Bi-weekly Update on the Current Situation in Myanmar
(16-12-2024 to 31-12-2024)
(47) months ago, on 1 February 2021, the military junta attempted an illegal coup, toppled the civilian government, and unlawfully detained State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint, and other senior members of the civilian government, parliamentarians and activists. Since then, the military junta has ignored the will of the people of Myanmar, placed the country in turmoil, and made people suffer tremendously as a result of its inhumane and disproportionate acts.
As of 31 December 2024, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), the military has ruthlessly killed 6,092 people and arrested another 28,082 people. 21,485 people remain in detention and 170 people have been sentenced to death, including 119 post-coup death row prisoners and 44 in absentia since 1 February 2021, when the military unleashed systematic and targeted attacks and violence against innocent civilians. Four democracy activists who were sentenced to death were executed by the military junta in July 2022.
Crimes committed Across Myanmar by the Junta Troops and its affiliates
Crimes perpetrated by the junta troops and its associates, militias across Myanmar include extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and detentions, torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearances, and the targeting of civilians, including children. These atrocities have led to widespread displacement, destruction of civilian properties, and a climate of fear and insecurity among the civilian population. The junta's widespread and systematic tactics of brutality are aimed at suppressing dissent and maintaining its grip on power, regardless of the human cost and violations of international law.
According to data collected by the AAPP, from 1 to 27 December, 2024, (63) people in total; (24) women, (38) men and (1) LGBT person, were killed by the junta across the country, including (8) children under the age of 18. Their identities have been verified. Among the deaths, Mandalay Region recorded the highest number of fatalities, totalling (15) people, and (28) people were killed by the junta’s airstrikes marking the highest cause of death.
In addition, during the stated period, (15) people in total; (3) women and (12) men, were arrested by the junta across the country. Among them, Yangon Region recorded the highest number of arrests with (7) people. Moreover, during the stated period, (14) women and (55) men; (69) people in total, have been given prison sentences under specious charges by courts subservient to the junta and are still detained in prisons across the country. Sagaing Region records the highest number of sentences, totalling (60) people.
According to the data collected by AAPP, from 1 January to 31 December, 2024, (781) people in total; (1) LGBT, (213) women and (567) men, were arrested arbitrarily by the junta across the country. Among them, (759) people in total; (1) LGBT, (212) women and (546) men, are still detained. Of those arrests, Yangon Region records the highest number of arrests, with (208) people, followed by (125) in Mandalay Region.
In 2024 alone, the junta’s ruthless actions led to the deaths of (406) people who were killed after being arrested in various parts of Burma. Among these, (12) died in the junta’s detention centers, including police stations, (15) died in interrogation centers, and (31) died in prisons. However, the actual number of deaths may be higher than the recorded figures.
War Crimes, Crimes against Humanity and Mass Murders Committed by the Military Junta
Military Junta's Airstrikes Kill Five Civilians Including Children in Sagaing Region
Myanmar Now reported that airstrikes launched by the military junta killed five civilians, including two children, in Kani Township, Sagaing Region on the night of 16 December 2024, marking another incident of indiscriminate attacks on civilian populations.
According to local sources, the attacks began around 9 pm, targeting two riverside villages, Kyauk Hle Kar and Nat Gyi, along the Chindwin River. While Nat Gyi Village, previously abandoned due to repeated attacks, reported no casualties, the airstrikes on Kyauk Hle Kar resulted in five civilian deaths and ten injuries.
Among those killed were two children - 11-year-old Maung Chit and 14-year-old Ma Noe Noe, raising serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian law protecting civilians, particularly children, during armed conflicts.
Military Junta Destroys Villages in Northern Mandalay Region, Forcing Mass Displacement
Myanmar Now reported that the military junta has been systematically destroying entire villages in western Madaya Township, northern Mandalay Region, following their capture of the area on 23 November. This widespread destruction of civilian property potentially constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
On 18 December 2024, at least five villages have been subjected to deliberate destruction, with nearly 1,000 houses burned. The systematic nature of these attacks follows a pattern where troops first occupy villages, loot civilian properties, and then deliberately destroy them through arson.
