“Myanmar cannot become a forgotten crisis,” Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), has emphasized. “This country has faced cyclones, war, conflict, violence, climate and now immense suffering.” These words serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, which has been further exacerbated by the recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country three months ago.
The earthquake, which left over 100 people dead and thousands displaced, has added to the already dire situation in Myanmar. The country has been plagued by decades of political turmoil and armed conflict, resulting in widespread poverty, displacement, and human rights violations. In addition, Myanmar is also grappling with the effects of climate change, which have led to natural disasters such as cyclones and floods.
Despite these challenges, the people of Myanmar have shown remarkable resilience and strength in the face of adversity. They have continued to rebuild their lives and communities, with the help of humanitarian organizations and the support of the international community. However, as da Silva points out, there is still much work to be done and Myanmar cannot afford to be forgotten.
The international community has a crucial role to play in ensuring that the people of Myanmar receive the necessary aid and support to rebuild their lives. However, humanitarian groups warn that the response from the international community has been inadequate. The United Nations has appealed for $276 million in aid for Myanmar, but so far, only 26% of the requested amount has been received. This is a worrying sign, as the needs on the ground are immense and urgent.
The lack of funding has resulted in critical gaps in the provision of basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Many communities are still living in makeshift shelters, with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. This has increased the risk of waterborne diseases, especially in the aftermath of the earthquake. In addition, the disruption of livelihoods has left many families struggling to provide for their basic needs.
The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly. Women and children are often the most affected in times of crisis, and the earthquake has only exacerbated their vulnerability. Many children have been forced to drop out of school, and women are facing increased risks of gender-based violence and exploitation. The elderly, who are already facing challenges due to their age, are now facing additional hardships due to the loss of their homes and livelihoods.
The international community must act now to prevent Myanmar from becoming a forgotten crisis. This requires a coordinated and sustained effort from all stakeholders, including governments, humanitarian organizations, and the private sector. It is essential that the international community fulfills its commitment to provide the necessary funding to support the people of Myanmar in their time of need.
In addition to financial support, it is also crucial to address the underlying issues that have contributed to the crisis in Myanmar. This includes addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting peace and stability in the country. It also requires a long-term commitment to building the resilience of communities and strengthening their ability to cope with future disasters.
As we mark three months since the earthquake struck Myanmar, let us not forget the people who continue to suffer and struggle to rebuild their lives. Let us heed the words of da Silva and ensure that Myanmar does not become a forgotten crisis. The people of Myanmar deserve our support and solidarity, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they receive the assistance they need to recover and rebuild. Let us work together to bring hope and dignity to the people of Myanmar in their time of immense suffering.
