, the Government of Japan has decided to provide additional humanitarian assistance totaling approximately US$60.3 million (approximately 7 billion 77.7 million yen). Specifically, through international organizations such as UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP and AHA Centre, the Government of Japan will provide food, medical items and shelters as well as water and sanitation infrastructure, nutrition improvement, medical services, access to education, and measures to combat illegal drugs. 4.The Government of Japan will continue to actively provide humanitarian assistance, while urging the Myanmar side to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access..."
Source/publisher: Government of Japan
2023-02-28
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-28
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "KEY DISPLACEMENT FIGURES 73,000 Estimated refugee movements to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 1,086,000 Refugees and asylum-seekers from Myanmar in neighbouring countries as of 30 June 2022 1,254,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021 Source: UN in Myanmar 1,584,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 30 January 2023 HIGHLIGHTS According to the UN, an estimated 1,584,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) were reported across the country as of 30 January 2023, including 1,254,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021. In the North-West, conflict continued to intensify across Chin State and Sagaing and Magway Regions following a reported increase in air strikes, landmine incidents, arbitrary arrests and the destruction of properties. Indiscriminate fire in Chin and Sagaing resulted in new displacements and cross-border movements between Myanmar and India. IDPs and host communities are also experiencing shortages of food and other basic necessities due to movement restrictions. In the South-East, conflict in various parts of the region impeded access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods. An uptick in airstrikes, indiscriminate shelling and explosions close to town centres in multiple States and Regions, including Kayin State, Mon State, Bago (East) and Tanintharyi Regions, was reported. IDPs remained concerned about their reduced access to food and basic commodities, particularly in Kayah and Shan (South) States and Tanintharyi Region. In Kachin and Shan (North), frequent airstrikes, shelling and explosive remnants are putting civilian lives at risk. Arbitrary arrests, forced labour and the destruction and theft of civilian properties was also reported. In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, the informal November 2022 ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Tatmadaw continues to hold althoug remains fragile amid fears conflict will resume at the end of the cultivation season. Communities are vigilant and limiting their movement in case the ceasefire unravels. The humanitarian response in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Mrauk-U, Minbya and Myebon is focused on life-saving support (food and healthcare) following the introduction of new restrictions on UN agencies and INGOs by the de facto authorities in mid-September 2022. RESPONSE Myanmar In Kachin and Shan (North) States, IDPs pursued avenues that allow them to rebuild their lives despite the limited prospects for lasting solutions after the events of February 2021. In this regard, UNHCR and partners completed a pilot programme providing small grants for various community-led projects in six solutions sites in Bhamo Township, Kachin State. These grants act as ‘seed money’ and are designed to encourage communities to use their own resources and assets to improve their environment. Through these grants, the communities were able to facilitate road rehabilitation work, expand access to clean water supplies, and support community halls. In addition, UNHCR and partners distributed various core relief items (CRIs), including mosquito nets, sleeping mats, blankets, and buckets to 1,169 IDPs (270 families). As part of the COVID-19 response, over 7,000 face masks were also distributed in IDP camps in Kachin State..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva)
2023-02-17
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-17
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 38.23 MB
more
Description: "In late-November / early-December the MAU conducted a second-round survey of displaced households in Chin State to understand challenges they face. The study is based on a probability sample representing 1900 households currently or previously enrolled in cash assistance programs. MAU reports are available online at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit. KEY FINDINGS Seventy-nine percent of IDP households were still displaced in early-December, and 15% were returnees; The portion of IDPs living in temporary shelters rose and the portion in displaced sites fell, while three-in-five IDP households continued to live in host homes; Ten percent of IDP households were living outside their original township, and 3% had left Chin State; Security and food access improved since September, but health care and nutrition remained poor for many; Access to medicines worsened in December and health care remained poor for more than half; Fewer households described their freedom of movement as poor, but one-quarter were still unable to travel to a food market in the past thirty days; More households used cash assistance to buy food compared to three months earlier, and fewer used credit; Food insecurity measures improved, likely due to changes in security, mobility and seasonal supply. The number of displaced persons in Chin State grew in late-2022, despite reports of fewer conflict events. According to data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Project (ACLED), the number of conflict-related events in Chin State declined from September to December 2022, reaching their lowest point in more than one year (see Figure 1).1 UN estimates also suggest slower growth in the number of IDP in Chin State during part of this period. IDP counts in Chin State were unchanged in September and October, although in November they increased from 45,800 to 53,700.2 Indeed, Chin State continued to experience clashes in late-2022, and many IDPs struggled not only with the continued threat of armed conflict but also poor access to nutritious food, health care, education and adequate livelihood opportunities to meet their basic needs. As armed conflict continues to disrupt critical market systems, more data is needed on the conditions of IDPs in Chin State. The MAU surveyed current and former IDP households primarily from Thantlang township about their living conditions and market access. The survey of roughly 380 households represents a population of more than 1900 currently- or previously-displaced households which enrolled in one or more cash assistance programs. The study focussed on displacement status, household living conditions, financial resources, access to markets/ goods and food security. The study is not intended to represent all IDPs in Chin State, nor is it intended as an evaluation of the effectiveness of cash programs there. The study includes the results of an earlier survey of the same population in late-August / early-September 2022..."
Source/publisher: Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-02-14
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-14
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 3.53 MB
more
Description: "Highlights: Myanmar continues to experience a severe - and worsening - humanitarian and human rights crisis. Conflict and violence have escalated across the country, impacting children and their families and displacing more than 1.5 million people. Access of conflict-affected populations to services and delivery of humanitarian assistance has been further constrained by restrictions imposed on movement of both people and goods. Grave violations of child rights have increased in 2022 compared with 2021.There has also been an eightfold increase in the number of abductions in 2022. As of December 2022 at least 670 children had been killed or maimed by armed actors since the military takeover in February 2021 In 2022, UNICEF received US$ 33.92 million, representing 22 per cent of its Myanmar Humanitarian Action for Children appeal of US$ 151.4 million. Despite the gap, UNICEF and its partner reached close to one million children and their families. FUNDING OVERVIEW AND PARTNERSHIPS In 2022, Myanmar continued to struggle with unprecedented political, socioeconomic and human rights issues and humanitarian crises. The 2022 Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview estimated that 14.4 million people, including 5 million children, needed assistance. UNICEF Myanmar Country Office appealed for US$151.4 million to help displaced people and host communities across the country. Despite a number of challenges: restrictions in accessing affected communities, high levels of uncertainty about security and the funding gap significantly impacted the programmes, UNICEF was able to reach close to 1 million children and their families. By the end of 2022, UNICEF Myanmar had received US$33.92 million (including US$10.74 million carried forward from 2021), representing 22 per cent of the amount appealed for. The funding was generously contributed by the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), the European Commission's Humanitarian Office (ECHO), the German Federal Foreign Office, the Global Thematic Fund, Denmark, Japan, Norway, the Korean Committee for UNICEF, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) and the World Health Organization. These funds were used to deliver much needed services in nutrition, health, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education and child protection. In 2023, UNICEF, with continued support from the donors, will scale up programmes and approaches to reach more vulnerable children and communities. UNICEF expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions in supporting the children of Myanmar..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-02-13
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-13
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 7.1 MB
more
Description: "Free Online Education Institution Myanmar (FOEIM) ဖြစ်စဉ်နှင့် ပတ်သက်၍ ပညာရေးဝန်ကြီးဌာနမှ ဆောင်ရွက်မှုများအား ထုတ်ပြန်ကြေညာခြင်း ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလ (၁၀) ရက် နှင့် Free Online Education Institution Myanmar (FOEIM) ဖြစ်စဉ်အတွက် ဖွဲ့စည်းပေးထားသော ကြားနာစုံစမ်းရေးအဖွဲ့၏ အပြီးသတ် အစီရင်ခံစာ ထုတ်ပြန်ကြေညာခြင်း ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဇန်နဝါရီလ (၉) ရက်..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-02-10
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-10
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.17 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering non-violent movements, conflict trends, human rights violations, and humanitarian developments up to 31 January is produced by Southern Monitor, a local research group. The next monthly situation update will be issued in February 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES In January 2023, a total of 33 armed clashes erupted across all districts in Tanintharyi Region, showing an increase in armed conflict. A total of 33 casualties (25 deaths and 8 injured) due to attacks targeting civilians were reported in January 2023. More than 33 civilians’ houses were burned down by junta forces following armed clashes in Palaw and Dawei Townships. More than 7,000 people are displaced in Tanintharyi Region. Humanitarian assistance has been largely impeded due to access constraints, and a widespread ban on transport of dry rations and medicines. Displaced populations are in dire need of dry rations, adequate shelter and warm clothing..."
