Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Individual Documents
Description:
"Highlights
• Damage to structures and many roads initially blocked as a result of fallen trees and power lines when Cyclone Mocha made landfall on the Rakhine coast on Sunday, 14 May around midday. Cleanup crews were out on Sunday evening and Monday, with very heavy winds and rain lasting until around 15.30. Heavy rains and winds continued into late evening.
• The storm moved further north-northeast towards Myanmar’s Chin State and Sagaing Region, which are at high risk of landslides and localized flooding.
• Information on the full picture and impact on communities is not yet available due to downed telecommunications and intermittent availability of internet, and inaccessibility of some roads due to trees falling and debris.
• UNICEF, in coordination with OCHA and other humanitarian organisations, is still working to assess the situation and needs on the ground.
• 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 Overview & Humanitarian Needs
Over 16 million people are in the path of Cyclone Mocha, including 1,751,284 people living in areas that will be affected by sustained wind speeds of >120km/h.1 The humanitarian situation in the anticipated affected areas is already of grave concern, particularly for the 232,100 people displaced across Rakhine and over 1 million internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Northwest.
Cyclone Mocha made landfall in Myanmar on 14 May, with heavy rain, storm surges and strong winds reported in Rakhine, particularly in the state capital Sittwe. Telecommunications with these areas have been cut since the afternoon of 14 May, making it impossible to have a more accurate update on the extent of damage. Flooding was less than predicted but did reach West Sanpiya ward, Sittwe Hotel and the UNICEF office.
There was damage to structures and many roads were initially blocked as a result of fallen trees and power lines. Cleanup crews were out on Sunday evening and Monday, and some roads have now been cleared. However, efforts are likely to take some time, due to the extent of damage.
Sittwe Airport, which was closed last week, seems to have reopened, likely for military flights, as four flights were reportedly observed overhead in one-hour period. No information is available so far regarding if or when domestic flights will resume.
In the Northwestern States, there has been severe damage due to heavy rains and wind and floods are reported in Magway and Sagaing, where heavy rains and limited capacity for shelters are reported for all IDPs. Armed attacks have also been reported in Kani, Khin U and Monywa.
The UNICEF office in Sittwe suffered substantial damage and will likely be out of service for a substantial period. A temporary office space will be identified while assessment of office viability and next steps are undertaken.
Initial estimates by the Inter Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) indicate that 200,000 people will need humanitarian assistance in Rakhine and a further 500,000 people in the Northwest. Humanitarian teams are trying to attempt assessment of camps and wards around Sittwe..."
Source/publisher:
UN Children's Fund (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-15
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-15
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations, Natural Disasters - General, Cyclones - regional
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pdf
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231.34 KB
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Description:
"In Numbers
8.7 million people live in the path of Cyclone Mocha. The cyclone has struck near Sittwe, one of the least developed parts of Myanmar. In neighbouring Bangladesh, nearly 1 million people living in the world’s largest refugee camp also felt the storm’s impact.
Highlights
WFP is stepping up to respond in Bangladesh and Myanmar;
WFP provided 28,000 Bangladeshis in Teknaf cash before the cyclone struck, and 3,400 Rohingya refugees with fortified biscuits. It is resuming regular assistance to Bangladesh.
In Myanmar, WFP is mobilizing emergency food and nutrition assistance to 800,000 people affected by the cyclone, many of them already displaced by conflict..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-15
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-15
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Cyclones - regional, Natural Disasters - General
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
7.09 MB
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Description:
"In Numbers
At least 800,000 people in the direct path of the cyclone will need emergency food assistance in Myanmar, according to initial estimates that could still increase1
960,000 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh remain at risk and continue to receive WFP assistance.
250km/h winds were inflicted by Cyclone Mocha.
Highlights
In Myanmar, WFP is mobilizing emergency food and cash assistance for at least 800,000 people affected by the cyclone .
Figures could still increase following assessments.
In Bangladesh, WFP provided 28,000 Bangladeshis in Teknaf with cash before the cyclone struck, and 6,000 Rohingya refugees with fortified biscuits and hot meals immediately after. WFP is working to resuming its regular assistance..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-15
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-15
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Cyclones - regional, Natural Disasters - General, Climate Change - Burma/Myanmar: general, Climate Change - Migration Global
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pdf
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333 KB
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Description:
"Relief International is mobilizing immediate assistance to address the catastrophic aftermath of Cyclone Mocha, a deadly storm that has made landfall in Bangladesh and Myanmar. The cyclone poses a particularly grave threat to the stateless Rohingya community and host communities, who are already living in extremely vulnerable conditions.
With approximately 1 million Rohingya refugees seeking shelter in massively overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, the situation is dire. Most reside in bamboo and tarpaulin shelters on precarious hilled slopes, which are only able to withstand wind speeds of up to approximately 24 mph. Unfortunately, Cyclone Mocha’s winds are expected to reach an alarming 175 mph, rendering the shelters highly susceptible to destruction.
The low-lying areas of the camps are anticipated to flood rapidly, further exacerbating the crisis by destroying shelters and education facilities. Relief International remains committed to providing updates as the events unfold and the full extent of the impact becomes clear.
Aleksander Kuzmanovic, Country Director for Relief International in Myanmar, has stated,
“In Myanmar, Relief International is currently responding by providing immediate support to evacuation centers in the townships of Myebon and Kyaukphyu. We are distributing essential food and water items to approximately 5,000 people for the next four days.
As of 12 noon local time, all staff members are accounted for and safe. Due to damage to communication towers in Sittwe, our communication channels are currently limited. The area is still within the eyewall of the storm, and we anticipate the storm to start diminishing from approximately 18.00h local time.”
Nazrul Islam, Deputy Country Director at Relief International in Bangladesh, highlights the catastrophic impact the cyclone will have on the Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar refugee camp. Islam said,
“Families already living in fragile homes will be devastated by the storm, with wind speeds predicted to reach 180 kmph. Refugee families in landslide-prone areas and patients with critical conditions are being relocated, while solid structures within the camp are being made available as temporary shelters.
Relief International’s Mobile Medical Teams are prepared to respond to emergency needs. We are also ready to provide medical equipment, medicines, emergency vehicles, food stocks, and shelter. However, additional funding will be urgently required to address the long-lasting impact of this very severe cyclone.”
Relief International has been serving communities in Myanmar for over 15 years, providing essential healthcare consultations to 48,000 individuals annually and delivering vital protection and support services to 50,000 people per year. In Bangladesh, Relief International has been actively working for nearly two decades, providing protection and support services to 68,000 Rohingya refugees. Our organization extends 116,000 healthcare consultations annually to those who have fled violence and persecution, as well as to members of the host communities.
Relief International is only able to respond rapidly to communities in crisis thanks to the support of our donors. Donations to www.ri.org/donate help provide critical aid, including medical assistance, essential items, and food supplies as well as support for long-term recovery to communities affected by Cyclone Mocha, and many other crises across the globe..."
Source/publisher:
Relief International
Date of publication:
2023-05-14
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-14
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Cyclones - regional, Natural Disasters - General, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Climate Change - Burma/Myanmar: general, Climate Change - Migration Global
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Description:
"There are grave concerns about the condition of around one million people living in Myanmar’s Rakhine state where the powerful cyclone Mocha made landfall today, Islamic Relief’s head of programmes for Myanmar and Bangladesh has said.
This includes around 150,000 Rohingya refugees living in camps in the Sittwe and Pauktaw townships of Myanmar, and over 600,000 Rohingya, alongside Rakhine people living in the countryside of Rakhine state.
The centre of the cyclone made landfall on coast of Myanmar’s Rakhine state near Sittwe township with wind speeds up to 209 kilometres per hour. The full extent of the damage in the country is still unclear but there are concerns the destruction in the nearby camps and rural areas will be severe.
Heavy rain and strong winds have already brought localised flooding across Rakhine, with communities fleeing to higher ground to try and find safety. Houses have been impacted, trees have been felled, power lines have gone down and the main mobile tower in Sittwe collapsed.
Islamic Relief believes the damage in the countryside could be worse than in the towns because the people tend to be poorer and live in buildings which are more vulnerable.
The state of Rakhine where the cyclone hit most severely is a conflict zone and already has around 6 million people in need of humanitarian assistance living within its borders.
Sharif Ahmed, Islamic Relief head of programmes for Myanmar and Bangladesh, said, “The needs in Myanmar are huge. Rakhine was already a poverty hit state before the powerful cyclone Mocha hit. The impact of this cyclone will be very high in Myanmar’s Rakhine state because of the existing conflict and the extremely poor socio economic condition of the people in Rakhine state. Poverty is very high and is the primary reason this storm will have such a destructive impact on these people and their lives.”
Islamic Relief is preparing to respond through local partners in Myanmar with food supplies and temporary shelter for those who need help and is planning efforts to clear the damage in refugee camps near Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh.
The cyclone struck Bangladesh less severely than expected with the world’s largest refugee camp which is near Cox’s Bazar in the south east of the country not as badly hit as expected. But there’s still danger rains from the storm could destabilise the mud foundations of the buildings in those camps..."
Source/publisher:
Islamic Relief (Birmingham) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-14
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-14
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Burmese refugees in Bangladesh, Cyclones - regional, Natural Disasters - General, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Rohingya (cultural, political etc.), Arakan (Rakhine) State - reports etc. by date (latest first)
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Description:
"The MAU tracks market prices in Central and Northern Rakhine State and Chin State. Data are collected from three vendors per product per market in the last week of each month. Data and product specifications are available online through the MPR dashboard at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit.
KEY FINDINGS
Rice prices increased by 6-12% in most markets in April, although pulses and palm oil prices were stable;
Palm oil prices were just 17% above April 2022, after eight months of fairly calm oil markets;
Vegetable prices rose for a second straight month following a seasonal pattern for this time of year;
Prices for hygiene products were again stable, remaining 40-70% above April 2022 levels;
Meat/fish prices increased significantly in April, registering their largest increases in five months;
Kyauktaw, Rathedaung and Minbya saw steep hikes in April, while Paletwa and Pauktaw prices were stable;
Further price increases are likely in May—particularly for essential foods but perhaps also NFIs—as cyclone preparation absorbs existing inventory.
Product-Level Price Changes
Essential Foods – Rice prices increased widely in April, although prices for pulses and palm oil were fairly stable. Rice prices increased by 6-12% in half of all markets monitored in April, although higher rice prices after the Thingyan holiday are not unusual. Prices for palm oil and pulses were stable in most cases, although they fluctuated by 10-20% in isolated cases.
Vegetables – Vegetable prices increased for a second straight month in April. Eggplant and long bean prices rose widely, often up 40% or more. Townships were evenly split between stable and rising prices for most other vegetables monitored (often rising in the range of 10-20%); lower prices were rare. Only garlic saw falling prices, down 4-13% in a few cases.
Hygiene Products – Prices for hygiene products were very stable in April, except in Kyauktaw where prices rose. Soap prices increased by 11-25% in multiple markets, but price shifts were otherwise fairly isolated for hygiene products. The only falling prices were toothpaste prices in two markets
Meat and Fish – Meat/fish prices rose in April, marking their clearest increase since November 2022. Chicken and fish paste prices rose at least 7% in most markets monitored in April, while fresh fish and shrimp prices rose at least 13%. Dried fish prices were more stable, although they too rose 4-8% in some cases. Only Paletwa and Pautaw saw occasionally-lower prices.
Other NFIs – NFI prices were stable or rising in April, with most price increase in the range of 5-14%. Prices for towels and longyis increased at least 5% in most markets, while plastic tarps, blankets and cooking pots rose 3-7% in a few markets. Isolated stockouts affected umbrellas and mosquito nets, but most other NFI prices were stable..."
Source/publisher:
Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-12
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Food Security and the economy in Burma, Arakan (Rakhine) State - reports etc. by date (latest first)
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.11 MB
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Description:
"The MAU tracks market prices in in Southeast Myanmar. Data are collected from three vendors per product per market in the last week of each month. The data include prices from Hpapun (Kamamaung market), Kawkareik (main), Loikaw (Thiri Mingalar) and Taungoo (Nat Htet). Data will soon be available online at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit.
KEY FINDINGS
Prices were stable or rising in March, although most prices changed by less than 10%;
Rice and palm oil prices were fairly stable in March, while prices for pulses fell slightly;
Vegetable prices were fairly stable in March—more so than at this time last year, when prices fell—increasing their lead over March 2022 levels;
Prices for hygiene products rose by 7% in some markets, in contrast to generally-lower prices in February;
NFI prices were stable in March, leaving most products at least 20% higher than last year;
Prices were stable in Loikaw and Kawkareik in March, while Hpapun and Taungoo saw a mix of higher, lower and stable prices.
Product-Level Price Changes
Essential Foods – Essential food prices were fairly stable in March. Prices for some essential foods shifted up or down in March, but the change was usually less than 5%. Palm oil prices increased sharply in Taungoo in March, reversing February's lower prices.
Vegetables – Vegetable prices fluctuated in March, with most prices varying more by township than by product. Vegetable prices were stable in Loikaw and Kawkareik in March, but prices increased in Taungoo and they were mixed in Hpapun. Taungoo saw the most dramatic vegetable price shifts, with eggplant and garlic prices up sharply.
Hygiene Products – Prices for hygiene products rose in Hpapun and Taungoo in March while holding stable elsewhere. Prices for toothpaste, detergent and sanitary pads rose by 7% or more in Hpapun and Taungoo, but all three were stable in Kawkareik and Loikaw. Price hikes for hygiene products were largest in Taungoo.
Meat and Fish – Meat and fish prices were stable or falling in March. Prices for shrimp and fish paste were stable in March, while chicken prices fell by 5-11% in three of four markets monitored. The picture was more mixed for fresh fish, dried fish and pork, with prices rising or falling by 6% or more for each of these products.
Other NFIs – NFI prices were stable or falling slightly in March. NFI prices were virtually unchanged in Kawkareik in March, and elsewhere they shifted by less than 10%. None of the NFIs monitored saw price cuts across all markets, but items like cooking pots and longyis saw price cuts in two of four markets. Price increases for NFIs were very rare in March..."
Source/publisher:
Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-04-28
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Food Security and the economy in Burma, Economic History
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.11 MB
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Description:
"BANGKOK - The World Food Programme (WFP) is closely monitoring Cyclone Mocha, which is expected to make landfall this Sunday in Myanmar and Bangladesh. Working with partners, WFP is gearing up for a large-scale emergency response, putting in place contingency plans, and prepositioning food and relief supplies, vehicles, and emergency equipment. Heavy rainfall is forecast, with the possible risk of floods and landslides, which could impact hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in areas likely to be in the cyclone’s trajectory.
In Myanmar, WFP has pre-positioned enough food to cover the needs of more than 400,000 people in Rakhine State and neighbouring areas for one month. In Bangladesh, WFP fortified biscuits and 230 mt of food stock are ready to be dispatched if needed in and around the camps for the Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar.
“We are preparing for the worst, while hoping for the best. Cyclone Mocha is heading to areas burdened by conflict, poverty, and weak community resilience. Many of the people most likely to be affected are already reliant on regular humanitarian assistance from WFP. They simply cannot afford another disaster,” said Sheela Matthew, WFP Myanmar Deputy Country Director.
Anticipating interruptions to transport and telecommunications services, WFP teams are also putting in place systems to serve the broader humanitarian community with their preparations and potential response to the cyclone.
“The Rohingya refugees are extremely vulnerable to climate shocks, given how disaster-prone the area is and the poor living conditions in the camps. We ask the donor community to continue supporting them in getting through this cyclone and also many other challenges they face, including reduced food assistance due to shrinking donor funding,” said Simone Parchment, WFP Bangladesh Deputy Country Director.
Unimpeded humanitarian access to support communities in need will be critical in responding to any immediate impacts of the cyclone and for the longer-term recovery process..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome)
Date of publication:
2023-05-13
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Climate Change - Burma/Myanmar: general, Climate Change - Migration Global, Cyclones - regional, Natural Disasters - General
Language:
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Title: Bangladesh: Rising violence, insecurity, and protection concerns in Cox’s Bazar refugee camps
Description:
"CRISIS IMPACT OVERVIEW
There are about 931,000 registered Rohingya refugees living in the refugee camps of Ukhia and Teknaf upazilas in Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee settlement (UNHCR 11/04/2023 and 08/04/2021). The Kutupalong Balukhali refugee campsite in Ukhia is the largest and most dense refugee camp in the world, housing more than 630,000 Rohingya refugees (UNHCR 11/04/2023; Better Shelter 18/04/2022). Nearly 30,000 registered Rohingya refugees have been relocated and are living in houses in Bhasan Char, an island off the Bangladeshi coast (UNHCR 11/04/2023; TBS 30/12/2019). All Rohingya refugees living in Cox’s Bazar camps and in Bhasan Char rely on humanitarian assistance to meet their basic needs (ISCG et al. 07/03/2023).
Violence and security incidents inside the Cox’s Bazar Rohingya refugee camps have risen since the beginning of 2022 (ACLED accessed 31/04/2023; The Daily Star 13/12/2022). This has raised protection concerns for Rohingya refugees, including exposure to general and physical insecurity, child-related protection concerns, and gender-based violence. A lack of livelihood and educational opportunities compound these protection issues, as do funding cuts that drive concerns over food insecurity, making the situation for the Rohingya refugees dire. This has led many refugees to undertake dangerous maritime journeys to reach Malaysia or Indonesia. As at early May 2023, Bhasan Char did not report armed group or gang activity or a rise in crime.
Around 60% of the violence and security incidents since 2017 had taken place from 2022 until 20 April 2023. Since 2021, the number of clashes between armed groups and gangs and between armed groups or gangs and Bangladeshi security forces have increased, peaking within less than four months in 2023. ACLED data also revealed a similar but still increasing trend for violence against civilians (ACLED accessed 31/04/2023). Crimes such as murder, kidnapping, rape, robbery, human trafficking, arson, and illicit drug trade have soared in the Rohingya refugee camps in recent years (Reuters 24/01/2023; The Daily Star 13/12/2022)..."
Source/publisher:
ACAPS via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-12
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-12
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations, Burmese refugees in Bangladesh
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Format :
pdf
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731.49 KB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-05-12
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-12
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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456.4 KB
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Description:
"HIGHLIGHTS
According to the UN, an estimated 1,827,000 people were reported internally displaced within Myanmar as of 1 May, including 1,499,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021.
In the North-West, the situation remains highly volatile, notably in Magway and Sagaing Regions. The use of heavy weapons, airstrikes, and widespread torching of homes and villages continue to cause civilian injury, casualties, and large-scale displacement. Landmine incidents were reported, impeding movement and livelihoods. Frequent telecommunication and internet disruptions across multiple locations posed additional operational barriers and weakened communication between affected communities and humanitarian actors.
In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, the informal November 2022 ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Tatmadaw remains. Heavy access constraints contributed to escalating needs and impacted humanitarian organizations’ ability to conduct needs assessments and deliver assistance. Plans to close sites hosting internally displaced people (IDPs) affected by the AA/Tatmadaw conflict have been reported – a move which could impact their safety and access to basic services. The relocation of IDPs in Kyauk Ta Lone camp in Kyaukphyu Township, continues to raise concerns because of the flood risks and limited access to services in the relocation site.
In the South-East, heavy fighting, airstrikes, forced recruitment and access restrictions across all States and Regions, particularly in Myawaddy Township, Kayin State, near the ThailandMyanmar border, were reported. Recurrent cycles of displacements within the affected area as well as to Thailand continued.
In Kachin and Shan (North), frequent airstrikes, indiscriminate shelling of villages, and arson attacks put civilians at risk. Humanitarian operations also faced barriers reaching IDPs due to limited access and safety concerns..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-05-11
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-11
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
11.74 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-05-11
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-10
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
4.52 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-05-06
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.05 MB
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Description:
"CRISIS OVERVIEW
It has been just over two years since Myanmar’s military staged a coup in February 2021 and established itself as the military junta in power, officially known as the State Administrative Council (SAC). Since then, the country has been in a state of emergency, which was extended for an additional six months on 31 January 2023. The state of emergency has enabled the military to assume all government functions and gives the head of the military junta, Min Aung Hlaing, legislative, judicial, and executive powers (AP 01/02/2023).
Mass protests against the military junta started immediately after the coup and became part of a wider peaceful civil disobedience movement, which included strikes and road blockages across the country (BBC 22/02/2021 and 17/02/2021). The opposition to the junta eventually grew into organised armed resistance, as several local ethnic armed groups separately fought the junta in a multifront conflict, partnering to different extents with the People’s Defence Force (PDF) (UK Parliament 17/04/2023).
As at 14 April 2023, the country had reported more than 34,400 casualties and 18,300 incidents of political violence since the February 2021 coup. Of the incidents of political violence, 4,200 involved violence against civilians, and 7,100 involved explosions and remote violence, such as air strikes (ACLED accessed 20/04/2023 a). Between February 2021 and January 2023, there were at least 600 reported incidents of air strikes (ACLED accessed 20/04/2023 a; BBC 31/01/2023; IISS 15/11/2022). The air strikes and clashes have damaged schools, medical facilities, sites of religious significance, civilians’ homes, and other infrastructure (Fairplanet 23/03/2023; The Guardian 21/09/2022; BNI 05/10/2022).
Countrywide, an estimated 17.6 million people are in humanitarian need, including 4.5 million with severe needs, mainly in rural conflict-affected areas (OCHA 06/04/2023). Compared to other regions, Sagaing has had the highest increase in the number of people with humanitarian needs in 2023, with the number reaching 2.6 million as at January 2023. This is already a 35% increase from the 900,000 people in need reported in 2022 (OCHA 15/01/2023 Myanmar ranks the highest for hazard and exposure in the INFORM Risk Index, scoring 9.2/10. The country scores 10/10 for hazards and exposure to human conflict and has a vulnerability score of 5.5/10, with development, deprivation, and inequality being the highest concerns. It has a 6.1/10 lack of coping capacity, which is largely institutional. The country ranks 16th on the INFORM risk list because of high hazard and exposure, vulnerability, and a lack of coping capacity (INFORM accessed 14/04/2023).
Myanmar ranks the highest for hazard and exposure in the INFORM Risk Index, scoring 9.2/10. The country scores 10/10 for hazards and exposure to human conflict and has a vulnerability score of 5.5/10, with development, deprivation, and inequality being the highest concerns. It has a 6.1/10 lack of coping capacity, which is largely institutional. The country ranks 16th on the INFORM risk list because of high hazard and exposure, vulnerability, and a lack of coping capacity (INFORM accessed 14/04/2023)..."
Source/publisher:
ACAPS
Date of publication:
2023-05-04
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.2 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-04-31
Date of entry/update:
2023-05-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
3.18 MB
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Description:
"KEY DISPLACEMENT FIGURES
84,400 - 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
1,477,000 - Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021
1,805,000 - Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 10 April 2023
HIGHLIGHTS
According to the UN, an estimated 1,805,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) were reported across the country as of 10 April 2023, including 1,477,000 people newly displaced since 1 February 2021.
In the North-West, the situation remains extremely volatile, particularly in Magway and Sagaing Regions following the declaration of Martial Law in 26 Townships. This elevated civilians’ risk of arbitrary arrest and detention and sparked an uptick in the number of clashes, checkpoints and destruction of properties.
In the South-East, indiscriminate and targeted shelling, airstrikes, clashes and destruction of properties was reported in Bago (East) and Tanintharyi Regions and Kayin, Kayah, Mon and Shan (South) States. Landmines and explosive remnants of war posed serious protection risks to civilians, especially women and children, and limited IDPs’ access to farmland for livelihoods and areas of origin.
In Kachin and Shan (North), civilian safety also deteriorated. Conflict in areas of IDP returns or planned returns heightened the security risks and reduced livelihoods opportunities for returnees and IDPs. In Shan State (North), protection risks such as forced recruitment continue to be reported.
In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, the informal November 2022 ceasefire between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Tatmadaw continues to hold. In Rakhine State (Central), concerns over IDPs who returned to areas with security and protection risks persists. Stringent restrictions on the Rohingya population’s freedom of movement, access to medical assistance, education and other basic services remain in place. Fears over IDP camp closures and safety in areas of relocation or return continue to be raised by IDPs..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-04-14
Date of entry/update:
2023-04-14
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
11.67 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-04-11
Date of entry/update:
2023-04-11
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
6.17 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-04-06
Date of entry/update:
2023-04-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1 MB
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Description:
"MYANMAR
Conflict involving artillery fire and frequent airstrikes continued in multiple states and regions during the reporting period. In Kachin, there were airstrikes in Hpakant Township, explosions in Mohnyin Township and military operations including civilian arrests in many villages in Hpakant, Shwegue and Sumprabum townships in March. Consequently, more than 1,300 people from several villages in Shwegu Township in Kachin were displaced in early March and are being hosted in 10 displacement sites and forest areas in the same township. Newly displaced people reportedly require food, shelter and other essential relief items and humanitarian partners are working to respond to their needs.