Local sources confirmed that U Dein, Sin Kone, Po Wa, Shin Hla, and Mway Pu Thein villages have been extensively damaged by fire. Three villages recaptured by the Mandalay People's Defence Force (MDY-PDF) in early December - Wun Su, Htein Pin Sauk, and Ywar Thit - have remained intact. A resident from Wetlet Township, Sagaing Region, who assists displaced persons, highlighted the particular challenges facing those from western Madaya Township in accessing humanitarian aid.
In Thabeikkyin Township, similar destruction has been reported in Twin Nge village following its capture on 5 December. The village holds strategic importance due to its location at the intersection of major routes connecting Mandalay Region to northern Shan State and Kachin State.
Military Junta Airstrikes Hit Thandwe
Military junta airstrikes on Thandwe, Rakhine State, killed one civilian and injured six others on 22 December 2024, according to local sources.
According to the local sources, junta’s Jet fighter targeted Thandwe and nearby Tha Mote Chaung Village around 3pm. Phoe Kyaw, 40, from Thandwe's Ward 4, was killed, while three others in the town and three in Tha Mote Chaung sustained injuries.
Thandwe, under Arakan Army (AA) control since September, had maintained relative stability with functioning markets and returning residents. A displaced woman from Thandwe told that their town has returned to normal, except on days when it has been hit by airstrikes.
Previous airstrikes on 27 September killed 14 displaced persons sheltering in the town hall and injured at least 25 others. The town's general hospital has also suffered damage from air raids.
The AA now controls 13 of Rakhine State's 17 townships following their November 2023 offensive. In Sittwe, security measures have intensified following the AA's capture of the Western Regional Military Command headquarters in Ann Township on 19 December. They have arrested at least 30 displaced people, including teenagers, from 10 monasteries, reported a person sheltering at a Sittwe monastery.
Military Junta Intensifies Attacks on Civilian Areas in Mandalay Region
Myanmar Now reported that the military junta continues targeting civilian areas in Mandalay Region's resistance strongholds, including locations without recent combat activity.
An airstrike on 25 December in Za Yat Gyi Village, Taungtha Township, injured two women and damaged a school. Local sources reported that the attack involved both conventional aircraft and a motor-equipped paraglider. This is the first time they attacked them in this way. According to a local villager, it is assumed that they might be resorting to this technology to save on aviation fuel.
In western Madaya Township, which fell to the military junta in late November, systematic destruction of villages continues. Local sources reported that Mway Thit Tall Village has endured six attacks over the past month. All the villages are gradually disappearing. The military junta is setting them on fire in order to quell the resistance groups.
Za Yat Gyi is among several villages previously targeted by the military junta over alleged connections to the People's Defence Force and other resistance groups as a form of collective punishment.
Human Rights Abuses
International Insurance Companies Fund Military Junta through Treasury Bonds
Tax and financial records reveal that international insurance companies have been purchasing treasury bonds from Myanmar's military junta, with transactions totalling nearly 50 billion kyat (US $24 million) in September 2021 alone, Myanmar Now reported.
Key purchasers include Hong Kong-based AIA Group Limited and Japanese firms Tokio Marine and Nippon Life Insurance. The latter two maintain joint ventures with Grand Guardian Insurance, owned by Shwe Taung Group chaired by Aik Tun.
While these documented purchases represent less than one percent of the military junta's 5.64 trillion-kyat military expenditures in 2023-24, the total revenue could be significantly higher. With 27 domestic and international insurance companies potentially making similar legally required purchases, annual revenue could reach several hundred billions kyat.