Source/publisher: Southern Monitor (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-02-05
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-05
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1.27 MB
more
Description: "ပြည်ထောင်စုသမ္မတမြန်မာနိုင်ငံတော် အမျိုးသားညီညွတ်ရေးအစိုးရ ပညာရေးဝန်ကြီးဌာန https://moe.nugmyanmar.org ကြေညာချက်အမှတ် (၄/၂၀၂၃) ၁၃၈၄ ခုနှစ်၊ တပို့တွဲလပြည့်နေ့ ( ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလ ၄ ရက် ) ကြားကာလအခြေခံပညာပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်းများအဖြစ် အသိအမှတ်ပြုကြောင်း ကြေညာချက်..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-02-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 253.93 KB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 27 January, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of February 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Two years since the 2021 military takeover, humanitarian needs are on the rise and the operational environment is further worsening. • 17.6 million people - nearly one third of the population - are estimated to be in humanitarian need in 2023. • The humanitarian community has launched a $764m Response Plan for 2023. It prioritizes 4.5 million people with severe needs for life saving support, predominantly in conflict-affected rural areas. • Heavy fighting, including airstrikes, tight security, access restrictions, and threats against aid workers have continued unabated, particularly in the Southeast, endangering lives and hampering humanitarian operations. • As of 23 January, 1.2 million people remain displaced by conflict and insecurity since the military takeover in February 2021, bringing the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) across Myanmar to more than 1.5 million. • Since the pause in fighting between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) in Rakhine, the access environment has slowly improved although the ceasefire remains fragile. • Humanitarians are closely monitoring the impact of new NGO registration requirements on the delivery of life-saving support in 2023. • Despite severe access constraints and drastic underfunding, humanitarians were able to deliver life-saving assistance to more than 3.9 million people in 2022. KEY FIGURES 1.5M Total people currently internally displaced across Myanmar 1.2M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 330K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 39K Civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021. *Displacement figures fluctuate during any given month. These figures represent the number of people currently displaced. Cumulative numbers for returns and displacement are not always available. SITUATION OVERVIEW Two years since the 2021 military takeover, the people of Myanmar continue to endure a political, human rights, health, economic and humanitarian crisis that has caused civilian casualties and a surge in displacement, pushed thousands into poverty, and exposed people to daily protection threats. The 2023 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) estimates that 17.6 million - almost one in three Myanmar people - are now in humanitarian need. Increasing numbers of people are now facing daily protection threats and are living in fear amid the violence sweeping the country. In 2023, protection risks including killing and injury due to heavy fighting and landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW), arrest and detention, forced recruitment, and human trafficking among others, continue to prevail, especially in hardto-reach conflict areas. As of 23 January, 1.2 million people remain displaced by conflict and insecurity since the military takeover in February 2021, bringing the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) across Myanmar to more than 1.5 million. With surging displacement, the resources of host communities and those on the move are being rapidly depleted. Nutritious food is becoming increasingly scarce and more unaffordable due to inflation. Parents are worrying about their children’s future prospects after years of missed schooling, while the sick are continuing to miss out on medicines and life-saving treatment because of health service interruptions. Stateless Rohingya people continue to face restrictions on their movement that have left them almost completely dependent on assistance for survival. The grim situation outlined in the HNO makes a scaled-up, context-adapted, and people-centered humanitarian response essential in 2023 to prevent loss of life and reduce suffering. The 2023 Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) requests US$764 million to reach 4.5 million people most in need of life-saving humanitarian support, predominantly in conflict-affected rural areas. The Plan is heavily prioritized and makes a compelling case for a more robust donor contribution to the response that will be delivered through a new fit-for-purpose coordination architecture and an enhanced localization strategy. The 2023 plan focuses on hard-to-reach rural areas and those with the most severe needs while being realistic about potential reach given access and capacity constraints. The Plan outlines the dire need for improved humanitarian access to conflict-affected areas and the removal of bureaucratic obstacles to the delivery of assistance. Heading into 2023, humanitarian organizations are facing an increasingly constrained operational environment. Bureaucratic and physical impediments to access are hampering the ability of humanitarian partners to provide protection and assistance. Humanitarians are closely monitoring the impacts of new NGO registration requirements introduced by the de facto authorities amid fears they will limit the ability of many organizations to deliver assistance and result in escalating unmet needs. The humanitarian community has proposed a six-month moratorium on implementation of the requirements to allow time to ensure services are not interrupted..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-02-02
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 646.82 KB
more
Description: "အမျိုးသားညီညွတ်ရေးအစိုးရ၊ ပညာရေးဝန်ကြီးဌာနမှ အခြေခံပညာပြီးမြောက်ကြောင်း စစ်ဆေးအကဲဖြတ်ခြင်းကို ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလမှ ဧပြီလအထိ ပထမအကြိမ်နှင့် ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဩဂုတ်လမှ အောက်တိုဘာလအထိ ဒုတိယအကြိမ် ကျင်းပမည်ဖြစ်ကြောင်း ကြေညာခဲ့ပြီး ဖြစ်သည်နှင့်အညီ ၁။ အွန်လိုင်း (Online) ဖြင့် ဖြေဆိုရန် လျှောက်ထားခဲ့ကြသည့် သတ်မှတ်ချက်နှင့် ကိုက်ညီသော ကျောင်းသား၊ ကျောင်းသူများသည် ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီလ (၂) ရက်နေ့မှ စတင် ဖြေဆိုနိုင်ပြီဖြစ်ကြောင်းနှင့် ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဧပြီလ (၃၀) ရက်နေ့တွင် ပထမအကြိမ်ဖြေဆိုခြင်း ပြီးစီးမည် ဖြစ်ကြောင်း ကြေညာအပ်ပါသည်။ ၂။ မြေပြင် (On-ground) တွင် ဖြေဆိုရန် လျှောက်ထားခဲ့ကြသည့် ကျောင်းသား၊ ကျောင်းသူများ သည် မိမိတို့ သက်ဆိုင်ရာ မြို့နယ်၊ စာဖြေဌာနများ၏ သတ်မှတ်ရက်တွင် စတင်ဖြေဆိုနိုင်ပြီ ဖြစ်ကြောင်း ကြေညာအပ်ပါသည်။..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-02-02
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-02
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 173.56 KB
more
Description: "The EU has released over €43 million to address the humanitarian needs of people in Myanmar, as well as those of Rohingya refugees and their host communities in Bangladesh. In Myanmar, the EU will provide over €18 million to respond to the dramatic escalation in needs following the military takeover of 2021. The funding will allow humanitarian partners to ensure the provision of life-saving support such as protection, food, shelter, healthcare and education. The EU will also continue to support the efforts of Bangladesh in responding to the Rohingya refugee crisis by providing over €23 million, part of which will also contribute to implement disaster preparedness programmes in the country. A further dedicated allocation of €2 million will help address the needs of Rohingya and other refugees in neighbouring countries, such as Indonesia and Malaysia. Background In Myanmar, 17.6 million people are expected to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023, a dramatic increase from 1 million in 2021. A third of those in need are children. Over 5 years after large-scale violence forced hundreds of thousands of Rohingya people to flee Rakhine State in Myanmar, Bangladesh still hosts almost 1 million refugees. Rohingya refugees live in precarious and deteriorating conditions, with the majority located in the congested refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, where they are entirely dependent on humanitarian aid. The EU has been providing humanitarian aid to people in Myanmar since 1994, and in Bangladesh since 2002. With this additional funding, EU humanitarian aid for Myanmar now totals over €68 million since 2021. Support for Rohingya refugees, their host communities, and disaster preparedness efforts in Bangladesh since the beginning of the Rohingya crisis in 2017 now stands at over €242 million..."