As of 27 March 2023, almost 1.8 million people remained displaced across the country, according to the latest UN figures. This includes more than 1.4 million people displaced since the military takeover..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-04-05
Date of entry/update:
2023-04-05
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.29 MB
Local URL:
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Description:
"SITUATION AT A GLANCE:
4.5 MILLION People Targeted for Humanitarian Assistance in Burma
UN – January 2023
1.4 MILLION IDPs in Burma Displaced Since February 2021
UNHCR – March 2023
1.7 MILLION People Displaced in Burma
UNHCR– March 2023
950,972 Estimated Number of Refugees in Bangladesh
UNHCR – November 2022
1.5 MILLION People Targeted by 2023 Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis Joint Response Plan
UN – March 2023
• Military authorities in Burma declare martial law in 47 townships across Burma, hindering the operations of relief actors and exacerbating protection risks faced by violence-affected populations.
• Fire in a Cox’s Bazar District Rohingya refugee camp on March 5 displaces over 5,200 individuals and damages or destroys more than 2,800 refugee shelters, as well as nearly 160 camp facilities.
• The UN 2023 Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis JRP targets approximately 1.5 million people in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char to receive life-saving assistance..."
Source/publisher:
US Agency for International Development (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-04-04
Date of entry/update:
2023-04-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Burmese refugees in Bangladesh, Internal displacement/forced migration of Rohingyas
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
232.91 KB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-03-10
Date of entry/update:
2023-03-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
8.78 MB
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Description:
"INTRODUCTION:
TBC has been working with the displaced and conflict-affected people of southeastern Myanmar for almost forty years to address humanitarian needs and protection concerns of people impacted by fighting and recurrent displacement and to support rights-based and community-led approaches to peace and development.
This document outlines the current context and TBC’s primary ambitions and commitments for 2023 – 2025. It details the four strategic directions that will guide programming in Thailand and southeastern Myanmar. It was developed in close consultation with the TBC board, members, staff , partners and other stakeholders.....VISION:
TBC envisions a future where displaced communities can realise human rights and embrace diversity to live in safety and with dignity.....MISSION: TBC is an alliance of civil society organisations working together with displaced and conflict-affected people of southeastern Myanmar to address humanitarian needs and to support rights-based and community driven approaches in pursuit of justice, peace and development....CORE VALUES:
DIGNITY AND RESPECT
JUSTICE AND EQUITY
TRUST AND INTEGRITY
MEANINGFUL PARTICIPATION AND LEADERSHIP
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS (2023-25)
1. PRIORITISE THE HUMANITARIAN IMPERATIVE:
Address the humanitarian needs of displaced and conflict-affected communities, with a focus on especially vulnerable people. Provide equitable access for displaced communities to food, shelter and non-food items.
2. REINFORCE RESILIENCE AND RECOVERY:
Mitigate the longer-term impact of displacement on food security and nutrition. Enhance nutrition, environmental hygiene, climate-smart agriculture, small businesses and access to employment for displaced and conflict-affected communities.
3. PROMOTE PROTECTION AND SAFER FUTURES:
Reduce the exposure of displaced and conflict-affected communities to harm and mobilise safe and dignified pathways. Defend human rights including access to human security in Myanmar, temporary shelter and work in Thailand and resettlement to third countries.
4. STRENGTHEN LOCAL GOVERNANCE:
Diversify representation and enhance accountability in the ownership and oversight of programs and services. Responsibly and transparently manage change in collaboration with refugee and civil society partners, local authorities, donors and other stakeholders..."
Source/publisher:
The Border Consortium (Thailand)
Date of publication:
2023-02-07
Date of entry/update:
2023-03-07
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf pdf pdf pdf
Size:
14.44 MB 10.16 MB 10.39 MB 9.95 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-03-04
Date of entry/update:
2023-03-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations, UN System humanitarian assistance
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pdf
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487.13 KB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-28
Date of entry/update:
2023-03-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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1.08 MB
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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
Date of publication:
2023-02-28
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-28
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
more
Description:
"SITUATION ANALYSIS
Description of the crisis
Entering 2023, it has been two years since the military intervention on 1 February 2021. The country context has become more complex due to the extent of political and civic disorders, including a series of armed clashes, including the use of airstrikes, artillery shells, and heavy weapons between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and various Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) in different states and regions. The economic situation has remained fragile due to transport blocks, locally increased demands, currency devaluation and rampant inflation that has led the prices of the basic food basket and items, fuel, and transportation to increase sharply. Almost half the population in the country is estimated to be living in poverty due to the political crisis and the pre-existing impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite rising humanitarian needs, access to humanitarian assistance has been severely undermined by the heavy restrictions of people’s movements, the imposition of systematic roadblocks, the blackouts and internet shutdowns, and the lengthy bureaucratic processes for approvals through checkpoints at the ground level. Furthermore, a new Organization Registration Law was established for international NGOs, national NGOs and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) since 28 October 2022, which has potential to further limit the work of humanitarian actors in Myanmar. Twice in the course of 2022, ACAPS2 identified Myanmar as one of only four country contexts in the world in which there are extreme constraints for humanitarian access, highlighting the challenges that continue to be faced by all humanitarian organisations, as well as by affected populations seeking to reach humanitarian assistance.
Armed conflicts and clashes have escalated and are still ongoing in states and regions across the country. This has already forced nearly 1.2 million people to flee their homes since the military intervention, out of more than 1.5 million internally displaced in total as of 26 December 2022, living in informal settlements across the country. An estimated 34,380 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries and schools, have been burnt or destroyed since February 2021.
The highest displacements are in the Northwest where 795,600 people (47,200 IDPs in Chin, 124,400 IDPs in Magway and 624,000 IDPs in Sagaing) remain displaced since February 2021. Conflicts and threats have continued to rise across Chin, Magway, and Sagaing due to sustained fighting between MAF and PDFs there, including airstrikes, mortar fires, and ambushes. As a result, security checks and roadblocks have remained tight, affecting movements on roads and waterways and thereby reducing and hindering the capacity of aid workers to deliver humanitarian services.
Many townships in the Northwest also continue to face internet shutdowns.
In the Southeast of the country, armed clashes have continued between the MAF and the joint forces of Karenni Nationalities Defence Forces (KNDF), Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and local PDFs in various townships of Southern Shan, Kayah, Kayin and Mon States, and Eastern Bago and Tanintharyi Regions. There have been reports of airstrikes and artillery fires, resulting in civilian casualties including children. Prohibition of access to many townships in Southern Shan and Kayah State has remained in place with an increased number of checkpoints and tight scrutiny measures, restricting the movement of humanitarian partners into the area. Since the end of September 2022, overall displacements have increased across the Southeast. As of 26 December 2022, around 339,000 people are displaced in the different townships of the Southeast.
Armed clashes between the MAF and the joint forces of Kachin Independent Army (KIA) and PDFs have continued to increase in several townships in Kachin State, including Hpakant and Myitkyina. On 23 October 2022, an airstrike reportedly killed and injured many people including civilians, also displacing around 3,000 people in several villages in Hpakant town. In October and November 2022, a series of continued heavy artillery fires and shelling have been reported in several villages in Hpakant township, including reports of killed civilians and a partially destroyed primary school at Momauk town and, leaving many more people displaced in religious compounds of various townships in Kachin State. Security has been tense in and around Myitkyina due to the heavy reinforcements of the MAF outside the town and military operations associated with the surrounding area.
As of 19 December 2022, there has been a total of more than 90,500 IDPs in Rakhine State. Despite the informal ceasefire agreement between the MAF and the Arakan Army (AA), more than 42 civilians have been reportedly killed during the fighting between August and November 2022, displacing more than 39,000 people in Rakhine and Paletwa township in Chin State. In addition, movement restrictions and roadblocks have caused severe hardship for civilians in the area.
As of 26 December 2022, there were reportedly around 17,300 people displaced in informal settlements in Northern Shan State due to the armed clashes between the MAF and various EAOs. Forced recruitment is one of the major security concerns in Southern Shan State. A total of 153 civilians have been abducted for forced recruitment in various townships of Northern Shan State since January 20221, either for involuntary labour by the military or as fighters by ethnic armed groups or other groups..."
Source/publisher:
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-02-27
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-27
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.66 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-17
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-17
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
38.23 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-14
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-14
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
3.53 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-13
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Public Health, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
7.1 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-05
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-05
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.27 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2023-02-02
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-02
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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646.82 KB
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"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
Date of publication:
2023-02-01
Date of entry/update:
2023-02-01
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Human Rights and international relations, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Public Health
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
32.81 KB
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Description:
"SITUATION AT A GLANCE:
4.5 MILLION People Targeted for Humanitarian Assistance in Burma UN – January 2023
1.2 MILLION IDPs in Burma Displaced Since February 2021 UNHCR – January 2023
1.5 MILLION People Displaced in Burma UNHCR – January 2023
1.5 MILLION People Targeted by 2022 Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis Joint Response Plan UN – March 2022
950,972 Estimated Number of Refugees in Bangladesh UNHCR – November 2022
The 2023 Burma HRP targets approximately 4.5 million people for life-saving humanitarian assistance, of an estimated 17.6 million people in need, reflecting a significant rise in humanitarian needs countrywide since the February 1, 2021, coup d’état.
Hostilities between the MAF and EAOs continued across Burma in early 2023, particularly in northern Shan State and southeastern areas of the country, displacing 68,700 individuals nationwide.
At least 348 Rohingya refugees died attempting to leave Burma and Bangladesh via perilous boat journeys across the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal in search of safety and livelihood opportunities during 2022..."
Source/publisher:
US Agency for International Development (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-31
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
263.18 KB
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Description:
"Introduction:
Under the Myanmar Community Resilience Project (MCRP), the World Bank will be supporting World Food Programme’s (WFP’s) proposed interventions within the scope of its life-saving food and nutrition assistance to conflict-affected populations in Rakhine State in Myanmar. The objective of the MCRP is to maintain and build resilience of vulnerable populations to enable their future development. This Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) has been prepared to comply with the World Bank Environmental and Social Standard 10 on Stakeholder Engagement and covers the interventions supported by the Project that will be implemented by WFP. During the prepartion of activites under the MCRP, WFP has and will provide stakeholders with timely, relevant, understandable and accessible information, and consult with them in a culturally appropriate manner, which is free of manipulation, interference, coercion, discrimination and intimidation. The SEP outlines the ways in which the WFP has and will continue to communicate with project stakeholders and includes the description of the grievance mechanism/community feedback mechanism used by WFP for people to raise concerns, provide feedback, or make complaints about any activities related to the project. This mechanism is essential to the success of the project to ensure smooth collaboration between the WFP and local communities, as well as to minimize and mitigate environmental and social risks related to the proposed activities..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-30
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.21 MB
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Description:
"Uncertainty weighs on Myanmar’s economy
Yangon, January 30, 2023 – Myanmar’s economy remains subject to significant uncertainty, with ongoing conflict disrupting business operations, a World Bank report released today says.
While some firms are showing signs of resilience, household incomes remain weak, and Myanmar’s potential for inclusive growth has been severely weakened by recent shocks, according to the report, Myanmar Economic Monitor: Navigating Uncertainty.
Gradual economic recovery is expected in the near term and growth is estimated at 3 percent for the fiscal year ending September 2023. Even so, economic activity continues to be adversely affected by conflict, electricity shortages, and changing rules and regulations, with per capita GDP expected to remain about 13 percent below its pre-COVID-19 level. The depreciating kyat, combined with high global prices and ongoing logistics constraints, has caused import costs to rise sharply.
The cumulative impact of these shocks fuels inflation and further reduces real incomes. In July and August 2022, almost half of all households in the country reported income losses. Families have been reducing food and non-food consumption in response.
“Although business conditions improved toward the end of 2022, the recent economic indicators are mixed,” said World Bank Country Director for Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Lao PDR, Mariam Sherman. “While conflict remains, families suffer from insecurity and violence. Firms, particularly those in the agriculture sector, are experiencing higher costs and delays. Funding for critical health and education services is falling, and lack of trust in public services is increasing. These problems will hinder Myanmar’s long-term economic prosperity.”
Economic recovery from the shocks of COVID-19 and the military coup is likely to be constrained by macroeconomic and regulatory uncertainty. The gloomy global economic outlook, which affects Myanmar’s major trading partners including the United States, the European Union, and China, will further weigh on the country’s growth prospects.
Frequent changes to rules and regulations have led to greater uncertainty around access to foreign exchange and imports, reducing confidence in payment systems and delaying customs processes. Some businesses are findings ways to cope with the challenging conditions, through access to favorable exchange rates or exemptions from regulatory requirements. Others have switched to informal channels for payments and goods trade.
In the absence of more shocks, the economy is expected to expand slowly beyond 2023, but at rates well below those observed before the pandemic. Downside risks include the possibility that conflict may intensify in 2023, while geopolitical tensions could escalate. Growth is likely to suffer in the medium to long term as resources are taken from competitive and export-oriented areas. Lost months of education, with rapid increases in unemployment and internal displacement, will reduce already low levels of human capital and productive capacity over the long term.
Myanmar could strengthen economic growth by reconsidering its exchange rate policy, which causes high inflation, fiscal deficits, weak exports and low growth rates. The report recommends a more unified and market-oriented exchange rate system, which would help stabilize the economy, reduce inflation, boost trade, and minimize market distortions..."
Source/publisher:
World Bank
Date of publication:
2023-01-30
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Banking, Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
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pdf pdf
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2.51 MB 1.36 MB
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Description:
"Key highlights:
Based on the remote Consolidated Approach for Reporting Indicators of Food Security (rCARI), 27 percent of households are considered food insecure and, according to the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), 29 percent are recently moderately or severely food insecure.
The states and regions of Chin, Kayah, Kayin, Rakhine and Sagaing had the worst food security outcomes across all indicators.
The reliance on food-related coping strategies has increased, particularly the consumption of less preferred or less expensive food, employed by four out of ten households.
One in two households had to rely on crisis and emergency coping mechansisms that are more difficult to reverse and likely to reduce future income streams and production levels. Asset-depletion among farmers could be a contributing factor to poor production. Poor production is associated with food insecurity at a household level, but there are also concerns for future agricultural production.
Sustained retrenchment of the area planted compared to previous rounds was reported.
The 2022 main rainfed paddy crop, which accounts for more than 80 percent of the annual production, was expected to be below-average as harvest was approaching at the time of the survey. The share of farmers that reported a drop in production has grown from 45 percent in the second round, to 49 percent in the third round and 54 percent in the current round.
Farmers in Rakhine State expect particularly poor production. In Chin, Magway, Sagaing, Tanintharyi and Yangon, a high share of households also expect harvest to be below normal.
Forty-seven percent of livestock producers experienced a decrease in herd/flock size, particularly among swine and poultry producers. The incidence of livestock diseases decreased, and market access improved, but the share of reported difficulties accessing feed and pastures has increased.
Households in conflict-affected areas, rural households, female-headed households, households with debt, and those vulnerable to economic shocks had the worst food security outcomes.
These findings suggest a need for food assistance to the most vulnerable households and agricultural assistance to support production in the upcoming season..."
Source/publisher:
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and World Food Programme via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-25
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-25
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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"Response Plan Overview:
The Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan requests US$764 million to reach 4.5 million people prioritized for life-saving humanitarian support (52 per cent women, 32 percent children and 13 per cent with disability).
The people of Myanmar have entered 2023 facing an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, human rights and humanitarian crisis with residual needs persisting from previous years, and new needs flowing from security and conflict dynamics since the military takeover on 1 February 2021. Almost half the population is thought to be living in poverty in 2023, wiping out the impressive development gains made since 2005.1 The number of people on the move as a result of conflict and depleted coping capacity has sky-rocketed in 2022 and stands at 1.5 million at the start of 2023.2 Price hikes, severe inflation, movement restrictions, armed conflict and violence have forced many of the most vulnerable people to resort to crisis or emergency coping strategies to buy food and other basic supplies, often negatively impacting on their safety, well-being, and dignity. This multi-dimensional humanitarian crisis is now affecting the whole country, posing grave protection risks for civilians, limiting access to services and deepening food insecurity.
The grim outlook outlined in the HNO makes a scaled-up, context-adapted humanitarian response essential in 2023 to prevent loss of life and reduce suffering. This response will be delivered through coordination architecture that is more fi t-for-purpose as recommended by a 2022 P2P review of the response. A new HCT Localization Strategy and workstream, also recommended by the P-2-P report, will be central to response delivery in 2023.
The UN SERRP will also have a critical complementary nexus role to play in 2023 by preventing more people from slipping into humanitarian need by addressing the root causes of the crisis, targeting those who are impoverished and at-risk but not yet in humanitarian need, supporting people to build their resilience and recover from humanitarian situations, and pivoting available development resources to reach those with urgent needs whom humanitarians are not able to reach due to funding constraints through different kinds of support. Nexus interventions under the SERRP will complement the HRP by increasing access to services and strengthening the communities’ socioeconomic resilience, as well as contributing to preventing people from slipping into situations where they must rely on humanitarian assistance for survival.
After a broader urban and rural response was implemented in 2022, addressing the humanitarian consequences and most severe economic impacts of COVID-19, as well as the conflict, the humanitarian response strategy in 2023 follows a slightly narrower geographical scope of action. In agreement with the development community in Myanmar, the HRP in 2023 will focus predominantly on people in need in rural areas, essentially transitioning the signifi cant caseload of vulnerable people in peri-urban and urban areas to development partners for more durable support through programming focused on resilience, prevention, and improved living conditions.
The HRP is strategically aimed at providing life-saving assistance to those immediately affected by shocks, including people who are displaced, as well as those who are acutely crisis-affected and have humanitarian needs. The response will aim to alleviate suffering for people facing acute vulnerabilities such as mental and physical disability; those using dangerous coping strategies; internally displaced people and returnees; and those living in households headed by women, children, or the elderly. There is a heavy emphasis on addressing food insecurity in the Response Plan given the worsening national trends and enormous needs revealed in the HNO analysis for 2023. Protection responses and advocacy are a top priority that will be implemented through systematic information collection, protection monitoring and analysis, guided by the HCT’s newly updated Protection Strategy.
The focus will be on identifying people with specific needs and reaching the most at-risk with life-saving and emergency protection services that reduce the adoption of negative coping strategies and improve people’s safety and dignity.
In 2022, humanitarian partners demonstrated their ability to scale up their response in the difficult new operating environment reaching at least 3.9 million people3 out of the 6.2 million people targeted for assistance in the HRP by September using adopting flexible response modalities to ensure continuity of operations. However, this assistance has not been as multi-sectoral or as weighted towards new conflict areas as planned due to gross under-funding and heavy access constraints.
Despite a shrinking space for the humanitarian response, operational partners continue to have presence and capacity across the country and are committed to staying and delivering a well-coordinated life-saving response amid increasingly challenging circumstances in 2023. With all clusters (except Logistics) fully activated nationally, humanitarian organizations have gone to great lengths to expand their footprint into areas of new need and are reaching increasing numbers of people affected by the expanding conflict. In addition to established partners who have demonstrated the scope to expand their existing response, a major effort is ongoing to link up with new partners, particularly local organizations, to increase access and reach, especially into hard-to-reach, conflict areas. At the start of 2023, 219 operational cluster partners stand ready to provide life-saving assistance to people in need, a significant increase from the 130 partners operational in quarter 1 of 2022.4
In 2023, humanitarians will continue to try all viable avenues to deliver assistance and alleviate the suffering of affected people, recognizing that there are some areas that are easier for certain actors to reach than others - especially at-scale. Those who are in-country will continue working to keep an internal window of access to affected people open - often by supporting local partners working heroically in the deep field - while simultaneously coordinating with those who are delivering assistance through remote modalities. Expanded humanitarian access, especially to conflict-affected areas, is vital to delivering on the HRP’s aims and partners will continue to employ a principled approach to access negotiations. To deepen access in all areas of the country and enable humanitarian organizations to deliver assistance, the revitalized Humanitarian Access Working Group (HAWG) will guide analysis, access and civil-military coordination and advocacy.
Alternative delivery approaches, including cash, remote and private sector modalities will continue to be explored to reach more people in the constrained environment. In line with standard global approaches, humanitarians will continue to engage with all sides to secure access to people in need of humanitarian support and raise protection concerns with parties to the conflict. Such engagement is a practical necessity to ensure staff can safely enter conflict areas to deliver assistance. Politicization of this practical humanitarian engagement and instrumentalization of humanitarian actors in 2022 has put staff in danger and there are concerns about the safety of aid workers in this highly charged environment. To ensure no one is left behind, humanitarian workers in Myanmar must be allowed to do their jobs free from restrictions and harassment, in line with all the protections afforded to them under International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
Despite the predominant public discourse, humanitarian focus group discussions (FGDs) with affected people in different parts of the country over the past year have consistently suggested that the most vulnerable people want humanitarians to continue with our existing work to meet their urgent and immediate needs, whatever way they can. These less visible but very vulnerable people who are receiving vital assistance continue to tell humanitarian actors that their help is a lifeline and that they are fearful of it stopping.
The response will continue to emphasize the importance of enhancing AAP work, reinforcing Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA); preventing and responding to Gender-Based Violence (GBV); strengthening gender, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS); and promoting and delivering on disability inclusion. Humanitarian systems will be strengthened through dedicated technical working groups on these areas, as well as other cross-cutting and thematic topics. Cash will play an increasingly important role in the restrictive operational environment as a means to get assistance to people in need. Cash coordination will be scaled up in 2023 with an in-depth review planned on the feasibility of moving to a genuine multi-purpose cash approach, encompassing the breadth of the humanitarian response in 2024..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-25
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-25
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UN System humanitarian assistance, Agricultural Economics, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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"Context, crisis, impacts and needs The people of Myanmar continue to pay a high price for two years of political instability, sparked by the 1 February 2021 military takeover of the democratically elected National League For Democracy (NLD) Government. The takeover unleashed an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, and humanitarian crisis on top of the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, sending the country into a dangerous spiral of conflict and poverty. The political situation has prompted an escalation in fighting across the country, characterized by violations of iInternational Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (IHRL), including aerial bombardment, burning of homes,
and other indiscriminate attacks in civilian areas by the military, as well as use of land mines and other explosive ordnance (EO), and recruitment of minors by multiple armed actors. This has resulted in significant displacement, human suffering, asset depletion, rising food insecurity and reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. Almost half the country is estimated to be living in poverty as a result of both the political situation and legacy impacts from the pandemic.
The spate of violence, including attacks and clashes, across Myanmar throughout 2022 had a severe impact on the physical and mental well-being of millions of people. Displacement surged to record levels in 2022. Nearly 1.2 million people have fled their homes since 1 February 2021, bringing the total number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Myanmar to a staggering 1.5 million as of 26 December 2022, with no signs that displacement is slowing down heading into 2023. On top of this, the rapid depreciation of the Myanmar Kyat, inflation, movement restrictions and active fighting are causing a reduction in food production and are pushing the price of food beyond the reach of many families.
Despite the immense needs and commitment of international and national organizations, humanitarian assistance and access to affected people remained heavily restricted in 2022, essentially increasing reliance on local networks of responders in conflict areas. Administrative barriers for travelauthorizations (TAs), incidents of detention and arrest of humanitarian actors, intimidation and harassment, and frequent security checkpoints all constrained humanitarian access to people in need in 2022. Restrictions on telecommunications and internet networks further hindered timely and safe humanitarian access and assistance to people in need.
Evolution of needs 2022-2023 With no respite from conflict or political and economic turbulence in sight, 2023 will be another year of dire struggle for the people of Myanmar. A total of 17.6 million people are expected to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023, up from 14.4 million last year and 1 million people before the military takeover. A third of those in need are children.
2023 is expected to witness continued political instability, ongoing or escalating armed conflict, persistent displacement, slow or stagnant economic growth, as well as continued interruptions and poor access to basic services. Continued or increased intensity and frequency of armed conflict will result in more communities being displaced: an additional 1.4 million people are projected to flee their homes in 2023, taking the total displaced population to 2.7 million. Protection risks, especially in hard-to-reach conflict areas, are expected to continue, including increased EO threats, forced recruitment, human trafficking, and human rights violations. Agricultural disruptions due to conflict and displacement, EO-contaminated land, and high input prices will have a serious impact on the national economy and food availability in the country.
The number of people experiencing food insecurity will rise to 15.2 million people in 2023, up from 13.2 million in 2022.
