November 27, 2023

Myanmar: humanitarian impacts of recent clashes
Since the end of October 2023, fighting between ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) and the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) has escalated in several states across the country. 

Key considerations:The assault, which the Alliance is calling Operation 1027, appears to have prompted other EAOs and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) to launch attacks in other states, including Sagaing in the northwest; eastern Bago, Kayah, Kayin, Mon, and southern Shan in the southeast; Mandalay in the centre; and Chin, Magway, and Rakhine in the west.
 As at 21 November, the escalation of fighting had displaced more than 286,000 people, killed 187 and injured 246 others in affected states.
 Priority needs include cash assistance, food, shelter, NFIs, basic health services and protection support.
 Partly because of significant access constraints, comprehensive informationon the location, timing, and humanitarian impact of attacks in different states is not available
Read the full report: https://www.acaps.org/en/countries/archives/detail/myanmar-humanitarian-impacts-of-recent-clashes
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Wilson Center

Forced displacement represents one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time. Individuals and families, torn from the fabric of their communities, find themselves navigating a world of uncertainty, often without basic necessities or a clear path to safety. There are currently some 110 million forced displaced, and this number is growing by 10 million each year!

At the heart of this crisis are the political triggers. Armed conflicts, ethnic or religious persecutions, and systemic human rights abuses force millions to flee their homes in terror. Many are displaced within their own national boundaries, while others seek asylum abroad. If these factors change as a result of political shifts at home or the pressures from abroad, they can return to their homes. Forced displacement is thus different from environmentally driven displacement, as victims of climate change may never be able to return to their homes.

The ramifications of any sort of displacement are profound, not just for those directly affected, but also for host communities and countries. Overburdened infrastructures, socio-economic strains, and cultural tensions can arise, necessitating comprehensive strategies to foster harmony and integration. Yet the root causes of forced displacement can be remedied with a concerted focus by local players and international diplomacy.

Organizations like Refugees International play a crucial role in this arena, advocating for the rights and needs of the displaced, conducting on-the-ground assessments, and influencing policymakers to take informed actions. Their relentless work underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency ofinternational cooperation. But they, too, are overwhelmed by the rapid expansion of the crisis.

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), with its core principles centered on the protection of civilians during conflicts, plays a pivotal role in this discourse. Yet, despite clear legal frameworks, compliance remains
inconsistent. This initiative emphasizes the importance of upholding and reinforcing these international standards.

It’s not just about recognizing the problem; it’s about active engagement. We urge governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize the rights and needs of the forced displaced. Through collective efforts, informed policies, and sustained advocacy, we can shift the narrative from passive acknowledgment to proactive intervention.