Source/publisher: European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations
2023-02-01
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-01
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 32.81 KB
more
Description: "February 1st marks the second anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar. As of 23 January 2023 (UNHCR), the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) reached to 1.2 million since the coup – it previously was 330,000. The ongoing crisis has disrupted access to safe, inclusive, and quality education for children and youth with the potential of creating a lost generation. The Universal Declaration for Human Rights outlines 30 rights and freedoms that belong to all people including the right to education. Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is committed to ensuring that children who are forced to flee their homes and communities are not deprived of their right to education and their path to a hopeful and productive future. Education provides stability and a sense of normalcy; it engenders hope while preparing refugees to meet future challenges. Today, children in Myanmar cannot access basic learning, let alone higher education, due to the current conflict. Education is disrupted, schools are attacked, and many are closed. Children are forced to flee from one place to another making it nearly impossible to go to school. Without the ability to exercise their basic rights and fundamental freedoms, they will not be able to determine their own future. The Story of Tinwin: The Transformative Power of the Storybook Tinwin, a seven-year-old boy, lives in a temporary site fleeing from the life-threatening violence occurring in his hometown. While the temporary site is called “temporary”, he has no idea how long this momentariness of fear and displacement would last. He and his family have been living in this temporary shelter for already a year. After he arrived at the temporary site, he did not want to go to school because he was afraid that his family would run away. When a child has no idea what’s going to happen to their life and family tomorrow, it is very difficult to trust that everything will be fine. He also really missed his home and his friends in the neighborhood. Amidst the distress, what could calm Tinwin down is the storybook. The colorful book with images could bring him to another fantasy world. A place where there is no fear. Tinwin usually asks his mother to read out the stories for him. The storybook is what makes him smile. “He will ask me to read books, and if he likes the story, he asks me to read again and again, and I have to read it repeatedly,” says his mother. Over time, his mother has observed positive changes in him. He’s no longer afraid to go to school and sometimes brings friends home to read books together. He will ask me to read books, and if he likes the story, he asks me to read again and again. TINWIN'S MOTHER The mother, a person who read the storybook for Tinwin, observed a big change in Tinwin’s mind. Every time they are exploring the imaginary world, Tinwin is calm, happy, and has no worries. The storybook is not only important for Tinwin himself but also for his family, who really love and care about his feelings. Tinwin started to bring friends home to read the storybook and play. It is difficult for a child to think of the future when there is no sense of safety and certainty. However, Tinwin has a strong belief in his dream. Tinwin wants to be a doctor. “I want to put medicines to the wound like a medic.” The story of Tinwin reflects how much education can impact the life of a child and why education should not be under attack in times of conflict. Rather, investments in school materials, infrastructure, and teachers are critical for the people of Myanmar and all children and youth affected by conflict and crisis. JRS calls for displaced children inside and outside Myanmar to have access to humanitarian assistance including safe, inclusive, uninterrupted, and quality education programs. The shooting, shelling, and bombing of schools and community buildings must cease immediately. The lack of attention from the international community has prolonged this crisis and an immediate solution through peaceful political mechanisms must be achieved. After two years of violence and destruction, the people of Myanmar deserve more and must not be forgotten..."
Source/publisher: Jesuit Refugee Service
2023-02-01
Date of entry/update: 2023-02-01
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Sub-title: ကြားကာလအခြေခံပညာပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်းများအဖြစ် အသိအမှတ်ပြုကြောင်း ကြေညာချက်
Description: "၁။ အမျိုးသားညီညွတ်ရေးအစိုးရ၊ ပညာရေးဝန်ကြီးဌာနသည် ... ပညာသင်ယူခွင့်ဆုံးရှုံးနေသော ကျောင်းသား၊ ကျောင်းသူများအတွက် ကြားကာလ ပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်းများ ဖွင့်လှစ်ကာ စဉ်ဆက်မပြတ် ပညာသင်ကြားရေးကို အကောင်အထည်ဖော် ဆောင်ရွက်လျက်ရှိပါသည်။ ၂။ ပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်း အသိအမှတ်ပြုမူဝါဒ (၁၁)ချက်နှင့် Information and Technology Security Guideline များကို လိုက်နာဆောင်ရွက်ပါမည်ဟု... ဝန်ခံကတိပြုထားသည့် အောက်ဖော်ပြပါ Online ကျောင်းများကို “ကြားကာလအခြေခံပညာ ပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျောင်း” အဖြစ် အသိအမှတ်ပြုကြောင်း ကြေညာလိုက်သည်။ (၁) Federal School of Aung Myay Thar Zan (FSOAZ) (၂) Essential Education Center (EEC) (၃) Lighting For Future (LFF) Online School (၄) Magway Federal School (၅Federal Education Of Yankin Online School (၆) Interim Basic Education School (Thingangyun) (၇) Spring Education Taunggyi - SET (၈) Yarmanya Federal Education School (YFES) (၉) ACADEMY FEDERAL SCHOOL (ACFS) (၁၀) Free Interim Education Organisation Pyay (FIEOP) NMF-DLS9-17, [1/24/2023 12:21 PM] (၁၁) Board of Bahan (BOB) (၁၂) ရေစကြိုဖက်ဒရယ်အထက်တန်းကျောင်း (Yesagyo Federal High School, YFHS) (၁၃) New Myanmar Education (NME) (၁၄) Yadanabon Federal School (၁၅) နွေဦးဖက်ဒရယ်အထက်တန်းကျောင်း (၁၆) Sinbaungwe Federal School & New Dawn Education (SBW & NDE) (၁၇) Taungoo District Federal School - TDFS (၁၈) Phan Khar Myay Federal School (၁၉) NaypyiTaw Freedom Education (NFE) (၂၀) Myeik Education Free Online School (MEFOS) (၂၁) Pakokku Federal School (၂၂) Federal Democracy School (၂၃) ဘုရားသုံးဆူ ဖက်ဒရယ်ကျောင်း (၂၄) Kyaukpadaung Federal School (၂၅) Home Based Learning (Htantabin) (၂၆) Sagaing Federal School (၂၇) တံတားနီအခြေခံပညာမူလတန်းကျောင်း (၂၈) မန္တလေးဖက်ဒရယ်ကျောင်း (JC) True Sunshine for Future Dawei School (၃၀) Free Online Education School Pathein (FOESP) (၃၁) Yephyu Education Family Online School (YEFOS) (၃၂) Home-Based Learning Hlaing Thayar Township Online Class (၃၃) Thanlyin Home Based Learning School ၃။ စိစစ်ဆဲ Online ကျောင်းများကိုလည်း အသိအမှတ်ပြုကြောင်း ဆက်လက်ထုတ်ပြန် ကြေညာ ထုတ်ပေးရေးကိစ္စများကိုလည်း ဆောင်ရွက်လျက်ရှိပါသည်။ မြေပြင်ပြည်သူ့ပညာရေးကျာင်းများအား အသိအမှတ်ပြုလက်မှတ်ပေးသွားမည်ဖြစ်သည်။ ..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education, National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-01-23
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-23
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 339.86 KB
more
Description: "KEY DISPLACEMENT FIGURES: 72,000 Estimated refugee movements to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 1,086,000 Refugees and asylum-seekers from Myanmar in neighbouring countries as of 30 June 2022 1,215,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021 Source: UN in Myanmar 1,545,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 9 January 2023 Source: UN in Myanmar HIGHLIGHTS According to the UN, an estimated 1,545,000 people were reported internally displaced within Myanmar as of 9 January, including 1,215,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021. In Kachin and Shan (North), the protection risks faced by many communities continued to increase because of the intensifying conflict. In response, communities limited their own movements (particularly in the evenings) due to the risk of forced recruitment, robbery, physical assault, and arbitrary arrests. The situation has also been further compounded by their inadequate access to livelihoods, which is making it difficult for communities to meet their basic needs. In the North-West, the security situation remained volatile across Chin State and Sagaing and Magway Regions, as indiscriminate attacks continue to drive displacement. Movement restrictions have also pushed up the cost of essential goods and sparked shortages of food and other basic commodities. In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, following the announcement of an informal ceasefire between the Tatmadaw and the Arakan Army (AA) in late November 2022, roadways were reopened to enable the movement of civilians and goods between Yangon-Sittwe and within most of Rakhine State (North). However, rising criminality in Rakhine North (State) continues to exacerbate insecurity. Currently, most of the humanitarian response in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Mrauk-U, Minbya and Myebon remains limited to life-saving activities such as food and health after de facto authorities introduced new restrictions on UN agencies and INGOs in mid-September 2022. In the South-East, the security situation across all states and regions remained unpredictable with frequent airstrikes and indiscriminate shelling being reported. Access to education continued to be challenging for many children, which increased their exposure to negative coping mechanisms such as child labour. Limited access to food, shelter materials and basic medicine were other challenges brought about by the volatile context..."