A former bank official and chair of the Yangon Parliament's Public Accounts Committee, Tint Lwin, criticized this practice: Treasury bonds and bills are sold on one side, while paper money is continuously printed on the other, fuelling hyperinflation and burdening the people with soaring prices and shortages of goods. Furthermore, the funds raised through these methods are used to finance war crimes, including the brutal killing of innocent civilians.
Insurance industry sources indicate companies have limited investment options under Myanmar law, which mandates treasury bond purchases. However, the National Unity Government stated on 27 June that these transactions are illegal as the military council lacks legitimate governing authority.
LGBTI+ Activist and Political Prisoner Dies after Denied Medical Care in Detention
Myanmar Now reported that Bhon Bhon, a 33-year-old political prisoner and LGBTI+ activist, died from kidney disease on 25 December in Sagaing Region after being denied essential medical treatment.
The Political Prisoners Network Myanmar (PPNM) spokesperson Thike Tun Oo told Myanmar Now: Since first discovering the illness, he has requested medical treatment. But the prison authorities said “No treatment is needed. No need for hospitalisation. Just hook him up with an IV drip and he will get better”. That is how they handled it.
Bhon Bhon was initially arrested in early 2021 for opposing the military junta and sentenced to two years imprisonment under Section (505) (a) of the Penal Code. After his release in 2022, he co-founded PPNM and continued advocating for political prisoners' rights. He was rearrested on 24 February 2024 in Monywa Township. When he was arrested, he was beaten, handcuffed, and his feet were chained before he was taken away, Thike Tun Oo revealed.
Despite receiving a ten-year sentence on three charges, Bhon Bhon was held at Monywa Police Station for ten months in crowded conditions that contributed to his declining health. His lower body became weak. His health deteriorated, Thike Tun Oo explained. PPNM estimates that over 20 political prisoners have died due to neglect since 1 February 2021, highlighting systematic denial of medical care in detention facilities.
Actions of Resistance Forces against the Junta
AA Takes Control of Taungup Township Following Capture of Strategic Military Base
According to Arakan Princess, an online media outlet, the Arakan Army (AA) has secured full control of Taungup Township after capturing a strategic military base on 14 December 2024. AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha confirmed to local media that they successfully took control of Sakakha-5 at 4:10 pm, referring to the Military Operations Command 5 (MOC-5) headquarters located on the outskirts of Taungup. The significance of this capture extends beyond the command centre’s size, as Taungup occupies a crucial intersection connecting Yangon to Ann, a strategically important town in central Rakhine State.
The AA initiated its offensive in Rakhine State in November 2023 as part of Operation 1027, a coordinated campaign by the Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the AA, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and the Tang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
On 8 December, the AA gained control of the last defensive outpost in Maungdaw Township near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border after nearly two months of fighting. During this operation, the AA took into custody dozens of individuals, including many Rohingya who were reportedly subjected to forced conscription.
The AA currently maintains control over 12 of Rakhine State's 17 townships, with active conflicts in three others. Only Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung on Cheduba Island remain outside their control. In response to the AA's advances, indiscriminate airstrikes were launched on Taungup, resulting in two civilian casualties and at least 19 injuries, constituting potential violations of international humanitarian law. A subsequent airstrike on 6 December damaged a school, raising further concerns about targeting civilian infrastructure. Previous airstrikes in October had already claimed multiple civilian lives, including children.
AA Captures Western Regional Military Command Headquarters in Rakhine State
The Arakan Army (AA) has taken control of the Western Regional Military Command (RMC) headquarters in Ann Township, Rakhine State, on 20 December, AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha confirmed to Myanmar Now.
During the operation, the AA captured two military commanders - Brig-Gen Kyaw Kyaw Than and Brig-Gen Thaung Tun - who led the Western RMC. This development follows the AA's capture of Taungup two days earlier, as they continue operations in Gwa, a frontier town bordering Ayeyarwady Region. With these advances, the AA now controls most of Rakhine State, with only Sittwe, Kyaukphyu port town, and Manaung Island remaining under military junta control.
