"Executive Summary Myanmar is experiencing a deepening economic crisis with devastating consequences for its population. Accurate assessments of poverty and vulnerability indices are increasingly needed to evaluate the current crisis. Given the data challenges, it has become essential to investigate proxy indicators that provide a greater understanding of the unfolding situation on the ground in Myanmar. One such proxy indicator that has been applied in other countries, including fragile states like Afghanistan and Yemen, is the analysis of Nighttime Light (NTL). NTL satellite imagery measures the intensity of artificial light emissions, primarily from human settlements and economic activities. With traditional data sources potentially compromised or unavailable, nighttime light analysis offers an alternative means to monitor changes in the country's development landscape. This report leverages NTL satellite imagery to shed light on Myanmar’s development challenges. Key findings of the report include: Localized analysis and perspectives: NTL data offers a strong evidence-base for conducting localized analysis and provides insights into the dynamics and disparities across different administrative levels in Myanmar. Economic Activity: There is a strong relation between NTL intensity and economic activity. From 2013 to 2021, Myanmar experienced a steady increase in NTL, indicative of economic growth and development. The post-2021 decline in NTL intensity (with over 70% of the townships facing a decline) corroborates the severe economic downturn. Urban & Rural Development: NTL data revealed significant urban & rural development trends prior to 2021, with notable growth especially in rural areas. Post-2021, the decline in both urban & rural NTL suggests a regression in overall development. Electricity Access and Consumption: There is a stark discrepancy between the latest 2021 electricity access rate of 72.5% and the projected rate based on UNDP’s NTL data of 48%, showing a difference of 24.5 percentage points. It is argued that Myanmar’s access to affordable and reliable electricity has decreased drastically, as illustrated by the country’s frequent power outages, reduced usage to save costs, and disconnections from the grid due to an inability to pay. Socio-economic Inequality and Human Well-being: NTL intensity variations between regions underscore existing socio-economic inequalities. Regions with higher NTL growth pre-2021 saw improved economic conditions and development, while post-2021, the decline in NTL exacerbated existing inequalities, particularly in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas. A positive correlation was also found between NTL changes and changes of the Household Human Development Index (H-HDI) — a multidimensional indicator combining education, health, and assets — proving NTL can serve as a proxy indicator for H-HDI, and consequently, for human well-being. Conflict and Social Distress: Nearly 90% of the townships with a high vulnerability to conflict experience a drop in NTL, compared to a national average of 70%. This observation underscores that townships with a high vulnerability to conflict are disproportionally affected by electricity outages and declined economic activity. The report highlights the value of NTL as a proxy indicator for assessing the impact of political turmoil, economic decline, and social distress in Myanmar. The human cost to the already vulnerable communities is high. Though a response requires a holistic approach, specific actions regarding electricity access and use can be taken into consideration: enhancing household level coping and adaptation strategies, application of alternative energy sources, and strengthening of local energy governance. It is imperative to continue leveraging innovative data sources for accurate monitoring and targeted interventions. Comprehensive recovery and resilience strategies, informed by high-frequency data, will be essential in fostering localized sustainable development and resilience amidst Myanmar's ongoing adversity..."