Source/publisher: UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
2023-01-16
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-16
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 12.14 MB
more
Description: "1. U Kaung Khant Kyaw, a 27-year-old CDM teacher from Myan-Aung Township, Ayeyarwaddy Region had been arbitrarily arrested and jailed in October 2021 at Hinthada Prison. 2. In August 2022, a biased court controlled by the military junta without the power to govern the legal and justice systems, Hinthada District Court, heard the case, and he was sentenced to a 5-year prison term according to S. 50(j) of the Anti-Terrorism Act. Again, on December 30, 2022, the Myan-Aung District Court sentenced U Kaung Khant Kyaw to death according to Section 302(a) of the Penal Code and promptly moved him to the Pathein Prison. 3. According to media sources, the terrorist military group is torturing political prisoners in Pathein Prison under duress. The terrorist military group has been committing crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide for which they will be held accountable. 4. The unjustified detention and sentencing to death by a terrorist group of a young teacher who is a valuable human resource for the nation is a violation of his right to life and his political freedom as mandated by international human rights law. 5. The terrorist military group's implication of the death penalty is a violation of the peace and security mechanism of the United Nations. This mechanism was used when the Security Council of the United Nations adopted Resolution No. (2669/2022) and called for the release of political prisoners. 6. The Ministry of Education has administered to collect and keep records of human rights violations, has worked hard to gain justice. We will keep fighting until the uprising is successful, and will stand in solidarity with the students, workers, farmers, and workers who are being tortured and killed all over the country..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-01-11
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-16
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 39.41 KB
more
Description: "စီဒီအမ်ဆရာ ဆရာ ဦးကောင်းခန့်ကျော်အား သေဒဏ်ချမှတ်ခဲ့ခြင်းနှင့် ပတ်သက်သည့် ထုတ်ပြန်ချက် စာအမှတ်။ ကြေညာချက်အမှတ် (၁/၂၀၂၃) ရက်စွဲ။ ၂၀၂၃ ခုနှစ်၊ ဇန်နဝါရီလ (၁၁) ရက် ၁။ အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စုသည် ဧရာ၀တီတိုင်း မြန်အောင်မြို့တွင် နေထိုင်သူ အသက် (၂၇) နှစ် အရွယ် CDM ဆရာ ဦးကောင်းခန့်ကျော်ကို ၂၀၂၁ ခုနှစ်၊ အောက်တိုဘာလတွင် မတရား ဖမ်းဆီးခဲ့ပြီးနောက် ဟင်္သာတထောင်၌ အကျဥ်းချ ထားခဲ့သည်။ ၂။ တရားမဝင်အာဏာသိမ်းစစ်အုပ်စုသည် တရားစီရင်ရေးယန္တရားကို လည်ပတ်ရန် အခွင့်အာဏာ မရှိဘဲ စစ်အုပ်စု၏ ထိန်းချုပ်ခံ ဘက်လိုက်သောတရားရုံးဖြစ်သည့် ဟင်္သာတခရိုင် တရားရုံးတွင် စစ်ဆေးပြီး ၂၀၂၂ ခုနှစ်၊ သြဂုတ်လ တွင် အကြမ်းဖက်မှု တိုက်ဖျက်ရေး ဥပဒေ ပုဒ်မ ၅၀(ည) ဖြင့် ထောင်ဒဏ် ၅ နှစ် ချခဲ့သည်။၊ တဖန် ၂၀၂၂ ခုနှစ်၊ ဒီဇင်ဘာလ (၃၀) ရက်နေ့ တွင် မြန်အောင်ခရိုင် တရားရုံးက ရာဇသတ်ကြီး ဥပဒေ ပုဒ်မ ၃၀၂(က) ဖြင့် သေဒဏ်ချမှတ်ခဲ့ပြီး ဆရာဦးကောင်းခန့်ကျော်အား ပုသိမ်အကျဥ်းထောင်သို့ ချက်ချင်းရွှေ့ခဲ့သည်ဟု သိရှိရသည်။ ၃။ အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စုသည် ပုသိမ်အကျဥ်းထောင်တွင်း နိုင်ငံရေးအကျဥ်းသားများကို ညှင်းပန်းနှိပ်စက်မှုများအား အဓမ္မ ပြုလုပ်နေသည်ဟု မီဒီယာများတွင် ဖော်ပြနေသည်။ အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စု၏ လူသားမျိုးနွယ်အပေါ် ကျူးလွန်သော ရာဇ၀တ်မှုများ၊ စစ်ရာဇဝတ် မှုများ၊ လူမျိုးသုဉ်သတ်ဖြတ်မှုများအတွက် အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စုအနေဖြင့် တာ၀န်ယူ၊ တာ၀န်ခံရမည် ဖြစ်သည်။ ၄။ တိုင်းပြည်အတွက် အားထားရသော လူငယ်ဆရာတစ်ယောက်အား အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စု၏ ဖမ်းဆီးခြင်း၊ သတ်ဖြတ်ခြင်း၊ မျက်ကွယ်တရားရုံးများမှ စီရင်ချက်များ ချမှတ်ခြင်းတို့သည် နိုင်ငံတကာလူ့အခွင့်အရေးဥပဒေက ပြဌာန်းထားသော အသက်ရှင်သန်ခွင့် နှင့် နိုင်ငံရေးအခွင့် အရေးများ ကို ချိုးဖောက်ခြင်း ဖြစ်သည်။ ၅။ နိုင်ငံရေးအကျဉ်းသားများအား လွှတ်ပေးရန်အတွက် ကုလသမဂ္ဂ လုံခြုံရေးကောင်စီက ဆုံးဖြတ်ချက် အမှတ် (၂၆၆၉/၂၀၂၂) ထုတ်ကာ ဖိအားပေးတောင်းဆိုနေချိန်တွင် ယခုကဲ့သို သေဒဏ်စီရင်ချက် ချမှတ်ခြင်းသည် အကြမ်းဖက်စစ်အုပ်စုက ကုလသမဂ္ဂ၏ ငြိမ်းချမ်းရေး နှင့် လုံခြုံရေး ယန္တရားအား ချိုးဖောက်ခြင်း ဖြစ်သည်။ ၆။ ပညာရေး၀န်ကြီးဌာနအနေဖြင့် တစ်နိုင်ငံလုံးအနှံ့ နှိပ်စက်သတ်ဖြတ်ခံနေရသော အလုပ်သမား၊ လယ်သမား၊ ပြည်သူ လူထုနှင့် အတူရပ်တည်၍ လူ့အခွင့်အရေးချိုးဖောက်မှု မှတ်တမ်းများကို ကောက်ယူသိမ်းဆည်းလျက် တရားမျှတမှုရရှိနိုင်ရေးကို အစွမ်းကုန် ကြိုးစားလုပ်ဆောင်ပြီး အရေးတော်ပုံ အောင်သည်အထိ ဆက်လက်တိုက်ပွဲဝင်သွားမည်ဟု သန္ဓိဌာန်ပြုပါသည်။..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education - National Unity Government of Myanmar
2023-01-11
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-12
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 235.44 KB
more
Description: "Before the annexation of Burma by the British, the only place where one could learn how to read and write was the country’s monasteries. The education of most young boys (since girls were prohibited from studying at monasteries) often culminated in the rote memorization of Buddhist scriptures. During the colonial era, the British government and foreign missionaries established schools and universities that taught modern subjects such as mathematics and science; consequently, monasteries as centers for learning became less relevant. However, at the beginning of the twentieth century, a new movement for national independence emerged, led by youths from Burma who were educated in Europe and India, and who aimed to establish a nation based on Buddhism and Burmese nationalism. During the 1930s, this movement had a strong influence over students from Rangoon University, who brought Buddhist traditions and rituals to the university precinct. The construction of a University dhamma-yone in 1934 and the existence of the tradition of paying respects to teachers, or saya-gadaw-pwe-dale were the most significant physical manifestation of Buddhism’s influence in the university campus. In other words, a secular realm, like a university campus, was influenced by a religion. This was not surprising; the majority of the students were Buddhists, and, at that time, they thought that the purity and very existence of Buddhism were being threatened by British colonialism, and they took it upon themselves to guard it. Nevertheless, even after Burma gained independence in 1948, Buddhist elements influenced and intervened in secular affairs such as politics and education. Under pressure from the monks, in 1961, then prime minster U Nu proclaimed that Buddhism is the national religion of Burma. Today, the tradition of paying respects to teachers continues to exist in schools and universities throughout Burma. The tradition has transformed into a formal ceremony held annually and organized collectively by teachers and students, in which students gather and sit on the floor of a great hall to pay respects to the teachers, who sit before them on rows of chairs. This tradition, I argue, is a hazard to ideals such as freedom of discussion