Scope of analysis Given the dramatic deterioration in the situation over the course of 2021 and 2022, the anticipated depth of needs in new areas, and the overall deterioration of the food security and livelihoods situation country- wide, the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) has continued using the broader, national analysis of the humanitarian situation and needs in Myanmar in2023. The 2023 numbers reflect the unprecedented scale and humanitarian consequences of the current crisis, especially for women and children and other vulnerable groups. The methodology and scope of analysis frame the situation in Myanmar as a whole- of-country, complex and multi-dimensional crisis, where there are grave protection concerns and risks, and food insecurity is deepening, requiring scaled-up humanitarian, nexus and development interventions to stop people slipping into more severe need, including acute malnutrition.
Population groups The HCT will continue to deploy a vulnerability-sensitive approach in 2023 covering displaced, returned, stateless and crisis-affected people where they have humanitarian needs. The approach covers those who are more directly “shock-affected,” such as displaced populations, returned, resettled, or integrated IDPs, and non-displaced stateless people. A broader group of “other crisis-affected people with humanitarian needs” includes those affected by natural disasters; IDP host communities; people living in high conflict areas with restricted access to basic services to support their own survival; people with severe protection needs (employing negative coping mechanisms; victims of trafficking, exploitation and the most vulnerable migrants with humanitarian needs; EO victims; people with multiple vulnerabilities); non-displaced people in moderate or severe food insecurity or those who are facing malnutrition, people affected by other severe shocks who are unable to support their own survival.
In a bid to more accurately reflect and plan for the scale of displacement and IDP needs, the HCT has projected likely displacement through until the end of 2023. While actual displacement as of 26 December 2022 stands at 1.5 million, the Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) has anticipated that displacement will continue to grow at a similar rate as 2022 during 2023, meaning there would be 2.7 million people displaced and in need by year’s end. The Needs Monitoring and Analysis Working Group (NMA WG) used a combination of data to develop this common displacement planning figure including looking at movement trends, 2023 scenarios and assumptions,expert opinion, and a severity scale analysis on displacement drivers, trends, and the presence of armed groups. A similar planning figure has been projected for returns (512,000 people) and for those likely to need humanitarian assistance as a result of natural disasters in 2023 (50,000 people). This disaster impact figure was developed based on an analysis of historical trends which vary significantly from year-to- year, despite Myanmar being one of the most disaster- prone countries in the world.
This HNO applies protection, gender, age, disability, mental health, and accountability lenses to its analysis with sex and age disaggregated data used throughout, where it is available.
Humanitarian conditions, severity, and people in need The number of people estimated to have humanitarian needs was calculated using the globally-endorsed Joint Intersectoral Analysis Framework (JIAF) approach, which looks holistically at the needs facing people in Myanmar and measures the severity of these needs. This severity analysis shows that the spread of the crisis is such that the entire population of 56 million people is now facing some level of need.
Two thirds (67 per cent) are in stress, a quarter (23 per cent) are in severe need and almost one tenth (8 per cent) are facing extreme needs. In 2023, a much higher proportion of the population has been identified as being in these more serious needs categories compared to 2022, which is the result of the cumulative impact of expanding conflict, economic instability, negative coping strategies and unmet needs since the military takeover.
Two nationwide datasets were available and heavily relied on to inform this evidence-based analysis, providing a higher level of confidence in results than 2022 due to improved ability to verify and triangulate data. The first was a Multi-Sector Needs Analysis (MSNA) conducted across Myanmar for the first time using a hybrid approach with in person and remote data collection. The second was the latest round fo the joint Food Security and Livelihood Assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), conducted between August and September 2022 in 14 regions and states. Together, these nationwide datasets were used to determine the severity of need and intersectoral vulnerability calculations, as well as forming the basis for much of the sectoral needs analyses. The Food Security and Livelihood Assessment, conducted in 2021 and also in April 2022, allows for comparisons of the food security situation over time, while the MSNA allows for a multi-sectoral understanding of needs across population groups..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-15
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-15
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Climate Change - Burma/Myanmar: general, Biodiversity - global and regional, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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6.74 MB (Original version) - 119 pages
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"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)
Date of publication:
2023-01-04
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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1008.9 KB
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"(Excerpt)
Key factors driving price changes
Kachin
Egg, rice, and onion price increases due to increased transportation costs in Putao, Tanai, and Mansi. In Hpakant increases in the price of rice due to vehicles carrying rice not allowed to pass.
Tanintharyi
Dawei, Yebyu - chickpea prices increased due to less stock and growing demand for pulses produced in Mon state. Most traders and shop owners order pulses from Mawlamyine.
Magway
Pakokku - less onions available on the market and scarcity of Sadawpe pulses during the growing season so prices increased. Magway and Minbu price of peanuts and peanut oil increased due to increased demand locally.
Central Rakhine
Traders mentioned the political situation and transport difficulties.
Yangon
North Okkalapa - onion and chickpea prices increased due to increased wholesale prices.
Shan
NawngHkit, Linhaw, Namtu - mixed oil and egg prices increased due to slightly higher transportation costs..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2023-01-03
Date of entry/update:
2023-01-03
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, WFP (World Food Programme)
Language:
Format :
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Size:
2.06 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2022-12-30
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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"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)
Date of publication:
2022-12-30
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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"In this research note, we provide an overview of the state of food security and nutrition in Myanmar using a recently collected household dataset. We examine food security using a household hunger scale and a food consumption score. To examine the state of nutrition, we examine the diet quality of individuals across Myanmar for three separate but important sections of population: (1) adults (18+ years), (2) women of reproductive age (15-49 years), and (3) children (6-23 and 6-59 months). We explore these indicators using three rounds of the Myanmar Household Welfare Survey (MHWS) collected over the phone in the first three quarters of 2022 – hereafter Q1, Q2 and Q3 – among over 12,000 households in 310 townships of Myanmar. MWHS is a nationally, urban/rural and state/region representative phone survey (MAPSA 2022a). We use standard food security and diet diversity measures for each of the three subpopulations to examine trends over the three rounds as well as explore heterogeneity with respect to gender, location of residence, and asset and income-based welfare indicators. We also look at disaggregated consumption of the different food groups that constitute the diet diversity measures to investigate the change in the consumption pattern of individuals. Finally, we use regression analysis to look at predictors of food insecurity and inadequate diet diversity, including household wealth and income, self-reported shocks, food prices, and household characteristics..."
Source/publisher:
International Food Policy Research Institute (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-12-09
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-09
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Rural development in Burma/Myanmar
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pdf
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710.3 KB
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"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
1,143,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar, displaced since 1 February 2021* Source: UN in Myanmar
1,473,000 Estimated total internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Myanmar as of 5 December 2022* Source: UN in Myanmar.....
HIGHLIGHTS.....
According to the UN, there were an estimated 1,473,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) within Myanmar during the reporting period, including 1,143,000 people who have been newly displaced since 1 February 2021.
In the North-West, the security situation remains volatile across Chin State and Sagaing and Magway Regions. Displacement due to active armed clashes, arson and airstrikes continue.
Humanitarian access has been challenging, particularly in Sagaing Region where the needs are most acute. Conflict is expected to escalate in the winter months, leaving civilians increasingly at risk of attacks.
In Rakhine and Chin (South) States, clashes, indiscriminate shelling and landmine explosions were reported. Food shortages and limited humanitarian support due to movement restrictions have affected communities, particularly in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Myebon, Kyauktaw and Pauktaw. The situation in Rakhine State has been generally calm albeit tense following the announcement of an informal ceasefire agreement between the Tatmadaw and the Arakan Army (AA) in late November. Since then, returns by displaced families to their places of origin have begun taking place. While humanitarian access remains challenging, the opening of waterways and roads has enabled the movement of much-needed goods, resulting in a decrease in the cost of basic commodities.
In Kachin and Shan (North), humanitarian access across Kachin and Shan (North) States is limited, particularly in active conflict areas. Movement restrictions continue to be reported due to the heightened risk of forced recruitment, robbery, physical assault and arbitrary arrest particularly in the evenings.
In the South-East, the security situation is precarious and has affected the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Indiscriminate shelling, arrests and destruction of civilian property continues. Insufficient access to food, water, healthcare and core relief items (CRIs) are among the main concerns cited by IDP families..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-12-08
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-08
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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pdf
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8.34 MB
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"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)
Date of publication:
2022-12-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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Format :
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3.33 MB
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"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)
Date of publication:
2022-12-05
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-05
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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Format :
pdf
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1 MB
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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)
Date of publication:
2022-12-03
Date of entry/update:
2022-12-03
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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pdf
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861.89 KB
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"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)
Date of publication:
2022-11-30
Date of entry/update:
2022-11-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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Format :
pdf
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487.52 KB
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"NATIONAL SOCIETY PROFILE:
The Myanmar Red Cross Society is an independent, impartial and neutral humanitarian organization. It began its operations in 1920 as a branch of the Indian Red Cross. After Burma formally separated from India in 1937, the Society obtained official national status and was admitted to the IFRC in 1946. It is the oldest humanitarian organization in Myanmar. The National Society counts 692 staff and 40,000 volunteers. It operates through 330 township branches, 17 supervisory committees (states, regions and Naypyitaw Union Territory), and has branches in universities, colleges, and sub-branches at town, ward, village tract and schools across the country.
The role of the National Society – to serve independently and voluntarily while acting as the auxiliary of the state in the humanitarian field, in accordance with the Red Cross Red Crescent Fundamental Principles – is enshrined in the Myanmar Red Cross Society Law 2015.
The Myanmar Red Cross Society Strategic Plan (2021-2025) sets the following three goals:
Build healthier and safer communities, reduce their vulnerabilities and strengthen their resilience
Promote understanding and respect for the Red Cross Principles, Humanitarian Values, and International Humanitarian Law as a means to promoting social cohesion and non-violence
Strengthen understanding of the Myanmar Red Cross’s auxiliary role among the humanitarian sector by developing a strong, well-functioning and resourceful National Society
According to its Strategic Plan, 2021–2025, with partner support, the Myanmar Red Cross aims to equip Red Cross volunteers, national headquarters and state, regional and township branches with the technical, financial and material resources “to be a well-functioning National Society with the capacity of providing humanitarian services to the most vulnerable people in Myanmar and beyond.”
The National Society plans to extend its traditional emergency response activities – including the delivery of ambulance and first aid services, primary health care, water, sanitation and hygiene services, psychosocial support and protection – while also developing its preparedness through disaster risk reduction, anticipatory action and resilience building.
To support these ambitions, the National Society plans to enhance its institutional capacity through branch development and decentralization, volunteer and youth management and capacity building, resource mobilization and human resource management, and partnership frameworks.
IFRC NETWORK ACTION IN 2023
Joint situational analysis
In 2023, the humanitarian situation in Myanmar will continue to be dominated by the ongoing complex emergency. This protracted crisis is the result of longstanding violence between state forces and ethnic armed organizations in border regions of the country; the situation deteriorated further following a military intervention on 1 February 2021. Moreover, the impacts of COVID-19 continue to slow socio-economic recovery in the country.
Since February 2021, there has been a marked increase in civil unrest and political instability in Myanmar. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), there are currently 12 ongoing non-international armed conflicts in the country.
As a result, insecurity is rising throughout the country, including in major urban centres including Yangon. Food insecurity, limited protection and the inability to access basic services – including mental health and psychosocial support, education and shelter – are expected to continue to be serious humanitarian concerns for 2023.
There are currently more than 1.2 million displaced people in Myanmar – the majority of whom were displaced following the military intervention in February 2021. There are also risks that significantly more people will be internally displaced in the near future, as authorities in Myanmar announced a plan to begin the repatriation of Muslims from Bangladesh. Following the outbreak of ethnic violence in Rakhine State in 2017, some 919,000 Muslims fled to Bangladesh.
Elevated and rising levels of displacement, due to increased levels of violence, present a major humanitarian challenge to displaced people and the communities that host them.
The politicization of humanitarian aid has led to operational challenges for humanitarian organizations including the Myanmar Red Cross and the IFRC network. Humanitarian organizations continue to experience restricted access to affected people, which has a significant impact on humanitarian logistics. Financial restrictions, including challenges in accessing currency, changing bank policies and authority-imposed bureaucratic bottlenecks, have negatively affected the scope of resources available for humanitarian programming and threatened the National Society’s financial sustainability.
Current financial policies have also led to widespread inflation, which continues to increase humanitarian needs across the country. The depreciation of the local currency and the increase in the official foreign exchange rate are likely to continue to affect the National Society’s capacity to plan and implement programmes, while also negatively affecting the ability of humanitarian organizations to deliver aid more broadly.
Accessing health care in Myanmar is difficult, as many health care workers have been participating in civil disobedience activities. Moreover, there is an ongoing lack of medicines and other essential supplies. For internally displaced people, the lack of access to health care is particularly grave as most are unable to access sexual and reproductive services and maternal and child health services. Many are also unable to seek treatment for communicable and non-communicable diseases and do not have access to safe drinking water or sanitation facilities. Additionally, most internally displaced people have unmet needs for mental health and psychosocial support.
While COVID-19 appears to be under control in the country, UNICEF reported that one million children have not been immunized against communicable diseases in Myanmar since 2021. Severe disruptions to the Expanded Programme on Immunization and the lack of access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities are putting children and whole communities at severe risk of infectious and vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks. Internally displaced people are particularly at risk.
Access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities remains inadequate in Myanmar. UN data indicates that 73.8 per cent of the urban population and 52.1 per cent of the rural population use safely managed drinking water. Moreover, according to UN data, only 53.4 per cent of the urban population and 64 per cent of the rural population have access to safely managed sanitation.
Myanmar is also a multi-hazard country and is prone to several hydrometeorological and geophysical hazards such as floods, landslides, cyclones, droughts and earthquakes.
Despite the challenging context, the Myanmar Red Cross will prioritize life-saving actions through a coherent and coordinated set of interventions in 2023 to respond to the increasing humanitarian needs across the country..."
Source/publisher:
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-11-29
Date of entry/update:
2022-11-29
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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Format :
pdf
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2.12 MB
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Description:
"SITUATION AT A GLANCE
6.2 MILLION People Targeted for Humanitarian Assistance in Burma UN – January 2022
1.1 MILLION IDPs in Burma Displaced Since February 2021 UNHCR – November 2022
1.5 MILLION People Displaced in Burma UNHCR – November 2022
1.5 MILLION People Targeted by 2022 Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis Joint Response Plan UN – March 2022
943,529 Estimated Number of Refugees in Bangladesh UNHCR – August 2022
• Heightened AA–MAF hostilities continue in Burma’s Rakhine and southern Chin states with an estimated 16,700 individuals remaining displaced as of November, the UN reports. Humanitarian access to Rakhine and Chin remains restricted amid curfews, military checkpoints, road closures, and violence.
• A MAF air strike results in the deaths of an estimated 80 people, including civilians, in Kachin State’s Hpakant township on October 23, representing the largest recorded mass casualty incidence since the 2021 coup d'état.
• Tropical Cyclone Sitrang damages more than 650 shelters and displaces more than 250 individuals in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar District in late October, relief actors report..."
Source/publisher:
US Agency for International Development (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-11-22
Date of entry/update:
2022-11-23
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, The discussion on humanitarian assistance to Burma
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pdf
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262.66 KB
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"In August 2022, we surveyed 467 active rice millers from 13 states and regions across Myanmar to learn more about the impacts of the current political and COVID-19 crises. This report presents the key results and analysis from those interviews.
Key findings
Electricity and fuel disruptions were cited as the most significant disruption by 91 percent of millers in August 2022. Rising fuel prices and access issues afflicted smaller, local mills while larger mills were more affected by interruptions in electricity supplies.
Continuing a trend from March 2022, banking and credit disruptions were less prevalent in August. Lending and borrowing show only minor changes relative to 2021.
Average milling throughput declined by more than 20 percent compared to a year prior, and stored volumes of both paddy and rice showed similar declines.
Rice prices and milling margins increased sharply by about 40 percent compared to last year, driven by rising global prices, and, most importantly, by a rapid devaluation of Myanmar kyat. In USD terms, the price increases are more modest and closer to global changes. At the parallel (unofficial) exchange rate, prices have declined.
Prices of byproducts (in kyats) have also increased sharply from the last year, especially for rice bran which is important to the animal feed industry.
Looking forward
Looking forward to the 2022 monsoon harvest and marketing season, over half of all millers expect a decline in paddy production of at least 10 percent in their townships and an additional 22 percent of millers expect a smaller decline. Just 3 percent expect their local paddy production to be higher in 2022 monsoon than in 2021.
Changes in input use (e.g., a decline in fertilizer application) are far and away the most cited reason for lower expected paddy production. Half of millers said that less favorable rainfall patterns compared to 2021 are also a factor in lower paddy production.
On top of lower reported throughput in August 2022 and lower storage volumes, a decline in monsoon paddy production would have large implications for both rural and urban households. Lower supply coupled with the continued and widespread disruptions to utilities and transport, could drive prices even higher. At the same time, unpredictable foreign exchange and export policies could make it difficult for value chain actors to anticipate supply and demand conditions, resulting in higher price volatility..."
Source/publisher:
International Food Policy Research Institute
Date of publication:
2022-11-20
Date of entry/update:
2022-11-20
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
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Format :
pdf
Size:
715.08 KB
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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)
Date of publication:
2022-10-26
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-26
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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509.46 KB
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Title: Helping migrant workers, their families, and the host communities with good hygiene practices
Description:
"The migrant-centred “Aye Chan Thaw Ein” (ACTE) project aims to strengthen and empower migrants and their families through multi-sectoral interventions. The project covers such topics as awareness of safe migration and labour rights, enhancing vocational skills and providing opportunities for upward mobility, promoting healthier nutritional behaviour and improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities and practices in Shwe Pyi Thar township, Yangon Region.
Under the project, People in Need (PIN) and our consortium partner, Community Development Association (CDA), have provided lifesaving WASH assistance to migrant workers, their families, and the host community. The project allows migrants to adopt safe hygiene practices and access improved WASH facilities in six wards in the Shwe Pyi Thar township.
The peri-urban area of Yangon, Shwe Pyi Thar township, has been negatively impacted by unhealthy and environmentally unfriendly behaviours, such as dumping waste into drains, rivers, streams, or creeks due to low potential rates of disposal at community dumping sites. This severely impacts and harms the surrounding environment and causes risks for the population during the rainy season.
As part of WASH assistance, we---together with CDA---have improved WASH-related hardware, such as drainage, conducted emergency clearing, and offered innovative solutions for waste management through a participatory community approach. Moreover, CDA awarded community grants to address specific WASH-related issues and promote engagement with the household- and community levels on gender-responsive WASH solutions, including sanitation, hygiene and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and waste management.
Improved access to waste management and drainage system
As part of WASH-related hardware solutions, CDA has constructed 11 concrete community drainage culvert systems in six wards. U Maung Maung (name has been changed for security reasons) member of the targeted wards says, "we thank CDA and donors for upgrading drainage systems and providing emergency cleaning process in our ward. There were floods in our ward in previous rainy seasons due to the lack of good waste disposal management. Most household members are migrant workers in our ward, with minimal waste disposal knowledge. Although we put warning signs at each drain not to throw anything into these drainages, people did not follow the instructions." He adds, "with a small grant program from the CDA and community participation, we renovated our main drain. Because of the support from the ACTE project, the drainage systems are free to flow smoothly, and flooding is also prevented."
U Kyi (name has been changed for security reasons) also expresses his gratitude to CDA, “I lived near the main community drainage. In the past, during heavy rains, waste was stuck in the drainage and caused flooding where water entered our houses. While drain water was trapped, it created bad smells and contained many mosquitoes. Now, these problems have been solved with the support of CDA. Thanks to CDA and its donors for cleaning the drainage system and maintaining the upgrade of it.”
CDA aims to assist and improve the lives of migrant workers and their families by sharing knowledge about improved WASH facilities and good hygiene practices through awareness-raising activities. In total, CDA reached 8,148 individuals, of which 6,242 were women and girls.
As part of the lifesaving WASH assistance, such as drainage systems and waste management, it aimed to benefit a more significant number of community members and migrant workers who reside in the wards for sustainability beyond the project life. CDA also conducted capacity-building activities, especially on sanitation, hygiene and menstrual hygiene management practices at the grassroots level where women, adolescent girls, the elderly and persons with disability can have easier access to learning opportunities.
Regarding the behaviour changes of waste disposal and good hygiene and sanitation practices, CDA conducted behavioural change campaigns at five wards in Shwe Pyi Thar township. Ko Win Htut Thein, a project manager at CDA addresses how to implement good hygiene practices among the host community and internal migrants. "CDA aims to assist and improve the lives of migrant workers and their families by sharing knowledge about improved WASH facilities and good hygiene practices through awareness-raising activities. In total, CDA reached 8,148 individuals, of which 6,242 were women and girls.”
He added that “the awareness sessions focused on intensified hygiene promotion on handwashing and menstrual hygiene management by holding small groups at each ward. Along with this session, CDA distributed hygiene supplies to all participants.” Also, CDA organised three public events on behaviour change, including handwashing, menstrual hygiene, and waste disposal public campaigns from December 2021 to March 2022. CDA also provided hygiene items to the host community and the migrants’ families actively involved in the campaigns. Through menstrual hygiene management awareness and education sessions, CDA reached a total of 2,981 beneficiaries, including 2,709 women and girls and 272 boys and men.
Safe water for host communities and migrant workers
To access safe water and prevent water-borne diseases in Shwe Pyi Thar, CDA has constructed a 200-foot-long community drainage system in ward 21. First, CDA organised a community-level committee on WASH solutions based on their needs and provided a grant to implement with the collaboration of community members.
One of the committee members U Kyaw Moe (name has been changed for security reasons) shares their needs. “Our ward is quite close to Hlaing River, and flood water always enters the ward when it rains. We rely on water sources from community ponds but need to access clean water. Water resources are enough for us in the rainy season, but we face water scarcity in the dry season. With the ACTE project’s long-term support, CDA provided one water truck and constructed the drainage system near the school compound. With this water truck, we will be safe for clean water access and no need to worry about flood water next season. Thanks to CDA and PIN for supporting us.”
People in Need and its consortium partners have been working together under the Aye Chan Thaw Ein project in collaboration with ward development committees to meet the needs of internal migrant workers and reduce the vulnerability of internal migrants with the financial support of the Livelihoods and Food Security Trust Fund (LIFT) in Myanmar..."
Source/publisher:
People in Need
Date of publication:
2022-10-21
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-21
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Rural development in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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Description:
"FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT
Below-average 2022 paddy production forecast
Above-average cereal exports forecast in 2022/23
Prices of rice at record high in August
Persistent conflict continues to cause displacements
Below-average 2022 paddy output forecast
The 2022 main rainfed paddy crop, which accounts for more than 80 percent of the annual production, is approaching the harvest stage. Although drier-than-average conditions in late May and early June delayed planting operations in the central producing areas, the area sown to the main rice crop is estimated close to the five-year average. Precipitation amounts improved from late June and have been generally near-average until September. The total 2022 paddy production, including the secondary crops to be planted at the end of the year, is forecast at 23.8 million tonnes, about 10 percent below the five-year average level. Yields have been affected by limited use of critical agricultural inputs due to their elevated prices. According to a recent survey conducted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), domestic prices of urea and compound fertilizers in July 2022 were 90 and 75 percent, respectively, higher year-on-year, while prices of herbicides and pesticides increased by 50 and 40 percent, respectively.
Cereal exports in 2022/23 forecast at above-average level
Total cereal exports in the 2022/23 marketing year (July/June) are forecast at about 4.2 million tonnes, 15 percent above the average volume. Exports of maize are forecast at a record of 1.7 million tonnes, reflecting the expected production surplus and the steady demand from China (mainland) and Thailand. Rice exports in calendar year 2022 are forecast at 2.3 million tonnes.
The 2022 main maize crop, for harvest from late October, is growing under generally favourable weather conditions (ASI map). Total maize production, including the secondary crops to be planted in November, is forecast at an above-average level of 2.2 million tonnes, reflecting record area planted driven by robust export demand and high domestic prices. However, average yields are projected at the lowest level since 2015 as a result of constrained access to agricultural inputs, as well as pests and diseases.
Prices of rice at record high in August
Domestic prices of “Emata” rice, a widely consumed quality, have steadily increased since January 2022 and reached record highs in August. The price increase was associated with consecutive seasons of production declines, a recovery in exports, high transportation and input costs, and expectations of a below-average production of 2022 main paddy crops. Prices in August were almost 50 percent higher than a year before.
Persistent conflict continues to cause displacements
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), as of September 2022, the number of additional displaced people following the military takeover in February 2021 is estimated at 982 000, bringing the total number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to about 1.3 million. Most IDPs reside in Rakhine, Chin, Kachin, Kayin and Shan states. Macroeconomic difficulties, due to lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability, have caused widespread loss of income and livelihoods, sharply reducing households’ purchasing power. Decreased production stemming from localized paddy crop losses, combined with the high prices of energy, fuel and essential food items, may cause a significant decline in output leading to a deterioration of food security outcomes in 2022/23..."
