In Myanmar, more than half a million people have been displaced due to intensifying conflict between the military and armed groups.
Commencing in late October, the unrest has spread across over two-thirds of the nation. Armed ethnic militias, alongside the People’s Defence Forces (PDF) supporting the National Unity Government (NUG), are resisting the military, which seized power in February 2021.
According to the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), an estimated 578,000 people have been displaced since October 26, with challenges in confirming figures due to undocumented returns, repeated displacements, and telecommunication blackouts.
During the past six weeks, 363 civilians, including women and children, have reportedly been killed, and 461 others injured.
Ongoing armed clashes, airstrikes, landmines, arbitrary arrests, and roadblocks pose severe risks to civilians, limiting essential goods and people's movement.
Food, shelter, hygiene, basic health, and protection are identified as the most urgent needs in conflict-affected areas. The situation is exacerbated by the existing displacement of two million people since the military coup in February 2021.
Faith-based organizations, local responders, and aid agencies provide critical assistance where access is possible.
However, access challenges, underfunding, and dwindling supplies complicate the situation. The 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan for Myanmar, seeking $887 million to aid the worst-affected 4.5 million people, is only 29% funded.
Responding to the crisis, the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) approved an emergency $7 million allocation for lifesaving aid.
As the conflict escalates, the junta intensifies attacks on civilian communities, resulting in significant casualties. Resistance forces, under "Operation 1027," have gained control of over 20 towns and 300 outposts, according to the parallel National Unity Government (NUG).