and criticism upon which many modern universities are built. According to the Burmese tradition, paying respect to the parents, elders, and teachers is a noble act; people believe that by crouching down on the floor and asking for forgiveness before the abovementioned persons, one’s sins can be erased. Paying respects is also an act of admission that the person who earns this respect is also greater than and superior to those who offer it. It is obvious that only an inferior individual pays respects to the superior one, not vice-versa. This act also establishes a relationship in which the inferior person must listen to and obey the superior individual’s orders. Being inferior means one has neither the intellectual capacity nor the right to question the superior person’s wisdom. I call this kind of relationship a “one-way relationship.” This culture of deification of the figures in authority leads to the deification of public and political figures, and people would blindly follow those ‘teacher-like’ figures who preach what they want, rather than building a culture of healthy pluralistic democracy. It is worth noting that there are several teacher-like figures—whether they are civilian politicians, monks, or military personnel—who preach different doctrines, and they (and their followers) sincerely believe that the absolute truth is in their hands, while others are following the wrong path. However, they have a particular thing in common. They want to build a stronger and more powerful Burma, but they want to do it based on traditional values, not on democratic values. This might be the main reason why mainstream Burmese politics is brimming with populist politicians and their followers, despite intellectuals and academics’ efforts to shape a democratic Burma (since few hear the latter’s voices). On the other hand, modern universities aim to seek new knowledge for the benefit of humanity as a whole. To acquire new knowledge, academics and scholars need to conduct research by doing critical analyses of accepted theories, exchanging information and results with each other, and looking at conventional wisdom with scrutiny. So, what does critical education mean in the global context? It means that students must constantly question established knowledge and hierarchy and be active thinkers rather than passive followers. In the Burmese context, however, we should start with teachers asking students what they think about the topic, and students answering back and explaining their reason for holding a particular opinion. However, for this to occur, it is necessary for students not to see the teacher as an all-knowing deity, and for the teacher to not look down on the students and try to shut down their voices. This would necessarily mean that one has to criticize one’s master’s works if they contain inconsistencies or if one disagrees. Moreover, even in the classrooms—or at least in the universities that follow the Western tradition—students are encouraged to debate and exchange ideas with each other and with their teachers. They can question their teacher’s ideas and even criticize them; although it is important that they do this rationally, showing respect for their teachers and fellow students when they raise questions. I name this kind of relationship, in which both student and teacher listen to each other’s ideas, a “two-way relationship.” In Burmese universities, this kind of relationship does not exist due to the suppression of freedom of expression by successive military juntas and the deification of teachers. The lecture room in Burmese universities instead resembles a preaching ceremony or ta-ya-pwe in which monks preside over a whole ceremony, preach the sermon, and the audience obediently agrees with all the things the monk said. Teachers in Burmese universities read the textbook word-by-word and students sit in the classroom indifferently, occasionally murmuring their assent to the teacher. Students have not been given the intellectual freedom nor the skillset to analyze critically the textbooks nor the theories and ideas in them. The Burmese education system trains them to be obedient and not to question anything that has been spoon-fed to them. In other words, they have been put into a ‘one-way relationship” vis-à-vis their teachers. It is worth noting, however, that there are some major ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) which, for several years, have been running parallel educational institutions for youth who live in the area under their control. A few years ago, I had a chance to visit one of these places and learnt that their classes are run differently from government-funded universities. They either draw up their own curriculums or adopt foreign ones, and I noted that, in the classroom, the teacher encouraged students to ask questions freely and to actively participate in classroom activities. It would be a good start if the students from those institutions and state-funded universities had a chance to exchange experiences. To conclude, we must admit that this institutionalized tradition of paying respects to the teacher is an obstacle to realizing the ideals of modern universities. We must transform the relationship between teachers and students in Burma from a “one-way relationship” to a “two-way relationship.” Only after overturning the teacher-student relationships would Burmese universities abound with discussion and debate..."
Creator/author:
Source/publisher: "Tea Circle" (Myanmar)
2023-01-05
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-05
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "This regular update, covering non-violent movements, conflict trends, human rights violations, and humanitarian developments up to 31 December is produced by Southern Monitor, a local research group. The next monthly situation update will be issued in January 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES ● In December 2022, a total of 46 armed clashes erupted across all districts in Tanintharyi Region, showing an increasing trend in armed conflict. ● A total of 31 casualties (18 deaths and 13 injured) due to attacks targeting civilians were reported in December 2022. ● More than 60 civilians’ houses were burned down by junta forces following the armed clashes in Palaw Township. ● More than 17,000 people displaced in Tanintharyi Region: Increased displacement figures were reported in Palaw township; and new displacement in Bokpyin town. ● Humanitarian assistance has been largely impeded due to access constraints, and a widespread ban on transport of dry rations and medicines. Displaced populations are in dire need of adequate shelter and warm clothing. ● The junta forces conducted an increasing number of violent household inspections, arrests, arbitrary detentions, as well as increased troop deployments across all districts in the region..."
