MRN calls on the Myanmar military Junta and conflict-affiliated groups to
Humanitarian First: Humanitarian assistance must be provided with the principles of humanity, neutrality, and impartiality.
The powerful earthquake that hit Myanmar on 28 March 2025 has had a massive impact on people’s lives. An estimated 28 million people reside in the six affected regions, spanning Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Shan, and Naypyidaw. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) over 1,000 people have been killed, while another 2,200 people have been injured. Moreover, more than 200 people are missing; however, the total number is expected to be higher than the reported figure.
Currently, many regions, including Bago, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Sagaing, and Shan State, are under a state of emergency declared by the SAC. Basic infrastructure, including the internet and landlines, has been severely damaged. Some countries, such as China, Russia, India, and Thailand, have deployed humanitarian aid workers and resources to support people in the affected areas; however, accessing these areas remains difficult due to the ongoing conflicts. Reports indicate that Mandalay suffered the most damage, with 838 recorded casualties, followed by Naypyidaw with 296 and Sagaing with 265. These numbers, sourced from DVB and Myanmar civil society networks, highlight the devastating impact of the earthquake on communities already struggling with conflict and instability.
Despite the massive earthquake, the SAC continues to carry out military operations, including airstrikes in Sagaing and Shan States. Additionally, some people are reportedly being forcibly transported to join the Junta military during this devastating situation, violating both human rights and international humanitarian law. Two out of the 12 guidelines under the UN General Assembly Resolution 46/182 on Strengthening the Coordination of Humanitarian Emergency Assistance of the United Nations state that humanitarian assistance must be provided in accordance with the principles of humanity, neutrality, and impartiality. Additionally, each state has the responsibility, first and foremost, to take care of the victims of natural disasters and other emergencies occurring on its territory.
MRN calls on the Myanmar military Junta and conflict-affiliated groups to:
- Immediately halt the ceasefire and allow humanitarian support;
- Suspend the use of the Conscription Law and the unlawful, forcible military recruitment;
- Allow the international community to safely access and provide humanitarian assistance to people in the impacted regions;
- Ensure that children, women, elderly, and people with special needs have equal access to humanitarian support.
Myanmar has faced a series of devastating natural disasters that have severely impacted the lives of its people, creating an urgent need for humanitarian response. In times of crisis, humanitarian assistance must remain free from political and military considerations. People in need must receive aid based on urgency and vulnerability, ensuring that no one is left behind.
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