The capture of the Western RMC headquarters in Ann represents a significant strategic loss for the military junta, as it controlled crucial routes connecting Rakhine State to Magway and Bago regions. Speaking to Myanmar Now on 22 December, political analyst, Phe Than noted: If Gwa were to fall, the fighting between the allied forces and the military junta could potentially spread across the border into Ayeyarwady Region.
AA Releases Video of Captured General Urging Military Junta to End Rakhine State Operations
The Arakan Army (AA) published video footage on 26 December 2024 showing captured Brig-Gen Kyaw Kyaw Than, commander of the Western Regional Military Command (RMC), calling for an end to military operations and aerial attacks on civilians in Rakhine State.
I would like to say to the senior general to admit defeat and stop conducting aerial assaults and atrocities on civilians, stated the general, who appeared in civilian clothing addressing the camera.
Speaking to active military personnel, he highlighted logistical challenges: It is difficult for reinforcements to reach us due to geographical barriers in Rakhine State. Do not risk your life for these incompetent leaders. Surrender to the Arakan Army.
The general revealed that the Western RMC headquarters in Ann Township fell due to prolonged siege tactics resulting in critical supply shortages. His capture occurred alongside hundreds of others during the AA's seizure of the command center. Earlier this month, the AA also captured Brig-Gen Thurein Tun, head of Military Operations Command 15, during operations in Maungdaw Township.
The 13-minute video showcases AA military operations and medical treatment of injured soldiers, contrasting with images circulating on pro-military propaganda channels alleging executions of surrendered soldiers.
The AA now controls 13 of Rakhine State's 17 townships and Paletwa Township in southern Chin State. The capture of the Western RMC headquarters severed crucial supply routes connecting Rakhine State to Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Magway regions. The military junta maintains control only of Sittwe, Kyaukphyu port town, and Manaung Island.
KNU Reclaims Historic Headquarters after Three Decades
The Karen National Union (KNU) has recaptured its historic headquarters at Manerplaw along the Thai border, marking a significant development in their struggle for Karen rights, KNU leader Saw Thamain Tun informed AFP on 17 December 2024.
Despite attempts to retake the base using drones and aerial bombardment, KNU forces successfully maintained control of the strategic location. The site holds deep historical significance for the Karen people, with approximately 100 KNU soldiers laid to rest there.
Manerplaw served as the KNU's central command post in their prolonged campaign for Karen minority rights until 1995. The base also provided sanctuary to various opposition politicians. Following internal divisions within the predominantly Christian KNU, the military junta and a breakaway Buddhist faction seized control of the base in 1995, forcing thousands to seek refuge in Thailand.
Since 1 February 2021, the KNU has engaged in continuous resistance against the military junta, providing shelter and training to other1 resistance groups. Saw Thamain Tun emphasized the historical importance of Manerplaw to the Karen people.
Four Mon Armed Groups Move towards Military Cooperation to Combat Junta Rule
Four Mon armed resistance groups announced plans on for joint military operations, signalling a potential move towards unification, according to their joint statement on 19 December 2024.
The Mon Liberation Army (MLA), Mon National Liberation Army-Anti-Dictatorship (MNLA-AD), Mon State Defence Force (MSDF), and Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF) will coordinate their efforts against the military junta. Speaking to Myanmar Now, Banyar Min Kan Si from the MLA emphasized: Operating as a unified force is more effective than working separately. It is also more natural. That is why we have decided to establish the principle of a single Mon army.
The MLA and MSDF emerged after 1 February 2021, while the MNLA-AD formed in February 2024 as a split from the NMSP's armed wing. The MSRF operates in both Mon State and Tanintharyi Region. Nai Din Pala Hongsar, head of the defence department of the Mon State Federal Council, explained that while complete unification requires time, coordinated operations will begin immediately. Dr. Thiri Mon Chan noted that current challenges including limited collaboration and unequal access to weapons may diminish as the groups progress toward unification.