Source/publisher: Southern Monitor (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2023-01-04
Date of entry/update: 2023-01-04
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1008.9 KB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 26 December, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of January 2023. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES • Almost two years since the 2021 military takeover, the people of Myanmar continue to suffer amid hostilities and a crippling economic crisis that is being compounded by inflation. • More than 1.5 million people remain displaced across the country due to insecurity and violence. This is more than double the number a year ago with displaced people now living in undignified conditions and in desperate need in hardto-reach locations. • Conflict, contamination with landmines and explosive hazards, tight security, access restrictions, and threats against aid workers, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast, are on the rise, endangering lives and hampering humanitarian operations. • The informal ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) in Rakhine and southern Chin continues to hold but remains very fragile. • Humanitarian and protection needs are mounting, forcing people to adopt negative coping mechanisms to survive. Women and girls are disproportionately being disproportionately affected. • The humanitarian community is deeply concerned about the impact of new administrative rules around NGO registration which will further shrink operating space. • Humanitarians continue to address the emerging needs of affected and displaced people where access is possible, reaching almost four million people in need with critical lifesaving assistance in the year to September. • As 2022 draws to a close, the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) remains drastically underfunded with only 35 per cent, leaving a gap of US$536 million (FTS). A dramatic increase in funding and an expansion of access will be critical for the humanitarian community to reach the 4.5 million people prioritized for life-saving assistance in 2023. KEY FIGURES* 1.5M People internally displaced across Myanmar 1.1M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 330K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 34K Civilian properties estimated burnt or destroyed since February 2021. *Displacement figures fluctuate during any given month. These figures represent the number of people currently displaced. Cumulative numbers for returns and displacement are not always available. SITUATION OVERVIEW As 2022 draws to an end, humanitarian needs and protection concerns continue to grow across Myanmar, exposing many men, women, boys and girls to constant risks that threaten their physical safety and mental well-being. Almost two years after the military takeover, armed clashes, including the use of heavy weaponry, between the MAF and various Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) in multiple states and regions are now a regular feature of daily life. Internal displacement and destruction of civilian properties have continued unabated, depriving more than 1.5 million people of safe shelter and dignified living conditions. The economic situation remains fragile and has been further undermined by inflation that has dramatically driven up the cost of basic food items and fuel. According to the Food Security Cluster, 15.2 million people are severely and moderately food insecure heading into 2023, up from 13.2 million people at the same time last year. To survive this multi-dimensional crisis, affected and displaced people have resorted negative coping mechanisms, including lowering food intake, selling their assets, dropping out of school, engaging in risky migration and marrying their children off early. Despite the dire humanitarian situation, access to humanitarian assistance continues to be undermined by the imposition of various administrative and physical constraints on the movement of people and goods. The humanitarian community is deeply concerned about new administrative requirements outlined on 28 October 2022 which establish a mandatory registration system for international and national non-government organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs). These new rules have the serious potential to reduce timely and effective delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in need in Myanmar and would severely impede the work of NGOs and CSOs who are the backbone of the humanitarian operation. With rising needs, ensuring programme continuity and engagement of the NGO and CSO community is critical to ensuring no one is left behind as we move into 2023. The humanitarian community remains committed to staying and delivering for the people of Myanmar, but as they stand, the new requirements are likely to mean that many people in need will miss out on the support they require to survive in 2023. Given the consequences for millions of people in need, and the reality that the implementation infrastructure is not yet fully in place to facilitate the administrative steps outlined, the humanitarian community is proposing a six-month moratorium on any implementation of these new rules. Such a pause would allow an opportunity for discussions at national and sub-national level and would allow space to discuss how to ensure that vital support to people in need is not interrupted. Heading into 2023, conflict dynamics are expected to remain at the same level or worsen, especially in the Northwest and Southeast. It is estimated that 17.6 million people will be in need next year of whom 4.5 million have been prioritized for urgent assistance.2 Humanitarians are committed to meeting humanitarian needs of the population, providing food, shelter, health, water and sanitation, education and protection services to crisis-affected and displaced people across the country. However, both a lack of sustained access and of funding remain key obstacles. As of 28 December, the 2022 HRP is only 35 per cent funded, which amounts to only $290 million out of a total of $826 million required, leaving significant unmet needs which will flow on into 2023.3 A repeat of this level of funding in 2023 would have dire consequences and donors are urged to give generously in support of people affected by crisis in Myanmar next year..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2022-12-30
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-30
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 843.5 KB
more
Description: "Highlights The number of people displaced nationally, including those in protracted situations, has continued to rise, exceeding 1.5 million as of 26 December 2022. UNICEF reached over 2.7 million children aged 6–59 months with support to the vitamin A supplementation campaign. UNICEF and its partners helped 62,583 children access formal and non-formal education, despite the continuing conflict. During the reporting period, UNICEF and its partners provided lifesaving child protection services to 41,410 people (16,135 girls, 14,803 boys, 7,358 women and 3,114 men). UNICEF and its partners reached a total of 10,887 children aged 6– 59 months (5,446 boys and 5,441 girls) and 1,649 pregnant and lactating women with preventive nutrition services in December. 56,708 affected people were provided with life-saving WASH supplies by UNICEF and partners during the period. By the end of the year, UNICEF Myanmar had received only 20 per cent of its appeal (US$30.32 million), earmarked to provide humanitarian assistance to the targeted population. Situation in Numbers 5,000,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance (HRP 2022) 14,400,000 people in need (HRP 2022) 1,175,300 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 (UNHCR, 26 Dec 2022) 49,800 People displaced to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021 (UNHCR, 26 Dec 2022) 330,400 people living in protracted displacement before February 2021 (UNHCR,269 Dec 2022) Funding Overview and Partnerships UNICEF Myanmar Country Office is appealing for US$151.4 million to deliver humanitarian assistance to displaced people and host communities across the country. The Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) estimates that, in 2022, 14.4 million people, including 5 million children, have needed assistance. Up to December 2022, UNICEF has received generous contributions from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), the European Commission’s Humanitarian Office, the German Federal Foreign Office, the Global Thematic Fund, Denmark, Japan, Norway, the Korean Committee for UNICEF, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The funds received contribute to delivering much needed assistance through UNICEF programmes covering Nutrition, Health, HIV/AIDS, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Education, Child protection, Gender-based violence in emergencies, Prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA), Social protection and cash-based programming, Accountability to affected populations (AAP), and Humanitarian leadership and Cluster coordination. UNICEF Myanmar has so far received US$30.32 million, representing 20 per cent of the amount appealed for. In 2023, UNICEF will continue responding according to its Humanitarian Action for Children appeal. The programmes hope to scale up services to the targeted populations, especially children in need, with continued support from the donors. UNICEF expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public sector donors for their contributions to supporting the children of Myanmar. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs Displacement due to conflict rose again in December, reaching a total of 1,505,7001 people. This figure includes those displaced by conflict prior to 2021. The ongoing conflict is constraining the movement of assistance, supplies and people. In Rakhine, the ceasefire between the Myanmar Armed Forces and the Arakan Army has resulted in the easing of some transportation restrictions. Nevertheless access, as elsewhere in the country, remains severely constrained. Heightened security measures, checkpoints and denial of travel authorizations are compounding humanitarian workers’ inability to reach children and their families, who are increasingly vulnerable to protection issues, malnutrition and disease. According to UNOCHA’s latest figures2 , approximately 20,800 people have been affected by the resurgence of conflict in the region since August 2022 and remain displaced in Rakhine State and Paletwa township in Chin. In the northwest, comprising Chin, Sagaing and Magway, 795,6001 displaced children, woman and men are located in these regions, representing 68 per cent of all people displaced nationally since February 2021. Severe access constraints continue to hinder timely and principled deliveries of aid. In the southeast, armed clashes are forcing people to search for safety in nearby forests or host communities and informal displacement sites. Humanitarian organizations face challenges in providing life-saving services for the numerous displaced people in remote rural areas due to security concerns and restricted access to urban zones. Despite this, UNICEF is coordinating with local partners to provide necessary assistance for the displaced population, notably with health, nutrition, WASH, child protection and education services. Throughout the country, landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) continue to pose a threat to the life of children and their communities. Based on UNICEF’s most recent monitoring report of landmines and ERW3 , the number of casualties nationwide from January to October 2022 has already exceeded the total number of cases for 2021 (117 per cent). Some 333 people have so far been impacted with 86 people killed and 247 injured. Children account for 32 per cent of cases. Giving the ongoing reporting constraints, the actual numbers are anticipated to be much higher. UNICEF is working with partners to provide explosive ordnance risk education (EORE) to prevent such incidents and to protect children and communities against the physical injury and psychological trauma caused by landmines and ERW..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
2022-12-30
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-30
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 431.56 KB
more
Description: "Please see below statement from Refugees International Deputy Director for Africa, Asia, and the Middle East Daniel P. Sullivan: “An alarming number of Rohingya refugees have been marooned at sea in recent weeks. Urgent action is needed to address the drivers behind these dangerous voyages and to save those still adrift. This month, at least three boats, each carrying more than 100 Rohingya from Myanmar or the refugee camps in Bangladesh, have spent weeks abandoned at sea. At least one boat remains at adrift. Yet regional governments have been slow to respond, and, even when saved, the refugees have been faced with detention or return to the genocidal regime that caused them to flee their homeland in the first place. The recent surge of dangerous sea voyages evokes memories of the May 2015 Andaman Sea crisis, during which some 3,000 Rohingya and Bangladeshis were abandoned by human smugglers. That crisis resulted in several pledges and proposals that could have avoided the current crisis, including setting up a regional task force and trust fund for mixed movements of refugees and migrants and agreeing to predetermined safe disembarkation points. Yet, the current response has largely only repeated the past. The drivers behind these desperate voyages must be addressed, both through enhanced coordinated global pressure on Myanmar’s military junta and through measures to empower Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh through improved protection and access to education and livelihood opportunities. But the most immediate need is for regional governments, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to live up to their obligations to save those stranded at sea and to avoid moves like repatriation or detention that will only place vulnerable people in further danger.” Refugees International recently released a report covering the dire conditions in the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh and recommending solutions. An earlier report following the May 2015 boat crisis highlighted the dangerous sea journeys and included recommendations for addressing them. For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Refugees International’s Vice President for Strategic Outreach Sarah Sheffer at [email protected]..."