Source/publisher:
Food and Agriculture Organization (Rome) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-10-18
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-18
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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766.14 KB
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Description:
"To date, this Emergency Appeal, which seeks CHF 4,500,000, is 58 per cent funded. This funding has been crucial to enable the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS), with the support of the IFRC, to continue providing humanitarian assistance and protection to the people on the move, as well to strengthen their preparedness efforts.
A. SITUATION ANALYSIS
Description of the crisis
Since the military intervention on 1 February 2021, the country has remained in a state of political crisis as the economy falters and the humanitarian situation worsens. The country is now entering the second year of the crisis, where the complexity and multi-dimensional characteristics have been fuelled by ongoing inter-factional tensions. The pre-existing impact of COVID-19 has escalated the suffering of the people and the recovery has yet to be seen.
Fighting continues in states and regions across Myanmar to oppose the State Administration Council (SAC) in towns and villages. The security and humanitarian situation across Myanmar thus remain tense, with escalating violence and armed clashes. Nearly 2,000 civilians are reported as having been killed during the incidents since the military intervention. This has led to new displacements that, as of 2 September 2022, have resulted in more than 974,000 people displaced, including more than 250,000 children since 1 February 2021. This is an addition to the pre-existing displacement in the country, making up a total of over 1.3 million internally displaced people (IDPs) across the country. The number of IDPs is not stable as the IDPs remain on the move.
The increase in commodity prices, including food and fuel, due to inflation and global food supply, has worsened and increased the vulnerability of the affected people. Main services in the country have significantly reduced, such as banking, primary health services, and education. The disruption of the banking system has had an impact on access to cash, in turn delaying the delivery of humanitarian assistance, in addition to movement and access restrictions. The monsoon season has started and continues to cause heavy rain and flooding. During the month of June 2022, about 600 people were relocated to higher grounds due to flooding in Kachin state. In August 2022, the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) supported aid-delivering services with the people affected by the flood in Yak Sauk Township in Southern Shan State. With the reduction of primary health care across the country, the spread of communicable and waterborne diseases may increase challenges in accessing reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH), including antenatal care and support to pregnant women. More than four million children – half of the school-aged children – are estimated as not having accessed education for two full academic years.
There has been an increase in armed clashes between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF), ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) and the local People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) in the country’s northwest, as well as other parts of the country. More than 18,000 civilians’ properties, including houses, churches, monasteries, and schools are reported as having been destroyed, burnt and searched, due to the clashes and violence, and people displaced in Sagaing and Magway regions and Chin state. The armed clashes have led to the increase of travel restrictions issued by the authority and to the limitation of humanitarian access, especially in the southeast and northwest.
Since June 2022, armed violence between the SAC and the Arakan Army (AA) has escalated in northern parts of Rakhine State. In August 2022, frequent fighting including the use of heavy weapons has been reported in Rakhine State — especially in the townships of Rathedaung, Buthidaung, Maungdaw (northern Rakhine), Mrauk-U, Minbya, Kyauktaw, (central Rakhine) and Taungup (southern Rakhine), and in Paletwa Township of Southern Chin State. The escalation of armed violence across Rakhine State and Southern Chin State has already had a marked humanitarian impact in those areas, including an increase in displacement in northern Rakhine State. Access is still challenging as many areas including waterways and roads have been blocked in northern Rakhine State, while medical supplies and food have been restricted into Paletwa Township in southern Chin State..."
Source/publisher:
International Federation of Red Cross And Red Crescent Societies (Geneva) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-10-14
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-14
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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1.26 MB (Original version) - 27 pages
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Description:
"Highlights:
The cost of the basic food basket (rice, oil, chickpeas, salt) continues to rise, up +14% month-on-month, driven by rising edible oil and rice prices. The average price ranges from 21,000 kyat to 28,000 kyat for a basket.
Currency depreciation continues to cause inflation in markets.
Despite fixed rate at Central Bank of Myanmar of 2100 kyat, the average market exchange rate remains 15-20% higher.
Rice prices are the latest commodity to see considerable increases this month (overall +14%) due to a combination of factors including increased production costs, currency depreciation, rising fuel prices, declining stocks and concerns over output in the coming season.
Onion prices continue upward trend as stocks dwindle and the summer harvest remains several months away. The overall increase was +24%.
Edible oil prices rose again by 15-17% despite overall global declines in vegetable oil prices, driven by the currency devaluation and transportation costs.
Egg prices also increased again this month as input prices (chicken feed) and fuel prices continue to be high.
Fuel prices increased 28% on average (month-on-month) and are more than double that of one year ago..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-10-13
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.78 MB
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Description:
"Highlights: As of 26 September, the number of internally displaced people has reached 1,347,400, including 1,017,000 displaced since the military takeover in February 2021 and 330,400 living in protracted displacement prior to the coup.
On 16 September, at least 11 children died as a result of an air strike and indiscriminate fire in civilian areas, including a school, in Tabayin Township, in the Sagaing region.
In Rakhine, the security situation continues to deteriorate. Movement restrictions are being imposed as a result of continuing clashes between the Arakan Army and Myanmar Armed Forces, severely affecting humanitarian interventions and the ability of aid workers to reach the affected population. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reports that almost 13,400 people have been newly displaced in the region as of 26 September.
Although the UNICEF nutrition programme is facing a funding gap of 85 per cent, implementing partners have been able to reach 32,119 children aged 6–59 months (15,821 girls) with preventive nutrition services, including multiple micronutrient powder and vitamin A supplementation.
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, need assistance. During September 2022, UNICEF has received generous contributions from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), the European Commission’s Humanitarian Office (ECHO), the German Federal Foreign Office, the Global Thematic Fund, the Government of Denmark, the Government of Japan, the Government of Norway, the Korean Committee for UNICEF and UNOCHA.
UNICEF Myanmar has so far received US$34.13 million, representing an increase of US$2.2 million from the previous reporting period. 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, Genderbased violence in emergencies (GBViE), Protection of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA), Social protection,
Accountability affected population (AAP) and Cluster coordination. UNICEF continues to respond to the Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal but experienced an overall funding gap of 77 per cent that significantly affects the provision of humanitarian assistance and services to the targeted populations, especially children in need. UNICEF can scale up responses and accelerate service deliveries to the targeted population 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 escalating conflict and violence, rising poverty and a struggling economy due to inflation continues to severely affect children and families across Myanmar. As of 26 September, the conflict has displaced 1,347,400 people, including an estimated 471,590 children, who need critical humanitarian assistance. More than half of the displaced population is in Sagaing region, accounting for 545,200 people, where the volatility of the situation and active military operations continue to trigger displacements. On 16 September, in Tabayin township of Sagaing, at least 11 children died in an air strike and from indiscriminate fire in civilian areas, including a school, while another 15 children from the same school are still missing. Humanitarian actors are facing significant challenges posed by security risks in the northwest, particularly as there is a need to provide immediate assistance to children and communities there. In September,
UNICEF conducted a field assessment in some parts of the northwest to evaluate the operational environment and hopes that the recently established subnational inter-cluster coordination group will contribute to increasing coordinated efforts in response to the local needs.
The protracted humanitarian situation in Rakhine continues to deteriorate due to resurgence of conflict between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar Armed Forces, severely affecting the lives of thousands of children and their families.
People who have been displaced for a long time are confined in camps with limited access to health care, water and sanitation facilities, school or a livelihood, while increased population displacements have been reported from rural to urban areas. According to the latest OCHA figures, an estimated 13,400 people have been newly displaced across Rakhine as of 26 September. Humanitarian assistance is extremely challenged by movement restrictions and security measures, preventing access to the affected population. UNICEF and partners are monitoring the situation and have revised contingency plans and supplies, to respond in the event of further deterioration of the humanitarian situation.
In the southeast, conflict was also reported in Loikaw township in Kayah, resulting in civilian casualties and displacement.
At the end of September, UNICEF was able to reach the area and directly distribute much needed supplies, including WASH, child protection, health and nutrition. A total of 21,095 people (4,736 households) from 48 displacement sites in Loikaw and Demoso township were assisted, as a follow-up to the initial distribution held by UNICEF last June..."
Source/publisher:
UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-10-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
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419.07 KB
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Description:
"This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 26 September, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of October 2022.
HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES
Hostilities and soaring inflation continue to impose security and protection risks on affected and displaced people.
More than 1.3 million people remain displaced across the country, of whom more than 1 million were displaced since the 2021 military takeover.
Of particular concern is the escalation in fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine state and southern Chin, which has displaced more than 17,400 people since August and prompted movement restrictions that are delaying the delivery of critical assistance, particularly food and nutrition support.
More areas are being contaminated with landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs) due to active fighting in Rakhine and other areas, threatening the lives of people seeking safety or returning to their places of origin.
Inflation in the costs of basic commodities and the rapid devaluation of the Myanmar Kyat, continue to limit individual purchasing power and the ability of farmers to plant and grow food. As a result, there are continued concerns about food affordability and availability in the upcoming lean season.
Intensifying armed conflict and access restrictions are obstructing the transportation of medical supplies and mobile clinic activities, particularly in Rakhine and Kayah states. Malaria drugs are critically needed in light of increasing cases due to the monsoon season.
Humanitarian partners have continued to respond to new needs, reaching 3.1 million people with at least one form of assistance in the first half year of 2022. However, a shortfall in funding and access constraints have hindered partners from delivering the range of relief required, leading to significant unmet needs.
The 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) is only 20 per cent funded, leaving a gap of US$660 million (FTS). Partners are consequently being forced to make tough decisions about prioritization of their assistance. Worryingly, funding remains below 2021 levels despite a dramatic increase in needs in 2022.
SITUATION OVERVIEW
Ongoing hostilities, insecurity, economic stress and soaring inflation are significantly impacting the lives, movement and safety of conflict-affected people across the country. The conflict has led to the deaths of more than 2,316 people, including an estimated 188 children, and has caused injury to thousands of others. Between January and July 2022 alone, UNICEF recorded 206 casualties from landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). The actual number is likely to be higher due to underreporting as a result of access constraints, insecurity, and telecommunication challenges. More than 1 million people have been internally displaced since the 2021 military takeover, bringing the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) to more than 1.3 million across the country, as of 26 September 2022, according to latest UN figures.
Local and international humanitarian partners have been rapidly scaling up efforts to respond to pre-existing and emerging needs using creative approaches to overcome access constraints. During the first half of 2022, partners reached 3.1 million people with assistance at least once which represents half of the target for the year. However, access constraints and underfunding have meant this assistance is often intermittent and does not cover the full range of people’s needs. Immediate removal of access obstacles, particularly in conflict areas, and increased funding to the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan are urgently needed for humanitarian partners to respond to escalating needs, provide protection and alleviate suffering.
Escalating conflict in Rakhine and Southern Chin prompts severe access restrictions for humanitarian partners
Fighting between the AA-MAF has continued across Rakhine State and Paletwa Township in Chin State. Since August, more than 17,400 people have been newly displaced, bringing the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) from past and present AA-MAF fighting in these areas to more than 91,000, according to UN latest figures. The use of heavy weapons, airstrikes, landmines and mortar shelling has been seen in multiple townships, mainly in Maungdaw, Rathedaung and Buthidaung in northern Rakhine; and Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, and Minbya in central Rakhine. In a new dynamic, conflict between the AA and the MAF has also spread to southern Rakhine. Amid fears about inter-communal tension, arbitrary arrests, indiscriminate attacks, and destruction to private property, many people have left their villages.
One mother who fled her village in Mrauk-U township describes the situation. “I had experienced and witnessed military troops shooting [in random] directions during the armed conflicts. That is why, when our village was hit by heavy artillery in early morning, we fled”. When she arrived at Ywar Thit Kay displacement site with nothing, she received humanitarian assistance and was provided with a cooking set and other essential items but like others at this site, she still needs food and shelter. There are concerns about the safety of returns, with the de facto authorities reportedly pushing people displaced from AA-MAF conflict to go back to their places of origin before October of this year even as fighting continues.
Local and international humanitarian partners have been working to meet the basic needs of affected people however access to displaced people has become increasingly difficult. Security measures have tightened in many areas across the state; waterways and roads have become blocked in northern Rakhine; and the transportation of medical supplies and food has been restricted into Paletwa. These measures have limited people’s movement and are obstructing the delivery of humanitarian assistance. On 15 September, the de facto authorities prohibited the UN and INGOs from accessing six key townships - Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Myebon - until further notice. Access requests to the other 11 townships in Rakhine continue to be processed but food and nutrition activities continue to face problems. These service and supply interruptions are compounding the suffering of affected people who depend on humanitarian support for their survival. The movement restrictions have also prompted concerns about commercial shortages and surging prices for key commodities, including food, in some areas. The UN is advocating for restrictions to be eased for humanitarian activities and for expedited access through checkpoints for humanitarian actors delivering critical assistance. In addition, funding is urgently required to address needs and overcome contingency supply shortages. Since May, the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) has also been pushing to introduce a parallel registration and travel notification system for humanitarian actors in Rakhine and this has resulted in additional interference in the implementation of humanitarian activities..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-10-01
Date of entry/update:
2022-10-01
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
831.01 KB
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Description:
"Highlights
• Heavy fighting between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the Arakan Army (AA) has continued across Rakhine and southern Chin.
• As of 27 September, more than 17,400 people have been newly displaced since August, bringing the total number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from past and present AA-MAF fighting to more than 91,000, according to UN latest figures.
• Particularly, intense fighting was reported in Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Minbya, Buthidaung,
Rathedaung, Maungdaw townships in Rakhine and Paletwa township in southern Chin.
• Key roads and waterways remain blocked in northern Rakhine, restricting the movement of civilians and preventing humanitarian assistance from reaching people in need.
• Most of the humanitarian response in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Mrauk-U, Minbya,
Myebon townships has been suspended since 15 September after the de facto authorities imposed restrictions on the UN and INGOs delivering assistance to these key six townships until further notice, causing shortages in food, shelter and other relief items.
• Delays are being observed on the key transportation route between Yangon and Sittwe, the state capital, which will contribute to rising commodity prices and impact on the movement of relief items.
• Safe, unimpeded access and additional funding are urgently needed to address expected shortages in contingency supplies, especially for WASH, food, shelter, NFIs and health.
• Advocacy efforts are underway at the Rakhine state level to negotiate the lifting of the new restrictions on humanitarian activities..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Date of publication:
2022-09-30
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
371.34 KB
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Description:
"FOREWORD
During 2021 the people of Myanmar experienced an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, human rights, and humanitarian crisis. On 1 February the Myanmar Armed Forces detained elected political leaders, declared a state of emergency, and transferred all legislative, executive and judicial powers to themselves. Compounded by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the military takeover unleashed a crisis that has resulted in significant human suffering and a reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. On top of this, Myanmar experienced a severe outbreak of COVID-19 between June and August during which many people lost their lives and the economy was almost brought to a halt.
The events at the beginning of the year had significant implications on the work of the UN. As the member states contended with the legitimacy of the de facto authorities, overnight, UN’s operating environment became much more challenging, while the need for UN assistance increased exponentially. To respond to the new and escalating needs, the UN undertook an extensive reprogramming exercise. Funds and programmes were refocused on meeting the humanitarian needs of people, supporting the COVID-19 public health response, and mitigating the impact on the most vulnerable people and communities. To complement the UN’s humanitarian response, two new development programming frameworks were developed: the Health Response Contingency Plan (HRCP); and the Socio-economic Resilience Response Plan (SERRP). Despite the operational challenges, the UN disbursed a total of US$453 million in programmatic expenditures under the two development frameworks and its humanitarian response.
Under the HRCP, the UN contributed to the COVID-19 response, promoted continued access to essential health and nutrition services for vulnerable groups, and strengthened logistics and supply chains for immunizations, and reproductive health commodity security. Under the SERRP, the UN supported continued access for vulnerable populations to essential services in areas including social protection, food and nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene, education, shelter, and gender-based violence and violence against children. In addition, the UN worked to promote gender-responsive employment, private sector resilience, and strengthen households, communities and micro, small and medium enterprises capacities to weather future shocks. To promote and protect human rights, the rule of law, and the democratic space, the UN supported civil society actors to hold decision makers to account, facilitated access to legal aid, and worked with communities to increase awareness of fundamental and democratic rights.
At the time of writing, the situation in Myanmar remains uncertain and the political, socioeconomic, human rights and humanitarian continues. Going forward the UN is determined to strengthen our efforts to serve the people of Myanmar. We will use the lessons learnt in 2021 to ensure that our support becomes increasingly impactful as we keep delivering humanitarian assistance, support the most vulnerable, build resilience, and promote conditions for an inclusive and sustainable recovery when the situation allows. I am confident that through the strength of the people of Myanmar, the country will find its way back on a brighter path.
Ramanathan Balakrishnan UN Resident Coordinator a.i./ Humanitarian Coordinator a.i..."
Source/publisher:
UN Country Team in Myanmar via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-27
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-27
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
23.69 MB
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Description:
"In Numbers
11 million people are facing acute food insecurity
1.3 million people are displaced
4 million people are targeted for WFP assistance
2.6 million people reached in 2022 to date
Highlights
• In response to rising inflation and a surge in local and global food prices, WFP increased the value of cash-based transfers in August.
The change will cost WFP an additional US$ 450,000 per month.
• In August, WFP reached more than 1 million people with food and cash assistance, including 33,300 internally displaced people (IDPs) who received WFP assistance for the first time.
• In 2022, WFP has assisted 2.6 million conflict-affected people across Myanmar with emergency food, livelihoods and nutrition support.
Situation Update
• Humanitarian situation: UNOCHA estimates that 1.3 million people are internally displaced by conflict in Myanmar – 974,000 since February 2021 and 653,000 in 2022 alone. A further 330,000 are protracted IDPs, displaced before February 2021.
• Security has deteriorated across the country, particularly in Chin, Kayah and Rakhine states.
Increased clashes have led to new population displacements and further restrictions on humanitarian access.
• Economy: The value of the national currency, the Myanmar kyat (MMK), dropped rapidly in August, trading at around MMK3,500 to the US Dollar in the informal market, compared with MMK1800 in early 2022. The volatility is creating a surge in basic commodity prices.
• Food security: An estimated 11 million people – 20 percent of the total population – are facing acute food insecurity according to a household survey jointly conducted by WFP and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in March 2022. A new round of WFP assessments is underway to evaluate the impact of recent economic shocks, including rising food and fuel prices.
• Food prices appeared to have stabilised between June and July but continued to climb in August. Early indications from WFP’s price monitoring in August suggest the cost of a basic food basket was 54 percent higher compared to the same time last year.
• Banking regulations imposed on 1 September require WFP beneficiaries to present an official identity card when collecting their cash entitlements through financial service providers..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-21
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-21
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
394.91 KB
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Description:
"On 15 September, the de facto authorities in Rakhine State have temporarily suspended all humanitarian food and cash distributions, effective immediately.
World Food Programme (WFP) and other UN agencies have been on lockdown in Northern Rakhine State until further notice in response to the announcement of 15 September and by the Arakan Army on 14 September that it would conduct permanent and ad hoc checks on waterways and roads in Rakhine State that are used regularly by the Myanmar Military. WFP’s distribution of relief assistance to more than 237,000 people on a monthly basis is hence on hold.
Both announcements come as clashes in Northern Rakhine continue to escalate, including airstrikes and armed confrontations..."
Source/publisher:
European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations
Date of publication:
2022-09-19
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-19
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, 2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état
Language:
more
Description:
"HIGHLIGHTS:
The security situation in Myanmar continued to deteriorate during the reporting period, resulting in an uptick in displacement. As of 6 September 2022, there were an estimated 1,312,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) across the country, including 982,000 people who have been newly displaced within the country since 1 February 2021.
In the South-East, indiscriminate shelling, armed clashes and landmines continued to affect civilians. Security checks, curfews, roadblocks and arbitrary arrests have also negatively impacted people’s freedom of movement. Displaced families remain particularly vulnerable and exposed to numerous risks due to a shortage of appropriate shelter. A lack of food and essential medicines are concerns in Kayah and Kayin States and Bago (East) Region. Despite ongoing response efforts, access constraints have seriously hampered humanitarian interventions.
In Rakhine State (Central) and Chin State (South), rising tensions and armed clashes caused new displacement. Internally displaced families in Paletwa, Chin State, are in urgent need of assistance although efforts are ongoing to ascertain displacement in all areas affected by conflict. Increased arrests and checkpoints on roads and waterways have been reported and are impacting communities’ security and freedom of movement. Tighter restrictions on the transportation of goods and freedom of movement have also been noted in villages in Maungdaw, Rakhine State (North), which face a shortage of food, medicines and other essential items.
In the North-West, the situation is increasingly volatile. Active armed clashes and security operations in various townships in Sagaing and Magway Regions continue to trigger displacement with most displaced communities living in informal displacement sites. Increased checkpoints have also been reported. With the price of fuel and other commodities rising, many are at risk of becoming more isolated due to access challenges.
In Kachin and Shan (North), tensions were high in many townships due to armed clashes. In urban areas such as Hpakant and Myitkyina, explosive devices featured heavily in armed conflict incidents. Drug trade, robberies, thefts and burglaries are also reportedly on the rise in urban areas..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via ReliefWeb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-16
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-16
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
8.42 MB
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Description:
"The volatile situation in Myanmar following the 01 February 2021 coup has increased armed conflict and subsequent population displacement within and across borders, including in Thailand.
As of 22 August 2022, the Royal Thai Government (RTG) reports that there are no refugees remaining on the Thai side of the border. Since February 2021, the RTG estimates that some 22,000 Myanmar refugees have sought temporary safety in Thailand.
Refugees are sheltered in temporary safety areas (TSA), which are placed under the general jurisdiction of the Royal Thai Army by the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) established by the RTG in March 2021
SITUATION OVERVIEW ON THE THAI MYANMAR BORDER – AUGUST 2022
In Kayah State, armed clashes continued around Demoso and Loikaw since the Military scaled up its troops' deployment in early August in an attempt to regain control of these areas. In Kayin State, clashes in Kawkareik Township have been reported between the Tatmadaw and Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA). Throughout August, daily battles reportedly took place between the Tatmadaw and the KNLA-led opposition forces – in the Karen National Union (KNU)-controlled areas of Dooplaya District (i.e., Brigade 6 controlled area), which is opposite Mae Sot, Phop Phra, and Umphang districts of Tak. The escalation of conflict around Myawaddy Township in late July and early August triggered displacement across the border into Thailand. On 29 July, the RTG reported new arrivals into Thailand caused by the resurgence of fighting in Myawaddy Town. The authorities recorded 244 individuals who sought safety in Thailand and were sheltered in one Temporary Safety Area (TSA) in Mor Ker Thai Temple, Valley sub-district, Pob Pra district, Tak province. All refugees reportedly returned to Myanmar once fighting subsided, and the TSA was officially closed on 13 August. In the Tanintharyi region, fighting intensified between the People Defense Force (PDF) and the Military in August, especially around Dawei Township.
As of 29 August, the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) in Myanmar displaced since 1 February is 974,400, of whom 283,800 are in the southeast provinces – Kayah, Shan, Kayin, Mon States, and Tanintharyi and Bago regions. Most of the newly displaced were in Kayin State, where 1,100 people sought safety in the jungle in Thandaungyyi Township due to airstrikes. The number of IDPs continued to increase in Tanintharyi Region due to general insecurity. Local media reported that 700 people were displaced to the jungle nearby. In Kayah State, about 210 IDPs in Nyaung Shwe Township were able to return to Loikaw..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-13
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Education statistics and ranking - Burma/Myanmar, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
402.96 KB
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Description:
"Highlights
Rising tensions between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine and southern Chin since June have led to frequent armed clashes, including the use of heavy weapons and airstrikes. The renewed conflict follows a temporary ceasefire between the AA-MAF, which had been in place since November 2020.
Most of the fighting has been reported in Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Buthidaung, and Mrauk-U townships in Rakhine State and in Paletwa township in Chin State.
As of 5 September, almost 9,600 people have consequently been displaced, bringing the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) from past and present AA-MAF fighting across Rakhine and Paletwa township in Chin State to nearly 84,000, according to UN latest figures.
Key roads and waterways have been blocked, restricting the movement of civilians and preventing humanitarian assistance from reaching people in need.
Local and international partners have been providing emergency assistance to affected people where access is permitted but many areas remain unreachable. Humanitarians need unimpeded access to affected areas and the removal of bureaucratic obstructions to allow for the delivery of timely, life-saving support to people in need.
