The Humanitarian Crisis in Myanmar (Burma)

The Humanitarian Crisis in Myanmar (Burma)


The Crisis in Myanmar

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has been embroiled in a humanitarian crisis for years. A military junta ruled the country with an iron fist for several decades before ceding some power to a civilian government in 2011. However, the military still retains significant control, and systematic discrimination against the Rohingya Muslim minority persists.

Rohingya Crisis

The Rohingya are a Muslim minority group in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar. They are not recognized as citizens by the government, which considers them illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. In August 2017, a militant group calling itself the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army attacked several police posts, killing several officers. In response, the military launched a brutal crackdown, killing thousands of Rohingya and driving more than 700,000 refugees into neighboring Bangladesh.

Humanitarian Aid

The Rohingya crisis has been called one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The refugees who have fled to Bangladesh live in overcrowded camps with inadequate shelter, food, water, and medical care. Relief organizations have provided aid to refugees, but funding shortages have hampered efforts to provide necessary assistance. The Bangladeshi government, which has borne the brunt of the refugee crisis, has been praised for its generosity in hosting the Rohingyas.

International Response

The international community has been slow to respond to the Rohingya crisis. Many governments have been reluctant to take a strong stance against Myanmar’s military government, fearing it could disrupt trade and investment relationships. The UN has accused Myanmar’s military of committing genocide and other crimes against humanity against the Rohingya. However, no concrete action has been taken to hold the military accountable for its actions. The crisis in Myanmar is ongoing, with no clear resolution in sight. Millions of people are affected by the conflict, and it is essential for the international community to take action to put an end to the violence and support those affected by the crisis.