Chin Resistance Forces Secure Control of Southern Chin State
The Chin Brotherhood Alliance has captured two strategic towns, establishing complete control over southern Chin State while operations continue in the north, according to their statement released on 22 December.
Myanmar Now reported that the coalition of ethnic Chin forces took control of Kanpetlet on 22 December after military junta forces withdrew on 21 December. A spokesperson for the alliance told Myanmar Now: the enemy soldiers abandoned the town on December 21 as our troops were preparing to launch attacks. We are currently pursuing them.
The alliance also announced their capture of Infantry Battalion (IB) 274 base near Mindat on 21 December, located less than two miles west of the town. This marked the complete liberation of Mindat, situated approximately 44 miles north of Kanpetlet. At least 15 political prisoners held in Mindat and Kanpetlet have been freed by resistance forces. The alliance secured significant military assets, including approximately 160 captured military junta troops from IB 274 along with weapons and ammunition.
While local residents welcomed these developments, safety concerns persist. A Mindat Township resident expressed: We are overwhelmed with joy as we look forward to returning home. Many others feel the same. Finally, we can feel the sense of freedom. But the threat of airstrikes makes it too dangerous to go back at the moment.
Following these captures, airstrikes targeted residential areas in both towns on 22 December. A representative of Mindat Township's People Administrative Team told that landmine clearing operations must be completed before civilians can safely return.
In northern Chin State, resistance forces continue operations near Hakha, Thantlang, Tedim and Falam. The alliance has been engaged in combat for Falam's control for over a month, having secured its police stations, hospital, and administration office.
Activities of the National Unity Government and Ethnic Groups
Myanmar's National Unity Government Bank to Enter Global Crypto Market, Reports Success in Bond Repayments
The National Unity Government's Spring Development Bank is preparing to list on international crypto currency exchanges, according to an announcement made by government spokesperson U Nay Phone Latt during the press briefing on 11 December 2024. The move comes as the bank reports successful completion of its second Initial Coin Offering (ICO) campaign, which raised approximately 13 million USD under the "New Wave, New Home" initiative.
The government has also begun processing refunds for expired bond contracts, with 2.7 million USD already returned to investors, demonstrating the institution's commitment to meeting its financial obligations.
"This represents both a financial and political milestone," U Nay Phone Latt stated during the briefing. He emphasized the significance of public participation in the ICO round, which exceeded expectations, describing it as "a victory for the people" that reinforces the National Unity Government's legitimacy.
NUG Condemns Fatal Military Airstrike on Sagaing Villages, Schools Targeted
The Ministry of Education of the National Unity Government has issued a strong condemnation following a military airstrike that killed five civilians, including three students, in Sagaing Region's Kani Township. The 16 December 2024 aerial attack targeted Nat Gyi and Kyauk Hlae Khar villages, striking areas with no active combat operations.
In a statement released on 19 December 2024, the ministry emphasized that the deliberate targeting of schools and civilian residences constitutes violations of multiple international laws, including the Geneva Conventions and UN Security Council resolutions, as well as humanitarian and human rights laws.
The National Unity Government has committed to thoroughly documenting these incidents and pursuing justice for the child victims through all available international mechanisms. This attack represents the latest incident of civilian casualties in Sagaing Region, with particular concern raised over the targeting of educational facilities and students.
NUG Calls for Military Defections, Reports Growing Numbers Joining People's Defence Force
The National Unity Government's spokesperson, U Nay Phone Latt, issued a direct appeal on 10 December 2024 to Myanmar military personnel to abandon their posts and join the People's Defence Force.
"Now is the time to find an honorable path, away from Min Aung Hlaing's oppressive regime," U Nay Phone Latt stated during the press briefing, urging military officials, officers, and soldiers to break from what he described as a "brutal dictatorship."
The government has established a People's Embrace committee to facilitate the transition of military and police defectors. According to official figures, 475 individuals, including personnel up to the rank of Deputy Colonel, sought refuge between January and November 2024.