Funding is urgently needed to replenish depleted supplies and address expected shortages, especially in food assistance, water and sanitation services, shelter and non-food items (NFIs) and health services for IDPs and other affected communities. Pre-positioning of stocks is critical given the escalation of clashes and movement restrictions on humanitarian actors..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.88 MB
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Description:
"Highlights:
As of 29 August, the number of displaced people has reached 1.3 million nationally, including displacement since February 2021 and protracted displacement prior to the military takeover.
Some schools reopened across the country, as the school year began in June, but many more remain closed, particularly in rural areas. Only 33 per cent opened in Kachin, Kayah, and Chin states while, in Sagaing region, around half the schools are closed because of the conflict. Levels of violence and instability have worsened, causing large-scale internal displacement and disrupting children’s opportunities to learn safely.
The Mine Action Area of Responsibility (AoR) reported 185 incidents of landmines and explosive ordnance from January to June 2022 of which 33 percent of the casualties are children. UNICEF continues to work towards providing assistance to the victims and increasing explosive risk education for children and their parents.
UNICEF and its partners have seen a marked improvement in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) indicator. 40,834 people were assisted during the period, a 53 per cent increase compared to the previous month, due to the implementing a variety of methods including virtual access and hotlines, capacity building and communities empowering, allowing expanded access in hard to reach areas.
A total of 3,568 children aged 9 to 18 months were vaccinated against measles in Rakhine, Kachin and Shan during the reporting period.
Situation in Numbers
5,000,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance (HRP 2022)
14,400,000 people in need (HRP 2022)
974,400 Internally displaced people after 1 February 2021 (UNHCR)
45,500 People displaced to neighbouring countries since 1 February 2021
330,400 people living in protracted displacement before February 2021 (UNHCR)
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, need assistance. From January to August 2022, UNICEF has received generous contributions from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), the European Commission/ECHO, the German Federal Foreign Office, Global Thematic Humanitarian Funds, Denmark, Japan, Norway, the Korean Committee for UNICEF and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA). UNICEF Myanmar has so far received US$31.93 million; an increase of US$0.8 million from the previous reporting period. This fund has already contributed to delivering much-needed assistance through UNICEF programmes for Nutrition, Health, HIV/AIDS, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Education, Child Protection, Gender-Based Violence in Emergencies (GBViE), Protection of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), Social Protection, Accountability Affected Population (AAP) and Cluster coordination. The Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal had a funding gap of 79 per cent by the end of August. This affects humanitarian assistance and services to the targeted populations, especially children in need. Continued support from donors means that UNICEF can scale up responses and accelerate service deliveries to the population in dire need. 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
Overall, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate across the country, with an escalation in armed conflict in the northwest and southeast regions and in Kachin state, resulting in increased displacement. As of 29 August 2022, an estimated 974,4001 people had been internally displaced since February 2021, which has resulted in more than 1.3 million internally displaced people living in camps, protracted settings and informal displacement sites across the country.
The northwest region remains the most affected by the crisis with more than 665,700 displaced people; these are mainly in Sagaing (528,300), Magway (98,100), and Chin (39,300). An estimated 44,300 people crossed the border to the Indian states of Mizoram and Manipur. More than 22,544 civilian properties including houses, churches and monasteries have been destroyed or burnt in the northwest region. Access to the area for aid workers has not improved, as the de facto authorities maintain tight control on issuing travel authorizations. The United Nations continues to engage with the authorities to try to gain better access to more townships in the northwest region. The Humanitarian Country Team has approved an Inter Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) for the northwest, which will address strategic operational issues.
The number of displaced people in Kachin state increased from 1,600 as of 25 July to 10,000 by the end of August. This is in addition to the 91,500 displaced people living in protracted situations since before 2021. During the first week of August, more than 2,300 people (53 per cent women) were displaced in Hpakant township, Kachin State due to intensified clashes. UNICEF, in partnership with Karuna Mission Social Solidarity (KMSS), provided WASH supplies to 111 households in the displacement sites.
In Rakhine, the humanitarian situation remains unpredictable due to the heightened tension and clashes between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar Armed Forces. Access to locations with high humanitarian needs, such as Maungdaw north, remains severely constrained, impacting the ability of humanitarian actors to provide assistance to the population in need. Across the state, 219,000 people remain in a situation of protracted displacement.
In northern Shan state, a total of 656 people were displaced in Nawnghkio township due to armed clashes during 5 August and 7 August, but they returned to their homes on 12 August. Humanitarian agencies are finding it harder to access camps for displaced people in southern Shan and Kayah due to increased restrictions on movement of humanitarian assistance. The security situation in Kayah state is deteriorating as clashes continue, particularly in Hpruso and Demoso townships. In the southeast, armed conflicts have escalated across the region, specifically in Bago East where the number of displaced people has risen sharply to 33,800 by the end of August..."
Source/publisher:
UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
392.66 KB
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Description:
"Changes in Context
The people of Myanmar continue to face an unprecedented political, human rights, and humanitarian crisis that is posing grave protection risks for civilians, limiting access to vital services including health and education, and driving deep food insecurity. Humanitarian needs have worsened across the country as conflict continues to rage, causing unprecedented levels of displacement, destruction of property, and land mine contamination especially in the country’s northwest and southeast and driving grave protection risks for civilians. 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 fragile living conditions.
The arrival of the monsoon in the second quarter of the year has been a miserable time for the hundreds of thousands of displaced people living in informal sites and in the jungle or forest without proper shelter.
While there have been modest access openings, these are very localized, and the overall access environment remains heavily constrained with a strong reliance on and risk transfer to low-profile local responders.
Humanitarian operating space is under increasing threat from bureaucratic blockages imposed by the de facto authorities around registration, travel, banking, and visas. While the economy has shown a glimmer of improvement in the past few months, inflation is undermining this modest recovery at the household level with fuel and food becoming increasingly unaffordable and adding to financial stress in vulnerable households.
Expansion of conflict
In the first half of the year, fighting has further escalated across multiple states and regions in Myanmar, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast, with no signs of abating. According to the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, since the military takeover, nearly 2,000 civilians have been killed during hostilities and other fatal incidents, including as a result of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs).1 Nearly 20,000 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries, and schools, are estimated to have been destroyed during hostilities, although figures are difficult to verify.
The Northwest has seen the greatest intensification of conflict between the MAF and PDFs and the biggest surge in displacement since the original HRP was published. Now, more than half of all new IDPs are in the Northwest, with the heaviest concentration in Sagaing. There have been various waves of fighting in different states across the Southeast as the MAF has attempted to take control of EAO-controlled areas.
Across the Southeast, fighting intensified in January and February as the MAF intensified campaigns in Kayin and Kayah states. In Kayin state, combined MAF/Border Guard Forces and combined KNU/ PDF forces clashed frequently and intensely. Heavy artillery shelling and airstrikes in these areas caused mass displacement, including across the border into Thailand. During the same period fighting escalated substantially across nearly all of Kayah state between the MAF and the aligned Karenni resistance groups.
Loikaw town, in particular, experienced a sustained campaign of aerial bombardment that caused 80 per cent of the town to be displaced to other parts of Kayah state and southern Shan. Fighting also intensified throughout other parts of the Southeast, particularly during the second quarter, with heavy clashes and sudden spikes in displacement in Mon, Tanintharyi and eastern Bago between the MAF and aligned militia groups and the KNU and PDFs.
In Rakhine, a ceasefire between the MAF and Arakan Army (AA), continued to hold at mid-year but tensions are building with sporadic confrontations presenting the very real risk that the conflict could resume in the second half of the year. Intermittent clashes, numerous mine incidents, arrests, and counter-arrests on both sides have been reported with some smallscale displacement. Contingency planning has been undertaken in case the situation worsens..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-02
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-02
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
3.57 MB (Original version) - 43 pages
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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. The next humanitarian update will be issued at the end of September 2022
HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES
• Civilians continue to bear the brunt of the armed conflict while households are grappling with financial stress as a result of soaring inflation.
• Almost 1.3 million people are currently displaced across the country. This includes more than 974,000 people displaced by the conflict and insecurity since the military takeover last year.
• Tensions are rising in Rakhine state and southern Chin between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and the Arakan Army (AA) with concerns for the impact of a resumption in fullscale fighting on civilians. Funding is urgently needed to procure depleted supplies for both the ongoing response and to meet new needs both for displaced people and affected communities.
• Rising food prices and constrained agricultural production nationwide are contributing to deep food insecurity as items become more unaffordable for much of Myanmar’s population. Fertilizer and other farm inputs are now prohibitively expensive, lowering productivity at the same time that fuel challenges and conflict are making transportation of produce more difficult. Concerns remain regarding food availability during the upcoming lean season as conditions are expected to worsen.
• Low availability of some medical products is being reported due to import issues.
• Despite the ongoing challenges, humanitarian partners have continued to rapidly scale-up in response to new needs, reaching a total of 3.1 million people with at least one form of assistance in the first half year of 2022.
• However, due to a shortfall in funding and access constraints, partners are not able to deliver the depth of relief required and there are significant unmet needs.
• The 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) is only 17 per cent funded, leaving a gap of US$688 million (FTS) that is forcing partners to make tough decisions about prioritization of assistance. Worryingly, funding remains below 2021 levels despite a dramatic increase in needs in 2022..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-09-02
Date of entry/update:
2022-09-02
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
738.63 KB
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Description:
"To understand the effects of political instability, COVID-19, and other shocks on Myanmar’s agricultural input sector, a phone survey of 252 input retailers throughout the country was conducted in July 2022.
Key findings
Input prices during the 2022 monsoon growing season were substantially higher than a year prior, especially for urea (91 percent higher) and for compound fertilizers (75 percent higher).
Despite large disruptions in transportation and currency exchange, inputs were generally available. However, because of rising prices, input sales dropped sharply relative to 2021. Input retailers have attributed their drop in sales to rising transportation charges, political instability, changing demands, and, alarmingly, a decline in acreages planted by farmers.
The decline in fertilizer sales appears to be especially severe in the Delta region, which accounts for about half of Myanmar’s monsoon paddy production. In contrast, aggregate fertilizer sales quantities increased slightly in the Hills region due to high maize prices and export demand.
Looking forward
As a result of price increases and sales declines for inorganic fertilizer, perhaps most severe in the major rice growing regions, Myanmar may see declines in paddy production in the 2022 monsoon season, a large concern given rice’s importance in diets nationwide and for rural incomes.
One positive development has been the return of in-person bank transfers as a method of payment, but otherwise there is little sign of relief in the input retail sector as problems with high transport costs and credit availability are likely to continue. Providing farmers with advice on nutrient management practices and fertilizer use efficiency is highly recommended to help maintain profitable yields under the constraints of high fertilizer costs..."
Source/publisher:
International Food Policy Research Institute (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-08-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-08-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
more
Description:
"Thousands of people have been forced to flee Myanmar’s Kayah State as clashes escalate, with many relying on the goodwill of others to meet basic needs.
A father who wishes he could have warned his son about the risk of landmines near their village.
A mother who held her newborn close as she sought shelter and safety.
Parents who left their children at a church for safety while they risked their lives to return to their village to support the family.
These are some of the stories that we heard while meeting with displaced communities in Loikaw, following intense fighting in Demoso, Hpruso, Pekon and other parts of Kayah and Shan states in Myanmar.
"I thought the fighting would only last for one or two days," said Ma Kyi Kyi*, a mother of three children who has been moving from one displacement site to another in search of safety.
"When the fighting first broke out, we ran to a village near Hsi Hseng Township in southern Shan State," she said. It was her first-time leaving home.
We stayed there for one month with no electricity or water. Life is hard over there.
People displaced by violence often have to seek shelter in remote areas without safe and sustainable access to healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities. The lack of healthcare facilities poses a particular risk during the flu season and for communities without access to clean water, which can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases.
"We decided to come back to Loikaw in Kayah State as it is closer to our village. Now, I have been here for more than a year," Ma Kyi Kyi said.
I don't even know when I can go home, and I don't know if there is anything left to call home.
Increased clashes since the beginning of the year have seen thousands flee Kayah State to seek shelter not just in towns like Loikaw but also across southern Shan State. Monasteries, churches or the homes of extended family have served as places of shelter in Shan townships like Taunggyi, Hsi Hseng, Pinlaung, Nyaung Shwe, Kalaw, Pindaya, Lawksawk and Laihka.
With the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS), the ICRC in Myanmar has sought to help communities affected by violence in Kayah and southern Shan since January this year. From January to July, more than 4300 families across southern Shan received urgent food rations, including rice, peas, oil and salt. In Kayah State, since May, we've helped more than 1000 families with financial support to cover their basic needs..."
Source/publisher:
International Committee of the Red Cross (Geneva)
Date of publication:
2022-08-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-08-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
more
Description:
"Highlights: The cost of the basic food basket (rice, edible oil, chickpeas, salt) remained stable but remains high (+34%) compared to the same time last year.
The average prices for locally-available low-mid quality rice remained stable with slight changes between June and mid-July. However, starting from late July rice price increases have been reported in various parts of the country, which will be further validated as part of the August market price update.
Edible oil prices remained stable or slightly decreased from previous month due to increased palm oil export availability from Indonesia as the world's leading exporter.
Onion prices also surged this month due to low domestic stocks and increase in foreign demand. In some regions, prices are 3-4 times higher than the same time last year.
The price of eggs overall stabilized, but with some variability across markets.
In Chin and northern Rakhine, increases were associated with high transportation costs and high costs of chicken feed.
Chickpea prices high in Mon State due to decline in retail stocks and high transportation costs
Fuel price decreased by -21% on average during July. However, prices remain significantly higher than one year ago, and reports of fuel shortages in early to mid-August have led to renewed price increases outside the monitoring period..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome)
Date of publication:
2022-07-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-08-30
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.6 MB
more
Description:
"Sometimes, in our work, community members stop just to talk with our colleagues. They share stories, feelings or experiences – seeking distraction or relief from stress.
"I had heard about the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) but had never met anyone working with the organization before," a teacher in Mindat recently told a member of the ICRC team visiting the area as part of our humanitarian response. "When I did meet them, I felt quite sad because I realized that I am also one of those who have been internally displaced," he said.
In June this year, the ICRC returned to Mindat in Chin State to provide support to communities displaced by conflict. This was our fifth trip to the area since clashes escalated more than a year ago. We were able to help around 900 people by supplying basic cooking materials such as rice, oil, salt and peas as well as providing hygiene supplies and water storage buckets.
"We really appreciate receiving these items in this [rainy] season, as they can be hard for us to buy," that same teacher told our colleague.
A man caring for his 90-year-old father talked to the team about the challenges many in the community are facing. "We cannot take sides in this situation; instead, we are fearful of everyone, which makes neutrality essential for us," he said.
"If we don't send our kids to school, they'll grow too old and be unable to complete their education... but we are also reluctant to enroll our kids in school because we never know when the fighting may start again." Needing to stay and care for his father, the man is unable to go elsewhere in search of work or safety.
In Mindat, many doors and windows remain closed. Some families spend the day working on upland farms and return home in the evening. Questions about how families are planning to access food during the rainy season are often met with silence.
The monsoon season pummels the region with strong rains. These rains can cause landslides, which can damage roads and make travel unsafe. In these months, access to Mindat – high up in the hilly regions of southern Chin – can be a challenge for civilians, businesses and humanitarians alike.
Despite the challenges and though the main market remains closed, more groceries and eateries have emerged compared to our last visit to Mindat in March.
"I am pleased that the team was able to reach Mindat just as the rainy season began, both for the community and for the ICRC," said Kyaw Myint Tun, who led the ICRC response in Mindat.
"Because of our previous experiences we all know how tough it is for the local people and international relief providers to get to hilly Chin State, like Mindat."
People in Chin State – from Mindat and beyond – still require urgent humanitarian assistance. Clashes are ongoing and civilians continue to be caught in the crossfire. We plan to return to help meet those humanitarian needs soon..."
Source/publisher:
International Committee of the Red Cross (Geneva)
Date of publication:
2022-08-12
Date of entry/update:
2022-08-12
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
more
Description:
"CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Adequate nutrition during infancy and early childhood is fundamental to the normal growth and development of each child to its full potential.
Malnutrition is responsible for about half (45%) of all under five deaths each year. In Myanmar, under five mortality is 45/1,000 livebirths which is the highest national rate in the region.
Globally, 149 million under five children were malnourished in 2019. In Myanmar, 1.3 million under five children are stunted and at risk of not growing or developing to their full potential and more than 300,000 under-five children are wasted. Stunting has a major negative impact on under five mortality, learning, production and sports. It contributes to almost 15% of child deaths each year. A 10% increase in the prevalence of stunting results in the proportion of children reaching the final grade in school falling by 8%. Adults affected by malnutrition in infancy and childhood earn on average 20% less than adults not affected by malnutrition. Low performance in sports is well visible.
In Myanmar, children who are not breastfed are at significantly increased risk of stunting. Annual inadequate breastfeeding in Myanmar results in more than 4,000 child deaths and more than 1 million cases of diarrhoea and pneumonia. In addition, families have to use more than 182 million US$ to purchase infant formula and government have to use more than 2 million US$ for treatment of their illness.
The best and most cost-effective interventions to reduce under-five mortality and stunting is Infant and Young Child Feeding. Breastfeeding is the single most effective intervention to save children’s lives; 823 000 child deaths could be prevented each year through scaling up recommended breastfeeding practices globally. About half of all diarrhoea episodes and a third of respiratory infections (major killers resulting in the loss of 2 million young lives each year) could be avoided through breastfeeding. Appropriate complementary feeding could prevent another 6% of deaths.
In emergencies, infants and young children are more vulnerable, the younger the age, the higher the risk of mortality and malnutrition. If poor IYCF practices, weak policy and legislation and low awareness and knowledge are present in pre-emergency, it is sure to become worse in emergency situation. The following factors lead children to have poorer IYCF practices and malnutrition resulting in increasing morbidity and mortality.
Myths and misconceptions
Exhaustion
Severe stress and trauma
Lack of resources and supports
Lack of privacy
BMS donations and blanket distributions
Lack of safe water and poor hygiene, sanitation
Lack of access to complementary food..."
Source/publisher:
Save the Children and UN Children's Fund via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-08-07
Date of entry/update:
2022-08-07
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Children, Children's rights: reports of violations in Burma against more than one ethnic group
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
6.01 MB (112 pages) - Original version
more
Description:
"This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 31 July, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. The next humanitarian update will be issued in August 2022.
HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES
• More than 1.2 million people are currently displaced across the country. This includes nearly 866,400 people displaced by the conflict and insecurity since the military takeover last year.
• Inflation in commodity prices, including for food, fuel, shelter materials and NFIs, remains a major concern to partners in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable. Interim measures are being applied to mitigate against its impact on humanitarian programming where possible, but communities are struggling in the face of cost pressures.
• Humanitarians are stepping up efforts to expand support to affected people in northwest Myanmar which hosts the majority of the country’s new IDPs (583,100 as of 25 July 2022).
• Contingency planning is underway as tensions escalate in Rakhine.
• The unstable security situation and cyclical displacement across the Southeast and Northwest are exacerbating mental health issues among children and their caregivers, generating increased need for child protection responses in these areas.
• In northern Shan, forced recruitment, extortion and landmines continue to put IDPs and host communities at risk.
• In Rakhine, there remain significant shelter gaps for displaced people. There are also significant deficits in water availability in the AA-MAF sites in Rakhine and Chin.
• In the Southeast, shelter and other humanitarian support is urgently needed for newly displaced people including 5,400 new IDPs in Kyaukkyi township in eastern Bago.
• The 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) is only 13 per cent funded prompting the need for prioritization in the second half of the year.
KEY FIGURES
1.2M People internally displaced across Myanmar
866K People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021
346K People internally displaced due to conflict prior to February 2021, mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan
21K 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
The people of Myanmar continue to bear the brunt of ongoing hostilities and a crippling economic situation that has been compounded by increasing inflation since May. Both crises have entrenched people’s pre-existing vulnerabilities and generated new needs. There are currently, more than 1.2 million internally displaced people (IDPs) in camps and informal displacement sites across the country. Of those who are displaced, 866,4002 fled their homes since the 2021 military takeover. A further 346,600 people are in protracted displacement as a result of conflict prior to 2021, the majority of whom are in Rakhine State. Many of the new IDPs have been displaced multiple times. Many have been sheltering for months in the jungle, where it is difficult to reach them with humanitarian assistance, particularly during the rainy season.
During the past year, limited numbers of IDPs have managed to return to their places of origin, but this is sometimes short-lived and most people have been unable to return due to insecurity and ongoing hostilities in their places of origin, the destruction of their homes, or lack of livelihood opportunities. More than 21,000 civilian properties, including homes, churches, monasteries, and schools, have reportedly been destroyed since the military takeover.
Humanitarian partners are trying to reach 6.2 million people with life-saving assistance this year, including IDPs in conflict areas, wherever access is possible. Despite the ongoing access challenges and shortfalls in funding, humanitarian partners have been providing affected people with critical life-saving assistance, including emergency shelter and NFIs, food and livelihood assistance, health and nutrition, education, as well as protection services, including child protection, gender-based violence, legal aid and mine action, to alleviate their suffering and strengthen their resilience. Mid-year results are being finalized now and are expected to show at least 3 million people or almost half the 2022 target have been reached with humanitarian assistance since the beginning of the year. The Inter-Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) is working to identify ways of expanding reach into under-served, high displacement areas, particularly in the Northwest where the response has been challenging. On 29 July, the HCT endorsed a proposal to proceed with the establishment of a sub-national ICCG for the Northwest to improve coordination and information sharing, as well as access advocacy.
Myanmar remains one of only four countries in the world classified by ACAPS as having “extreme” access constraints, alongside Eritrea, Ukraine and Yemen.3 A new analysis of the physical, conflict and stakeholder constraints that are affecting accessibility in different parts of the country has been produced by the Humanitarian Access Working Group.
The analysis indicates that humanitarian access is considered ‘difficult’ or ‘very difficult’ to at least 1.4 million people of the 6.2 million targeted for assistance this year. High-level efforts continue to advocate for access to these areas and donors are encouraged to support efforts by partners in underserved locations where needs are severe, on the understanding that this work may take longer, require more human resources and deliver results on a smaller scale because of the access constraints.
Several inter-agency needs monitoring missions have taken place in the first half of the year. In late June, several UN agencies visited one relocation site, one temporary displacement site and three protracted IDP camps in Kyaukme,
Manton and Namtu townships in northern Shan to assess the overall humanitarian situation of the IDPs and identify need and gaps in responses. Based on the findings of this mission, IDPs are in need of more vocational training activities to support their livelihoods. In Namtu township, IDPs are in need of desludging services and water purifying chemicals. Displaced children have access to public education in these two towns, and health services are also provided, but there is a need to scale-up. With the ongoing increase of commodity prices, the running costs for camps have become challenging within existing allocations, especially in protracted IDP camps and relocation sites in Manton and Namtu townships. The UN, in collaboration with its partners, including local organization, is currently arranging responses to the identified needs. The joint distribution mission to southern Shan that was scheduled for early July in response to a prior needs monitoring mission, remains pending due to travel authorization issues. Advocacy is underway to resolve this delay.
It is critical that humanitarian partners have unconditional, unimpeded and safe access to all affected people wherever they are in Myanmar. Funding is also critically needed, especially in light of the increasing inflation since May 2022, in order to save more lives, protect people and alleviate their suffering. As of 27 July, the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan is only 13 per cent funded, leaving a gap of $719 million (FTS) and clusters will be working to make difficult prioritization decisions for the second half of the year..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-31
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Individual Documents
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Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
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"28 July 2022 – Families in Myanmar have lost on average more than half of their income since the political crisis and escalation of conflict in February 2021, according to Save the Children, with soaring poverty rates threatening to reverse 17 years of economic progress.
The economic impact of the political crisis, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, has left families struggling to feed themselves and their children, the child rights organisation said. Some 80% of families said food was their primary concern, with adults in one in five households cutting back on meals in order to feed their children. A third of households are borrowing food or relying on help from others to feed their families.
Kin Thida*, 39, lives with her husband and three children in Yangon, Myanmar. She and her husband used to work as masons on a construction site and all three of their children went to school. But since February 2021 and the ensuing economic turmoil, the couple are now both without jobs.
“In the past, I could buy some pieces of meat and some vegetables for two meals with around 3000 kyat (around US$1.5), but for now, it’s only enough for one meal, sometimes not even that,” Kin Thida said.
Kin Thida’s 17-year-old daughter, Sabal*, had to drop out of school to work in a garment factory to support her family – before she also lost her job due to factory closures.