Source/publisher: Refugees International via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2022-12-21
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-20
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "HIGHLIGHTS..... Myanmar continues to experience a severe - and worsening - humanitarian and human rights crisis. Conflict and violence have escalated across the country, impacting children and their families and displacing more than 1.4 million people. The ongoing political crisis has been coupled with economic challenges, increasing people's vulnerability. An estimated 17.6 million people, including 5.6 million children, are in need of humanitarian assistance. Access of children and their families to such essential services as health care, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and education is severely constrained. These interrelated challenges are threatening children's survival, development and well-being. UNICEF’s humanitarian strategy focuses on working with communities, local and international partners and with all stakeholders to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance and ensure critical services reach children in need. UNICEF requires US$169.6 million to respond to the mult-isectoral humanitarian needs of children in Myanmar. HUMANITARIAN SITUATION AND NEEDS Children and their families continue to suffer due to widespread and deepening conflict in Myanmar. The situation further deteriorated in 2022, with increased fighting taking place nationwide between the Myanmar Armed Forces, ethnic armed organizations and more than 600 local defence groups. Around 17.6 million people - almost one third of the population - are in need of humanitarian assistance. The number of children and their families displaced by the conflict has increased by 60 per cent since December 2021 to more than 1.4 million people, including the 330,400 who had been living in protracted displacement even prior to the coup that took place in February 2021. Communities in the Sagaing region are the hardest hit, with nearly 612,400 people displaced as of October 2022. The resurgence of fighting in Rakhine State between government armed forces and a large ethnic armed organization has imperilled the situation of the nearly 220,000 people living in protracted displacement there. There are also extremely vulnerable non-displaced people, including 417,000 stateless Rohingyas, along with communities affected by conflict, insecurity and rising poverty in rural areas and cities. Cross-border movements are fluid and bidirectional. Those who fled to Thailand and then returned to Myanmar remain displaced within the country because they have not returned to places of origin. Grave violations of child rights have increased in 2022 compared with 2021: for example, the number of children killed and maimed between January and September 2022 more than doubled compared with 2021, largely due to indiscriminate use of heavy weapons, airstrikes and explosive ordnance. There has also been an eightfold increase in the number of abductions in 2022. Attacks on schools and hospitals have continued at alarming levels, while recruitment and use of children by all armed actors remains of serious concern. Millions of children and adolescents are deprived of the right to education because their safe access to education has been disrupted. The ongoing conflict has undermined the delivery of child health services, including routine immunization and the response to severe wasting. This has lead to a regression in child health outcomes in the country. The disruption in child immunization services also creates longer-term risks of increased disease prevalence. Access of conflict-affected populations to services and delivery of humanitarian assistance has been further constrained by restrictions imposed on movement of both people and goods. Camp closures and forced return and relocation remain key protection concerns for displaced people. The safety and protection of humanitarian and front-line workers has also become a serious concern, as they are increasingly targeted by parties to the conflict and subject to arbitrary arrests and detentions..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
2022-12-06
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-06
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 3.33 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering non-violent movements, conflict trends, human rights violations, and humanitarian developments up to 30 November is produced by Southern Monitor, a local research group. The next monthly situation update will be issued in December 2022. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES In November 2022, a total of 43 armed clashes erupted across all districts in Tanintharyi Region. Junta forces deployed across Tanintharyi Region shot and killed civilians in Dawei and Launglon Townships, one of the victims was a 14 years old boy. The junta forces fortified search and arrest operations in Dawei and Palaw townships on suspicion of supporting local resistance groups. Humanitarian assistance has been largely impeded due to access constraints, and a widespread ban on transport of dry rations and medicines. Displaced populations are in dire need of adequate shelter and warm clothing. The junta forces conducted an increasing number of violent household inspections, arrests, arbitrary detentions, as well as increased troop deployments across Dawei and Palaw Townships..."
Source/publisher: Southern Monitor (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2022-12-05
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-05
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 1 MB
more
Description: "This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 30 November, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. Response figures are based on self-reporting by organizations to clusters. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of December 2022. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES More than 1.4 million people are displaced across the country, of whom more than 1.1 million were displaced since the 2021 military takeover. Armed clashes, compounded by tight security, access restrictions, and threats against aid workers, continue to hamper humanitarian operations across Myanmar. Humanitarians are hoping that an informal ceasefire agreement between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) may create space for the delivery of much-needed assistance in Rakhine and southern Chin where access has been restricted since September. The situation is being closely monitored. Humanitarians are deeply concerned about the newly passed NGO registration law and partners are currently investigating the potential impact on the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance. Premature return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from past and present conflicts in Rakhine, Chin and southern Shan states remains a major protection concern amid ongoing insecurity and continued fighting. It is critical that returns are done safely and voluntarily, in line with international principles. Inflation in commodity prices, including for food and fuel, is deepening the socio-economic stress on communities, forcing them to adopt negative coping mechanisms. The 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) remains drastically underfunded as the end of 2022 is approaching. As of 30 November, it is only 28 per cent funded, leaving a gap of US$597 million (FTS). In the first nine months of 2022, humanitarians reached at least 3.9 million people with assistance according to reports received by clusters. KEY FIGURES 1.4M People internally displaced across Myanmar 1.1M People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021 330K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan 31K Civilian properties estimated to have been burnt or destroyed since February 2021. *Displacement figures fluctuate during any given month. These figures represent the number of people currently displaced. Cumulative numbers for returns and displacement are not always available. SITUATION OVERVIEW The humanitarian situation continues to be dominated by hostilities and increasing economic stress for millions of people. Frequent, indiscriminate attacks, including airstrikes and artillery fire in civilian areas have caused casualties and spread fear. Displacement also continues to rise despite some reported returns. According to the latest UN figures, the estimated number of new IDPs since the military takeover has passed 1.1 million, bringing the total number of IDPs across the country to almost 1.4 million. More than 49,400 people remain in neighbouring countries after fleeing since the takeover. Nearly 31,000 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries, and schools are estimated to have been destroyed although figures are difficult to verify. The level of destruction of civilian property, particularly of homes, combined with the deteriorating security situation and explosive ordnance risks are delaying returns and prolonging people’s displacement. Suffering is being compounded by heavy restrictions on humanitarian access, including cumbersome bureaucratic processes and systematic blocks on access approvals, that continue to delay the delivery of critical and lifesaving assistance to affected people. Humanitarian actors, including the UN, INGOs, and local partners, continue responding to both pre-existing and emerging needs wherever they can. Despite the constrained operating environment and limited funding (less than 30 per cent), nearly 3.9 million people across Myanmar had received assistance by the end of September. Please see the full Quarter 3 dashboard here. Local partners are now the backbone of the response and Quarter 3 saw a further increase in the number of organizations coordinating their response through the cluster system from 177 in Quarter 2 to 219 - a direct result of a scale-up in cluster coordination efforts, with a particular focus on hard-to-reach areas. Nevertheless, response numbers are based on voluntary reporting by partners to clusters and there is likely to be significant underreporting by local organizations. As 2022 is nearing an end, this year’s HRP is only 28 per cent funded, which amounts to only $230 million out of a total of $826 million required..."