The total number of defections over three years has reached approximately 15,000, comprising around 3,700 military personnel and 11,000 police officers. The spokesperson confirmed that the committee provides support to both defectors and their families.
The initiative aims to minimize casualties while advancing the revolution through a reformed security sector aligned with federal democratic principles, according to the government spokesperson.
Response of the International Community
ICJ Receives Ireland's Declaration to Intervene in Myanmar Genocide Case
Ireland has filed a declaration to intervene in the ongoing genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), becoming the eighth state to join the proceedings. The declaration was submitted to the Court's Registry on December 20, 2024, under Article 63 of the ICJ Statute.
In its filing, Ireland bases its right to intervene on its status as a party to the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. The country specifically addresses Articles I, III, IV, V, and VI of the Convention, while also noting that Article II's interpretation may be relevant to understanding these provisions.
The case, initially brought by The Gambia against Myanmar, focuses on alleged violations of the Genocide Convention. Ireland's declaration includes the country's own interpretation of Articles I, II, and III of the Convention.
Ireland joins seven other intervening states in the proceedings, marking a significant level of international engagement in this case concerning the alleged genocide.
Singapore Calls for End to Myanmar Violence at ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting
Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan has urged an immediate cessation of violence against civilians in Myanmar during the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Bangkok. He emphasized that the release of Aung San Suu Kyi remains essential for achieving national reconciliation in the country.
During his address, Balakrishnan expressed concern over the minimal progress in implementing ASEAN's Five-Point Consensus, calling for enhanced cooperation between Myanmar's military and Laos' special envoy to advance these agreed-upon points.
Singapore pledged its continued support for ASEAN's initiatives, particularly as Malaysia prepares to assume the chairmanship. The country stressed its dedication to finding a lasting peaceful solution while ensuring that the Myanmar crisis does not impede ASEAN's broader regional integration and international partnerships.
The statement reinforces ASEAN's ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the situation in Myanmar through regional cooperation and dialogue, while maintaining the organization's broader developmental goals.
UK Leaders Rally for Aung San Suu Kyi's Release amid Myanmar Crisis
Senior British political figures, including Andrew Mitchell and Sir Alan Duncan, have stepped up calls for the release of Myanmar's former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, highlighting ongoing human rights violations and her continued detention by the military regime.
The campaign for her freedom has gained momentum despite lingering criticism over her earlier stance during the Rohingya crisis and her 2019 ICJ appearance defending military actions. Lord Hague and other former UK foreign secretaries have drawn parallels between her current situation and Nelson Mandela's imprisonment, characterizing her as a political prisoner held on manufactured charges.
The renewed British advocacy for Aung San Suu Kyi's freedom underscores growing international concern about Myanmar's deteriorating political situation and continued military abuses. These calls from prominent UK figures aim to refocus global attention on the broader crisis unfolding in Myanmar.
Thailand Establishes Emergency Center as Cholera Spreads Near Myanmar Border
Thailand's Public Health Ministry has activated a forward emergency operations center in Tak province following a cholera outbreak in Myanmar's Shwe Kokko town, where 300 cases and two deaths have been reported.
The emergency center was established in response to the outbreak's proximity to the Thai border, with two suspected cases already under observation in Tak hospitals. Health authorities have mobilized local volunteers, community leaders, and drugstores to assist in surveillance and case reporting.
Thai officials are conducting outreach to Myanmar workers in border areas, providing education on cholera prevention and encouraging prompt reporting of symptoms, particularly watery diarrhea. All suspected cases will undergo testing for cholera.
The emergency operations center is also evaluating medical supplies in Tak province, particularly diarrhea medications, and will request additional resources as needed to contain potential spread of the disease.
UN Expert Welcomes ICC Prosecutor's Arrest Warrant for Min Aung Hlaing and Calls for Swift Action
UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews said that the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor's decision to request an arrest warrant for Min Aung Hlaing represents a significant step toward accountability for crimes committed against the Rohingya population after his meetings with Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan in The Hague.