“I need to find another job, but for that I need a national registration card, and to get that I need to travel to my parents’ hometown to apply. I can’t afford the transport to get there,” Sabal said. “I only want to go back to school – that's the only place I was happy. I was hoping to be a nurse after school.”
The political crisis in Myanmar started when the country was already vulnerable. The economic crisis drove an increase in the share of households experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity between August and October 2020.
Since February last year the country has suffered further economic decline, with mass job losses, business closures and weakening of the Myanmar currency (kyat), which has affected households across the country.
Even middle-income households that were benefiting from the country’s economic growth since 2011 are now being pushed below the poverty line, Save the Children said. Families are reporting an average price increase of between 30% and 70% for basic foods.
Earlier this year, the child rights organisation warned that at least 150,000 children had been forced to flee their homes due to violence, and last month reports showed that the number of children out of school had doubled over the past two years.
Save the Children called on the international community to do everything it can to prevent the country plummeting into mass poverty and hunger, including stepping up humanitarian funding.
Shaheen Chughtai, Regional Advocacy Director for Save the Children in Asia, said:
“More than a year on from the coup, millions of children do not have enough to eat and families are having to beg or borrow to survive. These new figures are especially sobering at a time where humanitarian response is severely underfunded. At a time when children in Myanmar need us most, they are being let down by the international community.
"Deprivation and hunger on this scale is a worrying step backwards for a country that was already struggling to pull itself out of poverty after decades of political turmoil. The speed at which poverty levels are regressing after 17 years of progress – and the impact this is having on children and their families - is an absolute tragedy, and the world must ensure children in Myanmar are not forgotten.”
Save the Children has been working in Myanmar since 1995, providing life-saving healthcare, food, education and child protection programmes through more than 50 partners and 900 staff across the country..."
Source/publisher:
Save the Children (London)
Date of publication:
2022-07-28
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-28
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
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"Executive Summary
Since the beginning of 2022, Myanmar’s economy has faced a series of external and domestic shocks.
The war in Ukraine has caused steep increases in global prices of fuel and fertilizer, which have passed through
to a broader range of goods and services. This has led to a sharp rise in input costs across all industries, and
fueled inflation which in turn further strained real household incomes. Domestic electricity shortages have also
impacted households and businesses across the country. The security environment has deteriorated further in
northern and southern regions, while Chin and the Dry Zone remain embroiled in severe conflict. This has
disrupted economic activity, with one fifth of all firms (and two fifths of all agricultural firms) surveyed by the
World Bank in May 2022 indicating that conflict was the most important challenge to their operations.
Notwithstanding these shocks, some parts of the economy have stabilized and even recovered
somewhat since late 2021, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of Myanmar’s businesses.
Firms have reported operating at higher capacity in 2022 than in 2021, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
The manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index reached neutral levels in the first half of 2022, after a long
period of contraction. Garment manufacturers – mainly reliant on external demand –seem to have recovered
relatively strongly, as demonstrated by the ongoing expansion in manufactured exports since mid-2021.
Construction activity has also picked up as work on several projects has restarted after a long pause last year.
This improvement in economic activity has been supported by a rise in mobility, with workplace mobility
returning to pre-pandemic levels in June after substantial dips in 2021. The fourth wave of COVID-19
transmissions was much less severe than expected in January, with the number of recorded cases (and the
severity of those cases) significantly lower than during the third wave in mid-2021.
But activity in other industries and services remains weak, as declining real household incomes have
weighed on domestic demand. Despite the recovery in mobility at retail and transport venues, World Bank
household survey results from April 2022 suggest that real consumption – particularly of discretionary nonfood items – had declined from a year earlier. Household survey results indicate that job losses, reduced work
hours and lower wages and incomes from household farms and businesses have all contributed to a reduction
in nominal household incomes. Real household incomes were further eroded by sharply rising inflation, with
the latest available data indicating that CPI inflation accelerated to 17.3 percent (yoy) in March, driven by sharp
increases in the prices of food and fuel. The weakness in private consumption was corroborated by the May
2022 firm survey results, which indicated that retail and wholesale firms’ sales had fallen by more than a quarter
from a year earlier.
Rising costs have affected the operations of all businesses, squeezing profit margins. Increases in global
oil prices – exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict – have driven pronounced increases in domestic fuel prices and
transport costs, as well as in the cost of running diesel generators to compensate for recurring electricity outages.
Over the first half of 2022, the local price of fuel rose by around 70 percent. Kyat depreciation, supply chain
disruptions and the spillover effects of higher transport prices have resulted in price increases for a broader
range of imported inputs, squeezing already thin profit margins. Increases in the price of fertilizer and other
agricultural inputs have prompted a reduction in their use, with negative implications for future crop yields.
Despite a narrowed current account deficit, external balance of payment pressures have become acute.
The current account deficit narrowed in the year ended September 2021, due to a narrower goods trade deficit
(with imports contracting by more than exports in FY2021), sharply lower travel and other services receipts,
and a 30 percent decline in recorded overseas remittances. But there were more pronounced pressures on the
financial account, with foreign direct investment down by about two thirds from the previous year, substantial
outflows of foreign currency deposits, and sharp declines in other net financing flows through the year.
Together these resulted in a recorded reduction in foreign exchange reserves of close to US$ 1 billion in the
September quarter 2021. To the extent that these trends have continued, it is plausible that foreign exchange
reserves have fallen to insufficient levels as at mid-2022 (with some reserves also inaccessible due to foreign
sanctions). More recent data indicates that the US dollar value of goods imports has increased by more than
goods exports in the first half of 2022, driven largely by rising imports of intermediate inputs, while FDI
commitments remained very weak. This implies that neither net trade flows nor FDI flows have provided
additional support to the balance of payments this year.
External pressures have been compounded by reversals of previous policy reforms. Undoing previous
gains in macro-economic management, the authorities abandoned the managed float exchange rate regime,
fixing the official reference exchange rate at an overvalued level not reflective of market supply and demand.
In a bid to stem foreign exchange pressures the authorities also imposed foreign exchange restrictions. This has
led to shortages of US dollars and a growing spread between official and parallel market rates (which had
reached around 20 percent as at mid-July). In combination with onerous import license requirements, these
foreign exchange restrictions have led to particularly significant impacts on the domestic supply of fuel, resulting
in shortages and the emergence of a parallel fuel market to circumvent the authorities’ efforts to impose price
controls. Meanwhile, the imposition of kyat conversion and surrender requirements on foreign exchange
earnings (and deposits) has effectively acted as a tax on exporters, with signs that the external price
competitiveness of agricultural exports has been adversely affected since these measures were imposed in April.
A recent central bank direction requiring banks to facilitate the temporary suspension of foreign loan
repayments is intended to ease external liquidity pressures, but if implemented will likely reduce the
creditworthiness and market access of Myanmar’s corporate and financial sectors.
While cash liquidity constraints appear to be easing, weak financial sector balance sheets are
constraining credit growth. Discussions with industry representatives indicate that non-performing loan and
delinquency rates are high, having continued to rise since the start of the pandemic in 2020, with banks
providing relief and rescheduling repayments on a customer-by-customer basis. Ongoing declines in asset
quality have in turn prompted a cautious approach to new lending. While withdrawal limits remain in place, it
has become easier to obtain kyat from ATMs and bank branches, in part due to a recovery in bank deposits.
The fiscal position has deteriorated, accompanied by shift of public spending away from critical public
services. Tax collection declined from 6.5 percent of GDP in FY2020 to 4.9 percent of GDP in FY2021.
Losses in large energy State Economic Enterprises (SEEs) have also contributed to an overall decline in revenue
(in nominal kyat terms) of almost 30 percent. The fiscal deficit rose to around 9 percent of GDP in FY2021,
with spending also falling – due to weak budget execution – but by less than the decline in revenue. Given
reductions in other financing sources, there has been a return to reliance on central bank financing, in another
sign of reversal of previous macro-fiscal reforms. Despite the critical importance of health, education, and
social protection for livelihoods and human capital accumulation, public spending on these services has declined
and budget allocations to these sectors have been sharply curtailed.
The impacts of COVID-19 and the aftermath of the military coup are estimated to have erased nearly
a decade of poverty reduction progress. Estimates based on the latest available data indicate that poverty
has doubled compared with its level in March 2020, with about 40 percent of the population now living below
the national poverty line in 2022, matching levels of poverty a decade ago. Inequality is estimated to have
worsened, with those already poor falling into deeper destitution. Moreover, household survey data indicate a
movement of labor away from service industries and into agriculture over the past 18 months, as internal
migration from cities to rural areas has been used as a coping mechanism to deal with job loss. However, this
shift to lower productivity agriculture implies an overall decline in labor productivity, which in turn has dampened household incomes. Lower household incomes in conjunction with higher food and fuel prices and
ongoing credit/liquidity constraints have magnified risks of food insecurity, though these risks may have been
at least partially offset by a pick-up in subsistence production. Household surveys indicate that coping
mechanisms are under increasing strain, with over half of all households reporting cuts to non-food
consumption, and significant proportions across the income distribution reporting cuts to food consumption,
borrowing from friends and family, and sales of assets. While livelihoods have come under increased stress
since 2020, public sector support has declined sharply, with virtually no households reporting receiving any
form of social assistance in May 2022, in contrast to the 43 percent of households which reported receiving
cash assistance in October 2020.
Amid persistent domestic and external headwinds, the economy is projected to only recover modestly
in FY2022, implying continued pressure on incomes and livelihoods. Following the estimated 18 percent
contraction in FY2021, GDP is projected to increase by 3 percent in the year to September 2022. The absence
of a substantial rebound in FY2022 – with GDP still around 13 percent lower than in 2019 – is indicative of
the severe supply- and demand-side constraints that continue to impact economic activity. At the aggregate
level, the slight upward revision of our growth projection from the 1 percent growth forecast in the January
MEM reflects the much less severe than expected impact of the fourth wave of COVID-19 in February and
March. The manufacturing and construction sectors are driving most of the modest growth expected this year,
with services sector activity constrained by weak demand and agricultural production hampered by higher input
prices, logistics constraints, and conflict. Inflation is projected to remain elevated given persistent impacts from
kyat depreciation, logistics constraints, and still-high global prices (despite a recent easing in some food and
fertilizer prices). CPI inflation is projected to average 15 percent in FY22, with year-on-year inflation peaking
in the second half of the year). The current account deficit is expected to widen slightly, with goods imports
increasing by more than goods exports in the year to date, and services exports expected to remain weak. The
fiscal deficit is expected to remain elevated in the twelve months to September 2022. Both expenditure and
revenue outturns worsened significantly in FY21, and only a partial improvement in each is expected in the
following 12 months..."
Source/publisher:
The World Bank (Washington, D.C.)
Date of publication:
2022-07-21
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-21
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Banking, Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Economy: general, analytical, statistical (various sources)
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"YANGON, July 21, 2022 –Myanmar’s economy has faced a series of external and internal disruptions which have impeded recovery from the large contraction in economic activity last year. The absence of a substantial rebound in growth – with GDP in 2022 estimated to still be around 13 percent lower than in 2019 – means that livelihoods and coping mechanisms will continue to be severely strained. About 40 percent of the population is living below the national poverty line in 2022, unwinding nearly a decade of progress on poverty reduction, according to The World Bank’s Myanmar Economic Monitor released today.
Myanmar’s economy is projected to grow 3 percent in the fiscal year ending in September 2022, following an 18% contraction last year. Weak economic activity is indicative of the range of constraints facing the Myanmar economy. These include a sharp rise in the prices of imported inputs and consumer goods, partly attributable to the war in Ukraine; elevated levels of domestic conflict; electricity outages; and persistent logistics and financial sector disruptions. Recent policy shifts have added to challenges for businesses. Burdensome trade license requirements, the abandonment of the managed float exchange rate regime, and the imposition of foreign currency surrender rules have resulted in shortages of key imported inputs and inhibited exporters. Uncertainty among businesses has increased due to the rapid issuance of new policy instructions, including exemptions to previously imposed restrictions, followed by subsequent attempts to revoke those exemptions.
“Myanmar last year experienced one of the worst economic contractions in the world, and the limited growth we forecast this year leaves its economic recovery far behind other countries,” said World Bank Country Director for Myanmar, Cambodia and Lao PDR Mariam Sherman. “This will continue to test the resilience of the Myanmar people, with household incomes declining and coping mechanisms against food insecurity and poverty increasingly under strain amidst ongoing internal conflict.”
While the overall economy has faced headwinds, some sectors have stabilized or recovered over the past twelve months, driving the modest growth expected for this year. Some firms have reported operating at a higher proportion of their capacity in 2022 than was the case in 2021, particularly in the manufacturing sector, and manufactured exports are recovering. Construction activity has also picked up as work on several projects has resumed after a long pause last year, and the pipeline of issued permits has grown. A rise in mobility at workplaces, retail outlets, and transport hubs has supported overall activity, although indicators of consumer spending are weak.
“Despite severe constraints, economic activity has picked up in some areas over the last twelve months, demonstrating the adaptability of Myanmar’s businesses,” said World Bank Senior Economist for Myanmar Kim Edwards. “However, industries more dependent on domestic demand are facing challenges from lower household incomes and rising prices, while agricultural production remains constrained by increased input prices, transport disruptions, and ongoing conflict”.
The spike in inflation has disrupted the operations of all businesses. The latest available data indicate that CPI inflation increased to 17.3 percent (yoy) in March. Increases in global oil prices have driven pronounced increases in domestic fuel prices and transport costs, as well as in the cost of running diesel generators to compensate for recurring electricity outages. Kyat depreciation, supply chain disruptions and the spillover effects of higher transport prices have resulted in price increases for a broader range of imported inputs, squeezing already thin profit margins.
Beyond the projected 3 percent growth in 2022, the outlook remains weak and subject to substantial risks. Domestic prices for food, fuel, and other imported inputs are likely to remain elevated over the short to medium term, constraining both production and consumption. The balance of payments situation is of growing concern, with U.S. dollar shortages already limiting the availability of several imported products, including fuel. Elevated levels of conflict in many areas of the country are expected to continue to constrain productive activity. As a result, a return to pre-pandemic levels of economic activity is unlikely in the near term, in sharp contrast to the rest of the East Asia and
Pacific region, where GDP in all large countries is estimated to have recovered to above 2019 levels or is projected to do so in 2023.
Recent policy shifts are likely to have longer-term effects: inhibiting potential growth, worsening macroeconomic instability, and impairing the efficient allocation of resources. Trade and foreign exchange restrictions have unwound previous reforms to liberalize trade and unify the exchange rate. Stepped up promotion of import substitution and self-sufficiency is reversing much of the increased openness and liberalization that has been a key driver of Myanmar’s strong growth record over much of the last decade. These policy changes have also allowed the authorities greater control over the allocation of resources in the economy, which is likely to benefit some, but ultimately divert resources from their most efficient use. Lessons from Myanmar’s economic history suggest that to the extent that these trends continue, investor confidence and the business environment will weaken further, constraining Myanmar’s growth potential over the longer-term..."
Source/publisher:
The World Bank (Washington, D.C.)
Date of publication:
2022-07-21
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-21
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Banking, Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
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"World Vision has been present in Myanmar for over two and a half decades working for the most vulnerable children and families, partnering with the Government departments, local partners and different stakeholders. Commenced with Health intervention in 1993, WVM has expanded its area of work and has been operating programmes on Education, Child Protection, Health and Nutrition, Livelihoods, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Emergency Response, ensuring that children are well educated, protected from violence and hostile environments, and benefited from their families' secured livelihoods..."
Source/publisher:
World Vision Myanmar
Date of publication:
2022-07-21
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-21
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Right to Health: reports of violations in Burma
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5.03 MB
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"SITUATION AT A GLANCE
6.2 MILLION People Targeted for Humanitarian Assistance in Burma UN – July 2022
783,400 People Displaced Since February 2021 Who Remain IDPs in Burma UNHCR – July 2022
1.1 MILLION People Displaced in Burma UNHCR – July 2022
1.5 MILLION People in Need and Targeted by 2022 Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis JRP UN – March 2022
926,606 Estimated Number of Refugees in Bangladesh UNHCR – June 2022
The total number of IDPs in Burma surpasses 1.1 million people in June, with more than 783,000 individuals displaced by ongoing violence and insecurity since the February 2021 coup.
Approximately 1.3 million children in Burma remain unable to access critical nutrition support, and less than 40 percent of children are enrolled in school, the UN reports.
Severe wind and rain following the onset of the Juneto-October monsoon season destroys more than 9,500 shelters and displaces nearly 9 individuals in Cox’s Bazar from mid-May to late June...."
Source/publisher:
US Agency for International Development (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-20
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-20
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations, 2021 Burma/Myanmar coup d'état
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"The volatile situation in Myanmar following the 01 February 2021 coup has increased armed conflict and subsequent population displacement within and across borders, including in Thailand.
As of 4 July 2022, the Royal Thai Government (RTG) reports that there are 802 refugees remaining on the Thai side of the border. Since February 2021, the RTG estimates that over 21,000 Myanmar refugees have sought temporary safety in Thailand.
Refugees are sheltered in temporary safety areas (TSA), which are placed under the general jurisdiction of the Royal Thai Army by the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) established by the RTG in March 2021.
SITUATION OVERVIEW ON THE THAI MYANMAR BORDER
The security situation continues to deteriorate in Southeast Myanmar with the intensification of armed clashes reported between the Tatmadaw and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) or People's Defence Force (PDF) in several areas. The Military continues to deploy security forces and has increased the use of heavy artilleries. In Kayah State, armed clashes continue, and the State Administration Council(SAC) has been deploying more troops to the area since mid-May. According to the Tagaung Institute of Political Studies and the US-based Wilson Center, there are more than 20,000 resistance fighters in Karenni State
In Kayin State, fierce clashes have been ongoing between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the Tatmadaw following a KNLA attack on a military outpost in Myawaddy Township on 26 June. The battle for control over the outpost is the fiercest fighting that has taken place since last year. In neighboring Mon State, around 7,000 residents from six villages in Thaton Township fled their homes due to arson attacks carried out by security forces, the first time such attacks have taken place in the state.
In the Tanintharyi region, The People’s Defense Force (PDF), KNU, and the Tatmadaw continue to clash, with the latter pressuring the former with logistic hindrances (e.g., road blockage). Since June 24, around 100 military council troops have been entering the area from Kazina village to Sipin Taung, Myanadi Taung. Fighting was occurring mostly in Dawei and Myeik District and scaled up with the Military using heavy artillery throughout the night.
As of 30 June, the total number of internally displaced people (IDPs) in Myanmar displaced since 1 February is 758,500, of whom 244,500 are in the southeast provinces – Kayah, Shan, Kayin, Mon States, and Tanintharyi and Bago regions. In Kayah State, more than 4,000 people were able to return to Loikaw and Demoso Townships. Nevertheless, the security situation in Demoso Township continues to be unstable, with more than 2,000 people unable to return to their places of origin and to experience multiple displacement..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-15
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-15
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general
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"Shan State in Myanmar is home to many diverse communities.
It is the largest state in the country, bordering China to the north, Laos to the east and Thailand to the south. But for decades, this beautiful land has experienced ongoing clashes leading to waves of displacement.
While long-term displacement in the north exacerbates vulnerability both to conflict and COVID-19, newly displaced communities in the south also need urgent humanitarian support.
"I lost everything," says Daw Nu Rai*, a mother of five children who now lives in Hsi Hseng, southern Shan. "We've been displaced for a year now. We couldn't sleep properly till we arrived at this camp three months ago."
Following intense clashes in Kayah State, several thousand people from Loikaw, Demoso, Hpruso and Pekon were forced to leave their homes and seek refuge in southern Shan State. "I didn't know what to do first when the fighting started. I have five children who depend on me," says Daw Nu Rai.
Some undertook their journey by car, some took trucks and others rode motorbikes as they left their homes behind. "We tried to fit four people on one bike when we crossed the Shan and Kayah border. It took us about 12 hours to reach a place that we felt safe in," Daw Nu Rai says.
When people are forced from their homes by conflict, they often have to leave almost everything behind. They arrive at sites of temporary shelter without daily household items like soap, water filters or a roof overhead -- things all too easily take for granted. Many rely on the hospitality of temporary host communities in monasteries, churches or the homes of relatives.
"They have gone through so much over the past months. I can't even imagine the physical and mental trauma that they are going through right now," says Daw Myint* from one such displacement site in Hsi Hseng. As a member of the host community, she has been helping to care for the displaced people from Kayah State.
With multiple generations of a family -- children to grandparents -- displaced together, there is a range of humanitarian needs within the community.
"Every weekend we try to conduct psychosocial support sessions for adults, where we listen to their stories of trauma and comfort them," says Daw Myint.
While dealing with conflict trauma is always challenging, it can be even more difficult for children who are still learning and growing. "We organize playtime and lessons for children to help them refocus their mind and slowly process what is going on around them, at their own pace," says Daw Myint
Alongside the hospitality of the host communities, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been working with the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) to support people displaced by violence in Pin Laung and Hsi Hseng and provide emergency aid.
"We recently completed our second trip to Hsi Hseng and Pin Laung. Together with the MRCS, we were able to provide rice, peas, oil and salt to nearly 2000 families to ensure that they don't go hungry," says Martin Samtan from the ICRC Lashio team.
Beyond emergency assistance, we shared life-saving information about landmines and other explosive hazards that continue to be a risk to all communities. We also shared our ICRC hotline number to help people connect with loved ones separated by clashes or displacement.
Our teams are still on the ground, working with communities affected by conflict, alongside the MRCS, to identify and respond to those most urgent needs..."
Source/publisher:
International Committee of the Red Cross (Geneva) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-13
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
more
Description:
"HIGHLIGHTS
Armed clashes across Myanmar continued to trigger displacement and affect civilians. As of 4 July, an estimated 1,116,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were reported, including some 769,000 people who have been displaced within Myanmar since 1 February 2021.
In the North-West, ongoing fighting continued to undermine the safety and security of civilians with sporadic clashes reported in Chin State and Magway and Sagaing regions.
In the South-East, armed clashes generated some displacement largely due to the deteriorating security situation in Mon State, Bago (East) and Tanintharyi regions. Humanitarian access remained challenging although new displacement and IDP returns to areas of origin continues to be monitored. In protracted situations, many IDPs face acute food and supply shortages, which have been exacerbated by a shortage of essential goods and services in the host community.
In Kachin and Shan (North), IDPs’ limited access to financial services continued to undermine their capacity to engage in sustainable livelihoods. Access to education was another challenge, particularly in Kachin and Shan (North) as a result of school closures in response to COVID-19 and security-related measures. Other challenges facing children and adolescents include forced recruitment and child marriage.
In Rakhine State, simmering tensions spilled over into clashes in Chin State’s Paletwa Township on 27 June. The abduction of two teachers in Maungdaw (North) also heightened existing anxieties within communities. The evolving situation stands to impact the already limited freedom of movement for the Rohyinga communities, further impeding access to services and social cohesion.
RESPONSE
Myanmar
In the South-East, UNHCR and partners distributed core relief items (CRIs) to 14,000 people in Kayin and Kayah States and Bago (East) Region. 850 people in Kayah State and Shan State (North) received corrugated galvanized iron sheets to help them construct transitional shelters.
In response to several landmine related incidents in Kayah State, UNHCR, in collaboration with UNICEF, distributed 750 mine risk education leaflets to IDPs.
In Rakhine State, UNHCR and partners distributed CRIs to 6,300 people living in Rohingya IDP camps and IDP sites. Following heavy rains and strong winds, 19,750 people living in camps and sites received emergency shelter assistance. The distribution of shelter-related materials is also planned for some 5,000 people in displacement sites.
As part of COVID-19 prevention and response measures, UNHCR and partners provided personal protective equipment to 3,400 people. In Rakhine State (North), humanitarian access continues to be restricted, particularly for some 1,400 families currently residing in IDP sites.
In the North-West, preparations for a multi-sectoral needs assessment by UNHCR and partners are already underway in Magway Region. This exercise is intended to promote responsive humanitarian assistance for all affected populations.
In Kachin and Shan (North), UNHCR and partners provided 270 corrugated galvanized iron sheets to support the maintenance of existing shelters and reconstruction of shelters burned down in a recent fire. In addition, 3,275 IDPs living in 10 displacement sites in Shan State (North) received solar lamps. In order to better understand the diverse needs and protection..."
Source/publisher:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-13
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-13
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
8.65 MB
more
Description:
"HIGHLIGHTS
Armed clashes across Myanmar continued to trigger displacement and affect civilians. As of 4 July, an estimated 1,116,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were reported, including some 769,000 people who have been displaced within Myanmar since 1 February 2021.
In the North-West, ongoing fighting continued to undermine the safety and security of civilians with sporadic clashes reported in Chin State and Magway and Sagaing regions.
