Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF Ted Chaiban issued an urgent international appeal on Thursday, describing the situation as “dire” for children.
From female February 2021 military coupMyanmar has fallen into a deepening crisis.
Fighting between military forces and ethnic armed groups has escalated, with reports of heavy artillery, airstrikes and widespread violence. Ethnic militias have taken control of key towns, while civilians have been caught in the crossfire.
This year alone, At least 650 children were killed or injured according to UNICEF.
The increasing use of deadly weapons in civilian areas – including homes, schools and hospitals – has left children with virtually no safe spaces. Mr. Chaiban said this is “robbing them of their right to safety and security.”
Displacement and destruction
More than 3.4 million people have been displaced nationwide, nearly 40% of whom are children.
In a particularly tragic incident on November 15, an attack on a church compound in Kachin state killed seven children and two adults while they were playing soccer.
“I saw firsthand how vulnerable children and other civilians are in conflict-affected areas,” said Mr. Chaiban, who recently visited Kachin. He called on all parties to the conflict to “support international humanitarian law and protection [children] from such brutal attacks.”
The situation is further aggravated by extreme weather events. Cyclone Yagi, which caused severe flooding and affected more than a million people, left children cut off from health care, education and other vital services.
Access to aid is hindered
Aid delivery efforts face enormous challenges. “Access remains limited due to ongoing armed conflict, insecurity, bureaucratic obstacles and lack of telecommunications and personal protective equipment,” Mr. Chaiban explained.
UNICEF’s 2024 humanitarian appeal is currently less than 25% fundedeven as the need becomes increasingly urgent.
Despite these challenges, UNICEF and humanitarian partners are working tirelessly to provide life-saving services, including health, nutrition and education, especially in frontline areas and difficult to reach.
International action
UNICEF is calling on all parties to the conflict to comply with international humanitarian law, protect civilians and ensure safe passage for those fleeing violence.
Mr. Chaiban called on the international community to increase support – through funding, advocacy and solidarity – to prevent further suffering. “The cost of inaction is too high. Myanmar children cannot wait,” he emphasized.
Tom Andrews, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmarecho this sentiment.
Talk to UN Newshe called on member states to increase pressure through sanctions. “[We need] so that all sanctions regimes are connected, so that Member States set common targets and work together to apply them with stronger enforcement capabilities.”
UNICEF remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting Myanmar’s children and providing aid to one of the world’s most challenging humanitarian crises.