Andrews emphasized that the move to request an arrest warrant for Min Aung Hlaing was a critical advancement in the pursuit of justice. He stressed the urgency of moving forward with additional warrants, calling for full governmental support in their enforcement.
The UN Special Rapporteur highlighted that Min Aung Hlaing faces accusations not only of atrocity crimes against the Rohingya but also bears responsibility for ongoing war crimes and crimes against humanity throughout Myanmar. Andrews noted that while this development brings hope to victims of the 2017 attacks against the Rohingya, the ICC's jurisdictional limitations mean the case cannot address the full scope of atrocities committed against the Rohingya or the international crimes committed since February 2021.
Andrews called on governments to support universal jurisdiction cases concerning Myanmar in competent national courts. He also urged ICC State Parties to consider referring the Myanmar situation to the Prosecutor under Article 14 of the Rome Statute, following the National Unity Government's declaration accepting the Court's jurisdiction.
The Special Rapporteur emphasized that the international community must act swiftly. While acknowledging the Prosecutor's decision as an important advancement, he stressed that additional measures are necessary to ensure comprehensive accountability for the extensive crimes committed in Myanmar.
UN Warns of Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Rakhine State
At the UN daily press briefing on 23 December 2024, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Stéphanie Tremblay highlighted the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Rakhine State, where escalating conflict between the Arakan Army and military forces has spread across the region. The conflict, which began in November 2023, now affects 16 out of 17 townships, leaving populations facing severe humanitarian challenges with limited access to essential services.
According to UN humanitarian partners, the ongoing violence has forced an estimated 360,000 people to flee their homes in Rakhine State and neighboring Paletwa Township in southern Chin State. This has brought the total number of displaced persons in Rakhine to nearly 570,000.
UN humanitarian teams noted that the escalating conflict in Rakhine State is part of a broader crisis affecting multiple regions and states across Myanmar. The total number of displaced persons has reached more than 3.5 million - representing an alarming increase of 1.5 million men, women, and children compared to the previous year.
UN also call to uphold the obligations under international humanitarian law, to ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian workers and supplies, and to guarantee unimpeded humanitarian access.
UN Reports Record High Humanitarian Needs in Myanmar for 2025
The United Nations has released its 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) for Myanmar, revealing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis affecting 19.9 million people - over one-third of the country's population.
According to the report, the humanitarian crisis has significantly worsened since February 2021, with 6.3 million children and 7.1 million women among those requiring urgent assistance. The report indicates that approximately 3.5 million people have been forced to flee their homes due to widespread fighting.
The UN assessment shows that 15.2 million people face acute food insecurity, struggling to feed themselves and their families. The report highlights the severe disruption of education and health services, with many facilities on the brink of collapse. Millions lack access to safe shelter and clean drinking water.
The 2025 HNRP outlines a strategy to reach 5.5 million of the most vulnerable people, requiring US$1.1 billion in funding. However, the UN notes that Myanmar remains one of the world's most underfunded humanitarian response plans. As of 6 December 2024, only 34 percent of the required funding for the 2024 HNRP was received.
The funding shortfall in 2024 resulted in approximately 1.4 million prioritized individuals missing out on assistance entirely. Moreover, most of the 3.9 million people who received aid did not get the complete support package needed to address their circumstances.
The report emphasizes the critical role of local and national humanitarian organizations in delivering aid despite significant challenges. These organizations continue their daily efforts to reach those in need across the country. The humanitarian situation has been further complicated by economic instability, with poverty rates returning to 2015 levels, reversing years of development progress. The UN reports widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law across the country.
The UN emphasizes the urgent need for increased international support and resources to address this escalating humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, calling for immediate action to support the most vulnerable populations.
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Date: 31 December 2024
Permanent Mission of Myanmar to the United Nations, New York