In the South-East, armed clashes generated some displacement largely due to the deteriorating security situation in Mon State, Bago (East) and Tanintharyi regions. Humanitarian access remained challenging although new displacement and IDP returns to areas of origin continues to be monitored. In protracted situations, many IDPs face acute food and supply shortages, which have been exacerbated by a shortage of essential goods and services in the host community.
In Kachin and Shan (North), IDPs’ limited access to financial services continued to undermine their capacity to engage in sustainable livelihoods. Access to education was another challenge, particularly in Kachin and Shan (North) as a result of school closures in response to COVID-19 and security-related measures. Other challenges facing children and adolescents include forced recruitment and child marriage.
In Rakhine State, simmering tensions spilled over into clashes in Chin State’s Paletwa Township on 27 June. The abduction of two teachers in Maungdaw (North) also heightened existing anxieties within communities. The evolving situation stands to impact the already limited freedom of movement for the Rohyinga communities, further impeding access to services and social cohesion..."
Source/publisher:
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (Geneva) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-12
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNHCR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
8.65 MB
more
Description:
"Highlights:
The cost of the basic food basket (rice, oil, chickpeas, salt) remained stable in most areas, except in Mon where the price of chickpeas and salt increased as the rainy season contributed to ongoing transportation challenges and costs.
Edible oil prices were stable overall in May, although with some variation seen across markets due to transportation costs. It is unclear to what extent the rate setting of edible oil prices at wholesale level, implemented by the Ministry of Commerce in an effort to stem price escalation, affected retail prices in retail markets.
Slight seasonal increases in rice prices (+3% overall) were observed as planting season got underway.
Egg prices continue to rise (+10%) due in large part to high costs of chicken feed, linked to declining availability of livestock feed amidst Russia-Ukraine conflict. Almost all areas are now seeing prices more than 50% higher than last year.
Tomato prices increased across most markets due to decline in local seasonal production.
Transportation is still affected everywhere by insecurity (particularly in Chin, Sagaing and Kayin) as well as the high costs of fuel – Octane fuels rose by about 13% and diesel by about 24% month-on-month since April and are more than double that of one year ago..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-05
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-05
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
1.78 MB
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Description:
"EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
This report covers the period January to December 2021 and outlines TBC’s progress based on the organisation’s Strategic Directions for Thailand and Myanmar 2020–2022.
The Myanmar Armed Forces staged a coup on 1st of February, citing false claims of electoral fraud. following the coup nationwide protests were held in opposition to the unconstitutional seizure of power by the SAC. Over 1,300 people were killed by the military in its crackdown against protests and conflict between both EAOs and PDFs against the military increased. The National Unity Government was formed in opposition to SAC and has played a major role in opposition to SAC in the international arena. In southeastern Myanmar indiscriminate artillery attacks against civilians in northern Karen and Kayah States were the primary cause of displacement for 200,000 people by the year’s end. The humanitarian situation inside Myanmar became increasingly dire, with few avenues for positive developments. TBC provided an emergency response where over 200,000 civilians benefitted from access to multi-sectoral humanitarian aid to alleviate basic needs. The coup, and subsequent breakdown in central government exacerbated the threats of COVID-19 and facilitated a failing vaccine drive and inadequate healthcare support to those with COVID-19. By the end of the year 16,000 people had died from COVID-19. The coup also devastated Myanmar’s economy and banking system and vastly increased the number of people living in poverty.
In Thailand, outbreaks of COVID-19 occurred in eight refugee camps. Coronavirus Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) protocols continued to be implemented throughout the year and has led to largely remote communications with camps. Despite these challenges food security remained strong and stable in all camps. Indeed, the humanitarian needs of encamped refugees of food, cooking fuel and shelter were met, while TBC also facilitated key activities in nutrition, shelter and camp governance. Due to COVID-19 and the military coup, the UNHCR-facilitated voluntarily repatriation, postponed in 2020, as well as TBC’s assistance for return preparedness, remained on hold. TBC also provided emergency humanitarian support to those displaced from fighting in Myanmar and who sought refuge in Thailand. Since February 2021, approximately 16,000 refugees crossed into Thailand to flee fighting and seek protection. They were disallowed entry to the established refugee camps and the majority of these new refugees returned to Myanmar, mostly under duress, with 3,200 still in Thailand in Temporary Safety Areas at the year’s end. At the end of December 4,800 officially remained in Temporary Safety areas. Meanwhile, 80,982 people remained in the nine camps in Thailand of whom, during the year, 410 were resettled to third countries and 1,313 children were born in the camps..."
Source/publisher:
The Border Consortium (Thailand) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-04-01
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-04
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, TBC, TBBC, : Annual reports and 6-monthly Programme Reports, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
12.77 MB (50 pages) - Original version
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Description:
"Introduction
The nutrition situation and wasting treatment/ integrated management of acute malnutrition (IMAM) in Myanmar Globally, 45.4 million children under five years of age are wasted. In 2012, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) incorporated the World Health Assembly Resolution’s 2025 global targets to reduce and maintain wasting/ acute malnutrition to less than 5% but these targets are off track. In Myanmar, while wasting/ acute malnutrition has decreased from 13%3 in 1991 to 7%4 in 2018, the prevalence of wasting/ acute malnutrition remains above the global target and progress has likely deteriorated due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the coup d’etat in February 2021.
Wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment in Myanmar is integrated into the existing health service delivery system where healthcare workers who provide wasting/ acute malnutrition services also treat children with pneumonia, malaria and other diseases. Integrated management of acute malnutrition (IMAM) or wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment is delivered by basic health staff (BHS), community volunteers, local/ international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and through government hospitals.
Nutrition-specific service provision in Myanmar had been decreasing since 2017, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving many children untreated and thus increasing the risk of malnutrition, morbidity and mortality. Nutrition services, including active wasting/ acute malnutrition case detection, referral and treatment, have been severely disrupted by insecurity and increased access restrictions since 2017.5 Service provision, including outside of Rakhine, has been further reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent political instability. Scale-up and uptake of wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment in Myanmar remains low with only 42.3% of children with severe wasting/ acute malnutrition and 20.4% of children with moderate wasting/ acute malnutrition targeted receiving treatment in 2021.6 A recent barrier analysis of wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment in Rakhine State, Myanmar identified the following key challenges and barriers:
● Difficulties obtaining travel authorisation (TA) for service provision for international and national NGOs to operate and for caregivers to travel to health facilities to seek treatment leads to gaps in providing and accessing wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment services. Caregivers who often have to travel long distances to seek treatment and cannot afford the transportation costs do not seek treatment. Therefore, children are either not treated or treatment is delayed, increasing risk of mortality.
● There is limited coverage of treatment services even in locations where nutrition partners and governments are operational. There has always been a low coverage of treatment services in Rakhine State but since the coup d’etat, several outpatient therapeutic programme (OTP) sites provided through government health facilities that were operational have not provided consistent services and funding for those locations was at times discontinued due to the approach of limiting engagement with the de facto authorities.
● Obtaining a memorandum of understanding (MOU) required by organisations providing services is a long process and is typically inflexible in changing service activities and locations, making scale-up of wasting/ acute malnutrition treatment difficult..."
Source/publisher:
Crown Agents and Humanitarian Assistance and Resilience Programme
Date of publication:
2022-07-01
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-01
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Arakan (Rakhine) State - reports etc. by date (latest first)
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
3.36 MB (78 pages) - Original version
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Description:
"Highlights:
• Halfway throughout the year, UNICEF has only received 19 per cent of the required financial resources to respond to increasing humanitarian needs. This is severely affecting the capacity to respond. Without additional resources, targeted children in need will not access humanitarian assistance and services.
• The national total of internally displaced people (IDP) has reached an unprecedented 1.1 million, including 758,500 IDPs since 1 February 2021, consequently increasing the multisectoral needs of the displaced communities.
• Direct distribution was provided by UNICEF to IDPs in Loikaw and Demoso townships in Kayah from 7 to 14 June. A total of 16,023 individuals from 3,566 households received much-needed WASH, child protection, education, health and nutrition supplies.
• 1,862 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition have received treatment since the beginning of the year, representing 5 per cent of the target. The nutrition programme has a funding gap of 86 per cent. With additional funding, the targeted 37,503 severely malnourished children could be provided with therapeutic treatment.
Funding Overview and Partnerships
UNICEF Myanmar Country Office is appealing for US$151.4 million to deliver humanitarian assistance to the displaced and host populations across the country. The Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) estimates that a total of 14.4 million people, including 5 million children, are in need of assistance this year. UNICEF has received generous contributions from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA), the Government of Denmark, the European Commission/ECHO, the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), the Government of Japan, the Korean Committee for UNICEF, the Government of Norway, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), and the Global Humanitarian Thematic Funding. These funds will contribute to delivering much-needed assistance through UNICEF Child Protection, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Education, Health and Nutrition programmes and responses to affected populations. Although US$29.13 million has been received so far through the UNICEF Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) appeal, the funding gap of 81 per cent is severely affecting our ability to provide aid to the targeted populations, especially children in need of humanitarian assistance and services. Continued donor support is critical to continue scaling up the response. UNICEF expresses its sincere appreciation to all private and public donors for their contributions to supporting the children of Myanmar.
Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs
The humanitarian and security situation remains extremely serious across the country, particularly in the northwest and southeast regions, where active fighting continues to be reported, resulting in continuous population displacement. As of 20 June 2022, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported a national total of more than 1.1 million displaced civilians1 , including 758,500 internally displaced people (IDP) across the country since the military takeover of 1 February 2021, in addition to 346,600 IDP estimated to be displaced before the coup. For the past two months, a considerable surge of displacement has been reported in Sagaing, with a total of 395,600 IDPs located within the region, including an estimated 146,000 children and their families with immediate needs for essential services. Clashes and insecurity are currently hindering most partners from accessing the area, and the deteriorating situation is triggering severe concerns as needs are expected to increase, while access remains restricted. The restrictions and barriers on access to internet, in addition to the constraints related to transportation of basic supplies, pose further obstacles to the coordination and distribution of aid in the region.
In the southeast, the overall number of people displaced by conflict remains stable, and new displacements during this period have been offset by reported returns. At the beginning of June, UNHCR reported2 approximately 83,000 IDPs in Kayah and more than 50,000 IDPs in southern Shan. UNICEF accessed Loikaw township in Kayah state, where a significant number of IDPs was reported to have returned. Immediate delivery of humanitarian assistance was provided by UNICEF through the direct distribution modality from 7 to 14 June. A total of 16,023 individuals from 3,566 households in Loikaw and Demoso townships received basic WASH, child protection, education, health and nutrition supplies. UNICEF provided mine risk education through pamphlets to 1,500 families, 340 pregnant and lactating mothers received multi-vitamin tablets covering a period of 3 months, 864 children aged 6 to 59 months received nutrition bowls and feeding messages, 1,400 children aged 5 to 12 years received storybooks about COVID-19 prevention and social skills to reinforce reading capabilities, 2,500 children under the age of 18 received child protection kits, and 33 communities received water purification tablets and knowledge on how to use them in order to prevent waterborne diseases. The overall distribution was achieved successfully and brought considerable relief to the returned communities. UNICEF hopes to build upon this experience to foster continuous access to areas previously out of reach. Unimpeded access remains crucial for the delivery of life-saving assistance and appropriate coverage of essential services for the most vulnerable population, including children, often located in areas with severe operational constraints..."
Source/publisher:
UN Children's Fund (New York) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-07-01
Date of entry/update:
2022-07-01
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
448.32 KB
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Description:
"Key points
Humanitarian needs in Myanmar continue to rise sharply since February 2021 as a result of political and economic upheaval and increased conflict.
Myanmar is facing a rapidly growing food security crisis, and nearly one in four people are already food insecure. Ongoing violence, economic crisis, recurrent climate-induced shocks, population displacement and COVID-19, among other factors, are disrupting the entire national food system.
Since January 2022, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has assisted 14 115 households (70 575 people) through the provision of staple crop seeds and fertilizers along with the implementation of cash-based interventions, enabling them to produce their own food and meet their basic needs.
Challenges facing food security and agriculture
Agriculture is a source of livelihoods for nearly 70 percent of the population of Myanmar. The ongoing crisis is reversing hard-won agricultural development gains and posing an enormous threat to the livelihoods and food security of agriculture-dependent communities. Intense violence is triggering new waves of population displacement and disrupting livelihoods across the food supply chain. In 2021, 24 percent of farmers reduced the size of their planted areas and 18 percent reported a reduction in expected harvest. Moreover, while the incomes of smallholder farmers continue to decline, the cost of production inputs continue to rise. For example, the cost of fertilizers is currently 3.6 times higher than in 2019 and high-quality seeds are increasingly becoming unavailable or unaffordable. As a result, food production is declining and food prices are soaring, leading to unprecedented and critical levels of food insecurity with 89 percent of households adopting at least one negative coping mechanism. Against this backdrop, protecting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers to enable them to feed themselves and their communities is a frontline humanitarian response. Without urgent and scaled up interventions to protect agricultural livelihoods, the food security crisis will inevitably deteriorate further and the numbers of people who resort to negative coping mechanisms and/or rely on food aid for their survival will continue to grow.
In collaboration with its local and international partners, FAO is responding to the crisis through providing smallholder farmers across Myanmar with access to fertilizers and high-quality seeds along with the implementation of cash-based interventions. Furthermore, FAO will provide livestock keeping households with animal feed to enable them to keep their livestock assets alive, healthy and productive. FAO is also focusing on enhancing the technical knowledge and skills of community-based service providers, and on promoting healthy diets among highly vulnerable groups..."
Source/publisher:
Food and Agriculture Organization (Rome) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-06-28
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-29
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
475.73 KB
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Description:
"This regular update, covering humanitarian developments up to 21 June, is produced by OCHA Myanmar in collaboration with the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group and UN agencies. The next humanitarian update will be issued in July 2022.
HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES
• The number of displaced men, women and children in Myanmar remains above one million. This includes nearly 760,000 people displaced by the conflict and insecurity since the military takeover in February last year.
• The monsoon season continues to cause heavy rain and flooding. In June in Kachin State, 600 people were relocated to higher grounds due to flooding. Responses by the de facto authorities and humanitarian partners are underway in high-risk areas.
• Humanitarians continue providing critical life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable people despite access challenges and limited funding. Concerted advocacy efforts have led to new, but modest access in the country’s southeast. Expanded access in hard-to reach areas across the southeast and the northwest (Chin, Sagaing and Magway) is still much needed.
• Inflation in commodity prices, including food, fuel, shelter materials and NFIs, remains a major concern to partners in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable people. Myanmar is particularly vulnerable to price hikes given its heavy dependence on importation of products.
• More than four million children—half of the school-aged children in Myanmar—have not accessed education for two full academic years.
• The limited availability of staff, health facilities and supplies are contributing to the worsening of maternal and child health outcomes and poor emergency health care. The monsoon season will increase the spread of communicable diseases, which requires urgent action and expansion of basic primary health care and preventive measures.
• Approximately 71,600 internally displaced people (IDPs) in MAF-AA displacement sites in Rakhine State lack treatment programs for malnourished children and pregnant and lactating women. This is a critical gap given levels of malnutrition in IDP communities in Rakhine State.
• The funding situation for 2022 remains dire with the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) only 11 per cent funded six months into the year. This leaves a gap of US$740m (FTS), negatively affecting the breadth and quality of assistance delivered by humanitarians.
KEY FIGURES *
1M People internally displaced across Myanmar
758K People currently displaced by clashes and insecurity since February 2021
346K People internally displaced mainly in Rakhine, Kachin, Chin, and Shan due to conflict prior to February 2021
18K 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
Fighting has escalated across multiple states and regions in Myanmar, particularly in the southeast and northwest during the reporting period, with no signs of abating. Nearly, 2,000 civilians were killed during hostilities and other fatal incidents, including landmines and explosive remnant of war (ERWs) since the military takeover. The number of IDPs has also continued to increase despite some reported returns. According to UN figures, the estimated number of IDPs since the military takeover has passed 758,000, including more than 250,000 children bringing the total number of IDP across the country to over 1,100,000. Over 40,000 people remain in neighbouring countries since the takeover. More than 18,058 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries, and schools are estimated to have been destroyed during hostilities, although figures are difficult to verify. The level of destruction of civilian properties, particularly homes, combined with the seemingly never-ending fighting will very likely prolong the displacement of the IDPs and would further deteriorate their already fragile living conditions.
The current volatile security situation and its associated restrictions, such as bureaucratic processes, systematic blocks on access approvals, continue to hamper humanitarian access and delay the delivery of assistance. People’s suffering across the country will be prolonged. Despite these obstacles, humanitarian partners, including local partners, continue to stay and deliver critical and life-saving assistance to address both pre-existing and new emerging needs of the most affected people, including IDPs and host community, wherever possible. These include responses to temporary evacuated people who are affected by this year’s monsoon season. In parallel, recent concerted advocacy efforts to gain principled access have borne fruits in the past two months and partners managed to reach areas previously not fully accessible in Kayah, reaching tens of thousands of people with shelter, NFI, hygiene and food assistance. A multisector needs identification mission of the displaced population from Kayah to southern Shan was also possible. This will be followed by a multi-sectoral distribution at the end of June/early July. It is hoped that these openings could be a step towards broader access in hard-to-reach areas across the southeast. Despite these modest improvements, overall access to conflict areas remains a challenge especially in areas outside the control of the State Administration Council (SAC). Humanitarian access to the northwest also remains heavily restricted although some support is reaching people at a modest scale.
On top of access constraints, funding remains critical to provide the breadth and quality of humanitarian assistance. Six months into 2022, the Humanitarian Response Plan is only 11 per cent funded, leaving a gap of US$740m (FTS). The ability of humanitarian partners to save more lives and reduce suffering throughout the remainder of the year will be dependent on increased funding, improved access approvals, application of creative, flexible funding and response modalities, as well as the removal or easing of the bottlenecks such as visa delays and banking restrictions..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-06-28
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-28
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
743.79 KB
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Description:
"JAKARTA – As food and fuel prices are rising at alarming rates throughout the world, Parliamentarians from Southeast Asia are urging the economic ministers of their countries to gather in an emergency summit and agree on measures to tackle impending food shortages and widespread hunger currently threatening millions of their fellow citizens.
The global economy, already weakened by the pandemic, is taking another blow with the war in Ukraine, one of the main producers of grain in the world. Shortages of food, increases in oil prices, and fears of a global recession are already increasing prices of essential commodities. The average inflation rate in ASEAN went from 3.1 percent in December 2021 to 4.7 percent in April 2022, compared to 0.9 percent in January 2021. And, as always, this affects the poor most dramatically.
“ASEAN needs to act collectively, and needs to do it now. Climate change, the ravages of Covid-19, inequality in access to resources, and now Russia’s war on Ukraine, are having devastating impacts that no country can solve alone. It is necessary to urgently put in place a coordinated effort to protect the most vulnerable from a potentially devastating economic downturn,” said Mercy Barends, Member of Parliament in Indonesia and Board member of ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR).
Inflation in food prices could even further increase the number of undernourished people in ASEAN. According to data from the World Bank, the share of undernourished people ranged in 2019 from 5.3 percent in Laos to 6.5 percent in Indonesia, 6.7 percent in Vietnam, 7.6 percent in Myanmar, 8.2 percent in Thailand or 9.4 percent in the Philippines.
People displaced from their homes are particularly vulnerable to increased food prices, which take an even higher toll on women and children. In Myanmar, there are over a million internally displaced persons (IDPs), most of whom were pushed to flee their homes as a consequence of the conflict triggered by the illegal coup d’état on 1 February 2021.
ASEAN member states adopted in 2020 the Integrated Food Security Framework, outlining food security measures that included food emergency and shortage relief measures, but it needs to be updated and enhanced in order to address a problem which is worsening. ASEAN must prepare for the future and act decisively to facilitate easy access to food for all, support its producers, and scale-up targeted, and nutrition-sensitive, social protection programs.
“Our economic ministers must come up with a clear roadmap on how to tackle the severe consequences of the current rise in food prices on those who are already experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity and hunger. We need trust and cooperation, and only through a collective effort will we be able to overcome the many challenges that have combined to create this crisis,” said Barends..."
Source/publisher:
ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights
Date of publication:
2022-06-27
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-27
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Language:
more
Description:
"LIFT/UNOPS response addresses immediate needs while also supporting longer-term development.
Thousands of Myanmar families share a typical plight of being stuck in a cycle of conflict, rising levels of food insecurity and protracted healthcare crisis, and many have experienced multiple displacements, leaving behind their homes, crops, and livestock. For the first time, the number of displaced men, women and children in Myanmar has exceeded one million, including 700,000 people displaced by the conflict and insecurity since the military takeover in February last year. Host communities who were already struggling to sustain their livelihoods are also supporting those that have been displaced.
The Livelihoods and Food Security Fund (LIFT), a multi-donor fund managed by the United Nations Office for Projects Services (UNOPS) delivers relief, livelihood and resilience programming to vulnerable communities across Myanmar aiming to sustainably improve household food security and community resilience to economic and climatic shocks and stresses. Below are several examples of how LIFT/UNOPS and its partners help support vulnerable communities and households through income generation and employment creation, strengthening of food systems and nutrition support, natural resource management, and community asset creation in a challenging environment.
Support for community-based health services
LIFT and partners work with local health practitioners, volunteers and ethnic health service providers to strengthen the community-based health services by providing a wide range of integrated health, WASH and essential nutrition services to more than 300,000 people including internally displaced people, the elderly, people with disabilities, migrants, pregnant and breastfeeding women and their children, and adolescent girls.
Cash-for-livelihoods support
38-year old Ma Toe Lwin (name changed) from Mawlamyinegyun has what’s called a ‘strong business intuition’. Knowing that a high fishing season is approaching, she launched a fishing net weaving and repairing business, with cash-for-livelihoods support from LIFT’s partners. Having been in the fishing business since her early 20s, Ma Toe Lwin is able to distinguish the quality of fishing nets but it was the lack of capital that didn’t allow her to stock nets for trading before the fishing season.
With cash support from LIFT, Ma Toe Lwin mobilised a group of women to produce about 100 fishing nets, in time for the upcoming fishing season so they can be sold to the fishermen. During high seasons, Ma Toe Lwin’s enterprise can employ up to 75 women allowing for a faster production chain. Proceeds from their sales are shared between the group members while a portion of earnings is saved for future investments.
Agriculture development support
“We keep using traditional growing methods and our planting has faced a lot of problems like pest infection and plant diseases. We did not know very well about the proper usage of fertilizers and pesticides, which caused us low yields”, said U Saw. Having struggled for years, U Saw sought knowledge of advanced agricultural techniques that would help him to improve his farm production and support better access to healthy food for his family.
When the LIFT-supported project reached the village, U Saw eagerly joined the training on agriculture to learn small-scale agri-business, good agricultural practices, and plant protection techniques. The practical sessions led him to explore natural composting methods, soil preparation methods and soil pH measurements. “In the past, I used to apply ready-made pesticides on my farm. So, it was costly and I also didn’t wear any protection while I was using chemical fertilizers and I often suffered from nausea and vomiting”.
Saw was convinced of the health benefits of organically grown crops, and he upgraded his farm to an organic farm. “The project supported me with a capital fund and black bamboos which are necessary in cultivating tomatoes. Tomato is the main crop I grow and I had an acre for purely organic cultivation this year. I applied all the agricultural techniques I learned from the training and the capital support of the project also helped me step up my farm. The yield this year has really increased as I expected. I am really happy that my earnings are pretty well and I can even repay all my debts,” said U Saw with a big smile on his face.
The traditional farmer who used the chemical fertilizers in the past is now stepping up as a leading farmer in the area who shares with his peers on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) that he received from the training. “We need to protect our land and environment by reducing the usage of chemicals so we are introducing organic farming step by step”, a proud and dedicated farmer U Saw said.
Support and assistance for internally displaced persons
But as the COVID-19 crisis deepened, Khine Mar lost all sources of income. “It has not been easy for us since the pandemic hit. Some organizations provided us with assistance such as food and essentials, but travel and access restrictions made such support irregular”, he said.
So he sought domestic work around his neighbourhood but there was little demand. He thought he had left such uncertainty behind when he fled his home village. Khine Mar was among other residents of the camp to receive a cash transfer of 65,000 MMK, provided by LIFT through its partners as a means to help IDPs cover their most basic food needs or purchase other basic items and services to protect themselves from COVID-19 and its socio-economic impacts.
“It’s the first time I receive such significant support and it was timely and helpful”, said Khine Mar of the cash transfer.