Source/publisher: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
2022-12-03
Date of entry/update: 2022-12-03
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 861.89 KB
more
Description: "Highlights Essential medical supplies were distributed to partners in the northwest and southeast regions for use in primary health care services and were expected to meet the needs of more than 14,000 children. A total of 10,370 children (5,348 girls and 5,022 boys) and 2,062 caregivers were provided with access to mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) activities and interventions through in-person and remote approaches. Nearly 28,000 temporarily displaced people in Kayin, Kayah, Magway and Tanintharyi received life-saving WASH supplies. So far this year, UNICEF has provided cash assistance to a total of 8,467 participants through its Maternal and Child Cash Transfer programme. Up to November, the 2022 UNICEF Humanitarian Action for Children appeal has received only 20 per cent of the required US$151.4 million to cover the multisectoral humanitarian needs of the targeted 1.1 million children..."
Source/publisher: UN Children's Fund via Reliefweb (New York)
2022-11-30
Date of entry/update: 2022-11-30
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 487.52 KB
more
Sub-title: အသိမှတ်ပြုကြောင်းကြေညာချက်
Description: "ပြည်ထောင်စုသမ္မတမြန်မာနိုင်ငံတော် အမျိုးသားညီညွတ်ရေးအစိုးရ ပညာရေးဝန်ကြီးဌာန ကြေညာချက်အမှတ် (၁၉/၂၀၂၂) ၂၀၂၂ ခုနှစ်၊ နိုဝင်ဘာလ (၂၆) ရက် အသိမှတ်ပြုကြောင်းကြေညာချက်..."
Source/publisher: Ministry of Education, National Unity Government of Myanmar
2022-11-26
Date of entry/update: 2022-11-26
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 213.81 KB
more
Description: "The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and 11 years of conflict in Kachin have affected tens of thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) who have sought shelter in various camps across Kachin State. People in Need (PIN) and our local partner organisation, Diocesan Commission for Education (DCE-Banmaw), support quality education for children in need through Education in Emergencies (EiE) programmes in the most conflict-affected areas in Kachin State. With financial support from the Myanmar Humanitarian Fund (MHF), PIN and DCE-Banmaw distributed student kits, provided home-based learning materials, and facilitated psychosocial support activities for more than 2,700 children in five IDPs camps and one host village in Bhamo district, Kachin State. New academic year and new challenges to accessing education In June 2022, children were supposed to return to school for the new academic year. However, many parents and caregivers faced financial crises and could not send their children back to school. At that time, PIN and DCE-Banmaw continued to support the educational needs of children between kindergarten (KG) and Grade 8. Htang Nu (name changed), a mother of three school children who received support from PIN and DCE-Banmaw, showed her gratitude to PIN and our donor. “I have three children, in Grades 1, 4, and KG. I have no money to enrol my children in school, so I borrowed money to pay school registration fees. At the beginning of the school year, my children were sad about using old school equipment, which was quite damaged. Now, they are happy to wear new school backpacks and use books, pencils, and raincoats from the distribution.” With these educational materials, children can continue their learning. Hkawng Hkawng (name changed), a 16-year-old, Grade 8 student studying at one of the IDP camps’ schools, dreams of becoming a doctor: “I love receiving student kits, such as backpack, raincoat, books, pens and other things. I am thankful I have them. I want to be a doctor and treat poor people in camps. That is why I study so hard to achieve my goal.” In addition to providing educational materials, children also receive psychosocial support activities to develop their social and emotional capacities and support their well-being. Supporting teachers, parents, and schools There are numerous challenges facing displaced and conflict-affected families and children, and access to quality education is one of the most urgent and critical needs. Volunteer teachers, educators, and parents play a key role in providing quality education to these children. Yet teachers and parents face many challenges; Lu Hpring (name changed), a headmistress of a school camp, expressed, “Most of the parents in the camps are earning money from daily labour at sugar cane farms, and some are returning to their land from which they fled to plant rice. Sugar cane farmers are losing profits and investments due to lingering border restrictions on exports to China, which have impacted the internally displaced people who can earn money from it.” Lu Hpring shared concerns regarding enrollment, “Our school accepts kindergarten to Grade 9 students. Some school children experienced late entry into the school system because their parents could not save the money to send them to school. Ongoing conflicts, COVID and border closures have caused several challenges for the parents.” Likewise, she adds, “despite the financial barriers, parents still face challenges to enrol in school. Most high school students drop out whether they fail or pass the matriculation exam. Parents cannot afford to send them back to school because they lack financial support. As all know, we live in a conflict-affected area with limited resources for better education.” To help ease these tensions, PIN and DCE-Banmaw provide volunteer teacher incentives, teacher capacity-building training (including on teacher well-being practices), and positive parenting skills workshops to parents and caregivers. Through school improvement planning, education committees and others (including parents and community leaders) work together to define the needs of the schools (e.g., materials and resources, infrastructure needs, training, etc.) and receive funds to address what is most necessary. Helping the most hard-to-reach children is essential In Kachin, only “a few local aid organisations can access hard-to-reach areas,” says Gam Seng (name changed), a DCE-Banmaw project focal person. Under this project, and through People in Need’s leadership, providing educational support to the most hard-to-reach children has been possible. A holistic approach to education is needed, even in these areas. “That is why DCE-Banmaw and PIN aim to strengthen quality education,” including by training “local teachers and camp-based volunteer educators with the Teaching in Crisis Contexts (TiCC) and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curricula” and providing activities that can help to “protect the children,” such psychosocial support activities and “parent [and caregiver] skills workshops.” *The names of certain individuals and locations have been changed for their protection..."
Creator/author:
Source/publisher: People in Need
2022-11-15
Date of entry/update: 2022-11-15
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description: "In Numbers 11 million people are facing acute food insecurity 1.38 million people are displaced 4 million people are targeted for WFP assistance 2.7 million people assisted by WFP in 2022 Highlights • In September, WFP reached close to 780,000 people with food and cash assistance, including 26,000 internally displaced people (IDP) and other vulnerable people who received WFP assistance for the first time. • In 2022, WFP has thus far assisted 2.7 million crisisaffected people across Myanmar with emergency food, livelihoods, and nutrition support. Situation Update • Food prices continued to soar in September, with an increase of 14 percent compared to August. WFP’s price monitoring showed a 62 percent year-on-year increase in the cost of a basic food basket. The cost of cooking oil was up by 137 percent, and rice was up by 53 percent. Fuel prices remained steady but nearly double (+94 percent) that of last year. • The temporary suspension of humanitarian assistance, announced in mid-September, in six townships in Rakhine State remains in place, currently affecting some 60,000 WFP beneficiaries. WFP is working with concerned authorities to resume cash and food deliveries to beneficiaries as soon as possible. • Financial situation: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has placed Myanmar on its blacklist, on grounds of serious deficiencies in the country’s ability to counter money laundering and terrorist financing. International financial transfers will be subject to increased monitoring and restrictions. The decision may affect WFP’s ability to maintain cash flows into the country. Delays and additional costs are expected. • Humanitarian situation: UNHCR estimates more than 1.38 million people are internally displaced by conflict in Myanmar as of 10 October. Of whom, more than 1 million have been displaced since February 2021, with 734,000 displaced in 2022 alone. This comes on top of a further 330,000 protracted IDPs before February 2021..."
Source/publisher: World Food Programme (WFP) (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
2022-10-26
Date of entry/update: 2022-10-26
Grouping: Individual Documents
Language:
Format : pdf
Size: 509.46 KB
more

Pages