He used part of the payment to buy food for his children and is cooking more nutritious meals for his children. By scaling up multi-purpose cash transfer assistance, food assistance in kind and vouchers, cash/food for work schemes, psychosocial support and counselling services for trauma and gender-based violence, LIFT and partners have reached over 131,000 vulnerable people with social protection programmes in 2021 alone.
Supporting small-scale community enterprises
“We all joined a dry fish (snakehead fish) production training and learned how to cut fish by removing skin and bones and preserve it without using chemicals. We sell our product locally and online, and then share the profit while keeping 5 per cent of earnings in our group’s saving fund,” said Daw Myint.
It takes the group seven to ten days for a full production cycle - from purchasing raw fish to selling the ready product. Each member’s profit is sufficient to cover their household expenses such as food, education and healthcare while savings are planned for investing into other businesses. “Dried fish production is a seasonal business, and we are thinking of launching some farming enterprises too”, concluded Daw Myint.
Relief & Resilience response across Myanmar, including people living with disabilities
In 2021, 30 of LIFT’s partners from different thematics and geographic regions utilized $11.6 million USD for Relief & Resilience response to reach about 900,000 vulnerable people including internally displaced persons and people living with disabilities in different states and regions of Myanmar with multi-sectoral emergency aid. It is the hand-in-hand collaboration with partners that enabled LIFT-funded support to help restore and boost resilient livelihoods while strengthening the food security of vulnerable groups.
Nutrition and WASH awareness
In Kachin and Northern Shan, over 12,000 women from the most vulnerable households have been part of LIFT-funded nutrition-sensitive activities which included nutrition and WASH awareness, training in home gardening and in-kind support (food and WASH items).
Improving working conditions for women garment factory workers
Everyday, hundreds of unskilled women come from rural areas to cities to work in one of over 400 garment factories. Working in a garment factory is often the only possibility for young women from rural areas to earn money and become economically independent, and the income they generate is also used to support the families they’ve left behind. However, working in a garment factory also poses several challenges for these young women: while trying to navigate life in a new city without their family, friends and support network, the women also face harsh working conditions in the factory every day. In an effort to improve working conditions for women workers at garment factories, LIFT’s partners initiated a pilot to collaborate with a factory to upgrade its infrastructure by building or renovating canteens, toilets and healthcare facilities as well as installing cooling systems to provide some basic comfort and amenities as well as to create a space where the women are able to interact with each other. Though at its very early stage, the pilot has already proved success as workers appreciated improvements and it resulted in higher productivity and higher incomes..."
Source/publisher:
United Nations Office for Project Services via United Nations Myanmar
Date of publication:
2022-06-23
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-23
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
more
Description:
"Key Facts
WFP has assisted more than 2 million people in Myanmar during the first quarter of 2022, with plans to assist at least 4 million by the end of the year.
Those assisted mainly include people newly displaced by conflict, people living in prolonged displacement, and poor urban dwellers – mostly women and children – whose livelihoods and food security status have been affected by the economic crisis.
WFP continues to seek humanitarian access to tens of thousands of displaced and vulnerable populations in active conflict zones who are in urgent need of emergency food and nutrition assistance.
Funding Requirements
WFP requires USD 66.8 million between June to December 2022 to ensure uninterrupted support to its beneficiaries. Of the required amount, USD 43.8 million (66 percent) is for life-saving food assistance. Funding for urban operations is expected to run out in August, while cash-based operations in crisis-affected areas will face interruptions in September 2022, affecting IDPs and other vulnerable people.
Situation Update
Escalating conflict and displacement: Clashes between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and various armed groups have continued to escalate in 2022, especially in the north-west and the south-east regions of the country.
Civilians continue to bear the brunt of these conflicts, with 240,000 displaced during the first quarter of the year. The total number of IDPs – both pre- and post-military takeover – in Myanmar now stands at more than 1 million (UNHCR). The security and humanitarian situation remains tense in many areas, with active conflict – including airstrikes, artillery fire, ambushes, and raids – a daily threat for many civilians. Extended periods of conflict in some areas have cut ties between civilians and their homes, and their sources of livelihoods: many farmers have not planted or harvested crops, while seasonal workers have been unable to secure crucial casual employment.
Rising food and fuel prices: Fuel prices increased 18 percent between February and March this year, driven by global uncertainty, the conflict in Ukraine, and local conditions. At the end of March, fuel prices in Myanmar were more than double those registered in February 2021 (+133 percent), according to WFP’s March Market Price update.
The increase in fuel prices has caused transport costs to rise – a key driver of increasing retail food prices. The cost of a basic food basket increased by 10 percent from February to March, and the highest month-on-month increases were recorded in northern Rakhine State (+29%) and Kayah State (+26%). Compared to the same time last year, the average cost of a basic food basket is up 32 percent.
Edible oil prices rose by 23 percent between February and March, mostly due to high transport costs and volatility in local exchange rates. The average price of rice increased 7 percent from February to March with rising prices felt nearly everywhere in the country. Rising fertilizer prices could drive food prices higher still. While Myanmar mainly imports fertilizer from China, the conflict in Ukraine is expected to have knock-on effects on the availability and price of fertilizer in Myanmar.
Access challenges: Humanitarian access to newly displaced populations, mainly in active conflict zones, remains largely restricted, limiting WFP’s ability to reach populations in urgent need of food assistance. The lengthy process required to secure travel authorizations for WFP’s monthly distributions remains a challenge. Travel authorizations are often granted on a tight schedule, allowing only limited periods to distribute humanitarian assistance.
WFP continues to plan well in advance to ensure travel authorizations are granted in time for distributions to proceed on schedule, as the security situation allows.
Meeting humanitarian needs: The conflict in Ukraine, coupled with the protracted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, is exerting a negative impact on food prices, lead times and supplier capacity. In Myanmar, these issues are exacerbated by conflict within the country.
Many displaced farmers have been unable to harvest and sow crops since October of 2021. If this continues, the sowing of paddy rice will also be affected in many areas. The cumulative effect is likely to be a reduction in farmers’ income and food stock, which could result in a rice shortage in the market and even higher prices.
WFP will continue to use its monthly market updates to monitor the costs of food and fuel, and work with field offices and partners to identify potential activity adaptations, such as coordinating ahead of time with banks to ensure funds are available for cash-based transfers, adjusting transport contracts, and increasing the value of cash-based transfers to meet the basic needs of beneficiaries. WFP also continues to allow more lead time for the procurement of food and nutrition rations.
A potential risk is that WFP will need to pay more to procure commodities from international markets, which would require additional funding or reducing relief assistance coverage..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome)
Date of publication:
2022-06-06
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-06
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.41 MB
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Description:
"Highlights
While there was a slight reprieve in fuel prices in mid-April, the upward trend continued by the end of the month and is expected to worsen given the global context. High fuel and transport costs will continue to be major factor affecting retail prices of commodities.
Cooking oil prices also stabilized briefly this month, except in areas with intensification of conflict and disruption in transportation - Sagaing, Kayin, Chin.
Quarterly monitoring of market functionality suggests strain on markets with slight increase in proportion of traders with negative perceptions around availability of products, price stability 1 week and 1 month ahead, and lead times for ordering compared to December 2021, though not as high as in July – September 2021.
Egg prices increased due to rising costs of poultry feed as all livestock producers seek alternatives to wheat in the wake of the Ukraine conflict causing a range of grain commodity prices to rise.
Insecurity continues to deteriorate in the northwest and southeast, affecting access to markets, transport costs, and ability of shops to re-stock
Retail prices rose in Wa region due to lockdown of MongPawk market affecting all commodities; Chickpea prices return to normal in northern Rakhine following Eid..."
Source/publisher:
World Food Programme (Rome) via reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-06-02
Date of entry/update:
2022-06-02
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
WFP (World Food Programme), Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.17 MB
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Description:
"Executive Summary:
Introduction:
Key nutrition services in Rakhine could not be implemented as planned in 2021. The nutrition dashboard for Rakhine (January to December 2021) showed that 41% of the target for severe acute malnutrition (SAM) treatment was reached (3,758 children out of 9,105 targeted), while for moderate acute malnutrition treatment (MAM) only 20% of the target was reached (6,425 children out of 31,509 targeted).....
Many more (185,401) children 6-59 months of age were screened with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) in 2021 as compared to the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) target for the year of 87,327. The 4W overview (UNICEF August 2021) showed that MUAC screening was done in half of all villages and wards in Rakhine. The fact that many more children were screened and that substantially less were reached for MAM/SAM treatment (as compared to the annual targets) suggests that there is a discrepancy between screening and treatment.....
Purpose:
It is well-known that the context in 2020/2021 has been difficult and nutrition partners have faced many barriers, some of which were beyond their control. To increase coverage of nutrition services in Rakhine State, Myanmar, it is essential to understand and address the key barriers. This report aimed to identify key challenges and bottlenecks within the current situation and to develop realistic actionable solutions to overcome identified challenges for the treatment of wasting/ acute malnutrition as well as other nutrition services: infant and young child feeding (IYCF) services, blanket supplementary feeding programmes (BSFP), cash/food distributions and maternal and child cash transfer (MCCT) programmes).....
Methods:
A secondary literature review and key informant interviews (KII) with key stakeholders were conducted to identify barriers and solutions. A workshop with the Nutrition Cluster was conducted virtually to validate the key findings and prioritise barriers and solutions. Information was triangulated to formulate seven key barriers and recommended solutions.....
Findings:
The following are the priority barriers and solutions identified. There are five priority barriers related to nutrition treatment services and two priority barriers related to other nutrition services..."
Source/publisher:
Crown Agents, Humanitarian Assistance and Resilience Programme
Date of publication:
2022-05-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Arakan (Rakhine) State - reports etc. by date (latest first)
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
2.03 MB
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Description:
"HIGHLIGHTS & KEY MESSAGES
• For the first time, the number of displaced men, women and children in Myanmar has exceeded one million. This includes almost 700,000 people displaced by the conflict and insecurity since the military takeover in February last year.
• The monsoon season is now in full swing with strong storms and heavy rain hitting Rakhine, Kachin, southern Shan, and Kayin since April, causing damage to shelters and further compounding existing vulnerabilities.
Humanitarian responses and preparedness efforts are underway in high-risk areas.
• Humanitarians continue providing critical life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable people despite access challenges and limited funding. During the first quarter of 2022, 2.6 million people were reached with humanitarian assistance (41 per cent of the 2022 HRP target).
• Inflation in commodity prices, including food, fuel, shelter materials and NFIs, has become a major concern to partners in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable people.
• The Nutrition Cluster is facing possible pipeline breaks for both preventative and therapeutic nutrition supplies due to under-funding and taxation issues. Resolution of taxation issues for humanitarian supplies is an urgent priority.
• Funding for agriculture support to vulnerable farmers is a priority for food security partners with fears that this lack of investment in livelihoods assistance could lead to food unavailability and unaffordability in rural areas.
• Funding has been secured for 270 out of the 550 IDP camp longhouses that need immediate reconstruction in Rakhine. However, there remains a $2.4 million funding gap to repair the remaining 281 longhouses as the monsoon season arrives.
• The funding situation for 2022 is now dire with the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) only 10 per cent funded, 5 months into the year, leaving a gap of US$740m (FTS). All clusters are seriously underfunded, threatening their ability to respond to the growing needs and gaps in response.
SITUATION OVERVIEW
During the reporting period, various parts of Myanmar have witnessed an escalation in fighting, further entrenching the already fragile humanitarian situation. The impact on civilians is worsening daily with frequent indiscriminate attacks and incidents involving explosive hazards, including landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs). According to UN figures, the number of IDPs people since the 2021 military takeover s now exceeds 694,300, bringing the overall number of displaced people across the country to more than one million. 2 Thousands of IDPs who have already fled their homes are being forced to move for a second or third time. An estimated 40,200 people have crossed the borders into neighbouring countries since the takeover.3 More than 12,700 civilian properties, including houses, churches, monasteries, and schools are estimated to have been destroyed during hostilities, although figures are difficult to verify.4 This will make IDP returns more difficult even if the situation improves. Consequently, complex needs are surfacing, requiring immediate humanitarian responses to save lives and protect those affected, supporting them to live in dignified conditions.
In addition to this constant risk and fear they are enduring daily, thousands of people across the country are living in distress due to the increasing price of essential commodities, including food and fuel, partly due to the conflict in Ukraine which has impacted global supplies. The price of diesel soared by 20 per cent from February to March 2022, and by another seven per cent from March to April 2022.5 On average, as of mid-April 2022, fuel prices are nearly two and a half times higher than February 2021. 6 This inflation has affected people’s purchasing power and is starting to impact on the work of several clusters, particularly food security and shelter, who depend on commodities to implement their humanitarian programming. Some clusters are facing issues with their suppliers who are no longer honoring contracts because of the price increases.
On top of the continued fighting, strong storms and heavy rain have already hit coastal areas of the country, mainly lowlying areas in Rakhine, Kayin, Kachin and Shan states, since April this year, causing varying degrees of damage to civilian structures, including houses and shelters. This has further compounded pre-existing vulnerabilities of the affected people, particularly IDPs in protracted displacement sites. Humanitarian actors, including local partners, have immediately reached affected families, where possible repairing the damage and providing tarpaulins and emergency NFIs, but the needs far exceed existing resources, capacities and access. Preparedness efforts by both humanitarian actors and the de facto authorities have been underway since the first quarter of 2022 (see details in article below). More funding is critically needed to ensure efficient responses in the event of a wide-scale natural disaster.
Across the country, humanitarian actors, including the UN, INGOs, and local partners, continue responding to both preexisting and emerging needs wherever possible, providing critical life-saving assistance in spite of the constrained operational environment and limited funding. As of the end of the first quarter of 2022, 2.6 million people had been reached with humanitarian assistance. This represents 41 per cent of the people targeted (6.2 million) in the 2022 HRP7 demonstrating the humanitarian community’s capacity to scale-up logistically when access and funding are available.
The funding situation for 2022 is now dire with the Humanitarian Response Plan only 10 per cent funded, 5 months into the year, leaving a gap of US$740m (FTS). The consequences will be grave if this level of underfunding continues in the remainder of 2022. Humanitarian partners will be forced to cut back on their support at a time when this assistance is needed the most, particularly as the monsoon season is just getting underway..."
Source/publisher:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (New York) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-05-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Human Rights and international relations, Public Health
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
732.9 KB
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Description:
"Highlights:
• The conflict in Myanmar has caused many areas to become contaminated with landmines and explosive remnants of war, with the number and frequency of casualties propelling Myanmar into becoming one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. UNICEF is protecting children from this risk by ensuring that Explosive Ordnance Risk Education is integrated across all relevant sectors of its humanitarian response.
• As of 23 May, a reported 694,300 civilians have been displaced nationally by the conflict, more than double that of the figure of 320,900 at the end of 2021.
• June will mark the traditional start of the academic year, and safe access to education for all children remains an urgent priority across the conflictaffected areas.
• The reporting period usually sees the onset of water shortages, especially in Rakhine. To ensure an uninterrupted water supply for internally displaced people (IDPs) and the host communities, UNICEF has initiated a scarcity response to meet the daily water needs of 28,078 IDPs in Pauktaw in Sittwe, and at Ah Agnu IDP site in Meybon township.
Funding Overview and Partnerships
The UNICEF Myanmar Country Office is appealing for US$ 151.4 million to respond to the multi-sectoral humanitarian needs of the targeted 1.1 million children in Myanmar in 2022. The Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview estimates that, in 2022, a total of 14.4 million people are in need of assistance, including 5 million children. UNICEF wishes to express its deep gratitude to all public and private sector donors for the contributions and pledges received, which have made the current response possible. UNICEF would especially like to thank the generous support received this year from the governments of Japan, Norway, Denmark and the United Nations office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA). These funds will contribute to delivering services to affected populations, notably for Child Protection, Water Sanitation and Hygiene, Education, Health and Nutrition programmes and responses. Although 19 per cent of the UNICEF Humanitarian Action for Children requirements were received, the funding gap of 81 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. Continued donor support is critical to continue scaling up the response. UNICEF is thankful for the commitment and dedication of all its partners and colleagues in Myanmar who continue to stay and deliver lifesaving assistance to affected children and women, amidst an incredibly challenging context.
Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs
Children in Myanmar continue to face unprecedented needs, compounded by the national political, security and humanitarian crises, limiting access to services. During the last few weeks, the conflict has continued to deteriorate in the northwest regions of Sagaing, Magway and Chin, with armed clashes between the Myanmar Armed Forces, local People’s Defence Forces and Chinland Defence Forces, resulting in an escalation in the displacement of children and their families. At the end of 2021, more than 320,900 civilians had reportedly been displaced. However, in the first quarter of 2022 this figure has more than doubled and, as of 23 May, approximately 694,300 people have been internally displaced in Myanmar since the military coup, with nearly 49 per cent of them (336,600 people) within the Sagaing region. The support from humanitarian partners to civilians in new areas of conflict remains limited to urban zones, as constraints on access to rural conflict-affected regions are resulting in lower coverage there.
The Mine Action Area of Responsibility (AoR) reports that, as a direct result of the conflict, many areas have become contaminated with landmines and explosive remnants of war. The consequent number and frequency of casualties have propelled Myanmar into becoming one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. To protect children against these risks, the Mine Action AoR is working towards supporting the integration and mainstreaming of Explosive Ordnance Risk Education across sectors of the humanitarian response, in order to teach children and adults how to identify, report and protect themselves against explosive hazards. Although a recent survey in Rakhine has highlighted the dangers of mines and explosive remnants of war in six villages, a national mapping has demonstrated the gaps across all regions in mine action interventions.
To reach the children in dire need of assistance, improved and unimpeded access is necessary, including secured physical access, reduced bureaucratic impediments, lessened scrutiny, functioning telecommunication networks and alleviated banking restrictions. Nevertheless, UNICEF and its partners continue to scale up their response and adapt their activities through prioritizing strengthening capacity and tailoring programming modalities to cope with the security risks and severe travel restrictions..."
Source/publisher:
UN Children's Fund (Myanmar) via Reliefweb (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-05-31
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-31
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar, Public Health, Human Rights and international relations
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
404.86 KB (8 pages) - Original version
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Description:
"The MIMU 5W gathers inputs from participating humanitarian and development agencies on Who is doing What,
Where, When and for Whom across Myanmar. It is normally conducted every 6 months and provides information on agencies’ activities at various levels (village/village tract/township, and IDP camps).
In total, 209 agencies participated in the March 2022 round of the MIMU 5W, providing information on their humanitarian and development activities across 22 sectors and 157 sub-sectors as defined by technical/sector working groups. 5W reporting is quite comprehensive for projects of INGO, UN and Red Cross agencies, but there is underreporting of activities for local NGOs and CBOs, since not all are participating. Note that Agencies must report to a sufficiently detailed level (village or camp level) for their work to be reflected fully in the MIMU 5W products.
This Overview describes projects reported as under implementation in Kachin as of March 25th, 2022. Further information on planned and recently completed projects is available from the 5W dataset, which can be requested by 5W Partners. Projects under implementation can also be viewed on our interactive dashboards - 5W Township Dashboard and 5W Village Tract Dashboard..."
Source/publisher:
Myanmar Information Management Unit (Myanmar) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-05-19
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-19
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Climate Change - Burma/Myanmar: general, Education in Burma/Myanmar - general, Public Health, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
3.35 MB
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Description:
"To understand the effects of COVID-19 and political instability on Myanmar’s crop trade sector, a phone survey of commodity traders was conducted in March 2022 with an expanded sample of 456 traders in 14 states and regions.
Key Findings
• More than 90 percent of traders reported increased transport costs, up by 74 percent on average over the past year, driven by fuel price increases of 168 percent. Transport cost increases were aggravated by curfews and check points related to the security situation. As a consequence, 30 percent of traders experienced difficulty contracting transport services.
• Compared to the same period last year farm prices have increased for maize (78 percent), pulses (41 percent to 55 percent) and oilseeds (27 percent to 32 percent) due to export demand and depreciation of the Myanmar Kyat. This will provide incentives to farmers in the Dry Zone and Hilly/Mountainous areas. Paddy prices at the end of March have increased by a lesser amount (23 percent), not enough to offset increases in the cost of chemical fertilizer (expected to rise by 50 percent in the coming monsoon season) and mechanization services.
• Higher farmgate prices combined with modestly increased trading volumes imply greater working capital requirements for traders. Only a small proportion have increased their lending balance sheets given uncertainty about length of time for repayment.
Looking Ahead
• Consumer prices will continue to rise steeply due to higher farm gate prices and transportation costs. Vegetable oil prices will be very high due to the combination of the Ukraine conflict and the Indonesian palm oil export ban. Increases in chickpea prices limit the options for poor consumers to maintain protein consumption by substituting away from meat and eggs to pulses. The majority of Myanmar households are now vulnerable to protein deficiency and the majority of children to Vitamin A deficiency.
• The March 2022 survey round took place before the new foreign exchange restrictions were implemented, requiring exporters to convert all foreign exchange earnings into Myanmar Kyat within 24 hours at the official rate. The difference between the official and parallel market rate is effectively an export tax that will be passed on to farmers, reducing their profitability. This can be avoided by allowing agricultural exporters to maintain foreign currency accounts..."
Source/publisher:
International Food Policy Research Institute (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-05-19
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-19
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
690.04 KB
Local URL:
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Description:
"Key findings
Based on a survey of 422 food vendors in rural and urban areas and in all state/regions of Myanmar in March 2022, it is found that:
Over the last year (comparing March 2022 to March 2021), (nominal) food costs have increased by 41 percent overall and by 39 and 42 percent in urban and rural areas, respectively. Nominal price increases for most foods range from 30 to 50 percent, including protein and micronutrient rich foods.
Rice prices have increased the least of any reported food over the last year. However, a 23 percent increase in this primary staple, which accounts for about 60 percent of caloric intake and 20 percent of household food expenditure, is concerning.
The majority of vendors report challenges related to inputs including high prices of raw materials or supplies (78 percent), high fuel or transportation costs (81 percent), and disrupted access to energy/electricity (57 percent). In the three months before the survey, 62 percent of vendors report one of these challenges as their single greatest adversities.
More than a third of vendors considered either restrictions on mobility (26 percent) or insecurity (10 percent) to have been the greatest obstacles, in the past month..."
Source/publisher:
International Food Policy Research Institute (Washington, D.C.) via "Reliefweb" (New York)
Date of publication:
2022-05-19
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-19
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Category:
Agriculture in Burma/Myanmar: general and research, Food Security and nutrition in Burma/Myanmar
Language:
Format :
pdf
Size:
765.01 KB
Local URL:
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Description:
"Providing a daily meal for a family of 10 is a daunting task for Ma Khine who lives in an impoverished neighborhood in the outskirts of Yangon city. With six children and four adults, including a disabled family member, the household requires almost 4 kilos of rice per day. The family of 10 rely on the oldest son who earns 8,000 Kyat a day – equal to or less than 5 USD – and this money is then managed by Ma Khine to provide for the entire family. With the rising prices of basic food items across the country, and the lack of financial income within the family, borrowing money just to buy essential food items has become an unfortunate practice for Ma Khine.
“As the price for food and other essential items continue to rise, we have no choice but to borrow money on difficult days. Most days, we cannot pay back the loan and this leads to an increase in the the interest. And when we cannot settle the interest, it adds to the principal”, explained Ma Khine, who is the head of the household.
The situation for Ma Khine’s family mirrors that of many in the Yangon Region where the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is providing urgent food and nutrition assistance to reduce the impact of rising food insecurity. The concurrent health and political crises have also had a devastating effect, previously unseen in urban and peri urban areas of Yangon and Mandalay.
The right to food is a human right and everyone deserves the right to adequate food and the right to be free from hunger. Therefore, with the support of donors, including Australia, Denmark, Italy, Israel, Japan, Republic of Korea, Sweden, and other private donors, WFP has reached 1.7 million people from across Yangon and Mandalay, many of whom share similar stories like Ma Khine.
WFP’s assistance also extends to children, and the team on the ground has delivered Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food (RUSF) to more than 46,900 children aged 6-59 months, living in four townships in Yangon’s peri-urban area. These food deliveries help prevent acute malnutrition and are part of WFP’s Blanket Supplementary Feeding Programme (BSFP).
This nutrition support aims to immediately offset the risk of malnutrition among children as they receive reduced meals or less nutritious food affected by the increased food insecurity.
Vulnerable children under the age of 5 are provided with a monthly ration of RUSF containing 15 sachets. One RUSF sachet is consumed every other day and is primarily for children. The supplementary food is eaten directly from the sachet without the need to dilute, mix or cook.
WFP remains committed to support people of Myanmar as they face high burdens of increasing food insecurity and malnutrition..."
Source/publisher:
United Nations Myanmar
Date of publication:
2022-05-16
Date of entry/update:
2022-05-16
Grouping:
Individual Documents
Language:
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