The quake has caused widespread damage, deepening an already dire humanitarian crisis.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is on the ground in the worst-affected regions, where 1.6 million internally displaced people were already living due to years of conflict.
“This catastrophe will no doubt exacerbate the hardships endured by these people who we have been serving, along with our partners, with emergency assistance, shelter and livelihoods projects,” said Noriko Takagi, UNHCR’s Representative in Myanmar.
“UNHCR is scaling up to provide emergency support. We’re preparing emergency shelters, essential supplies like blankets and sleeping mats, and protection services to be able to support the most vulnerable affected families – but we need your help to scale up our response.”
Myanmar was already facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 3.6 million people displaced across the country due to ongoing conflict.
The earthquake has only compounded their suffering, while a severe global funding crisis is limiting the aid available. UNHCR’s operation in Myanmar was just 16% funded at the end of February, and without additional support, many displaced people will be left without life-saving assistance.
“All of us at UNHCR stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand impacted by the earthquake,” said Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and we are ready to contribute to relief efforts to help the survivors.”
Australia for UNHCR is appealing for urgent donations to provide life-saving assistance, including emergency shelter and essential relief items.
To support UNHCR’s emergency response in Myanmar, please visit: www.unrefugees.org.au/emergency-response/myanmar-emergency
For further information or to arrange an interview with a UNHCR spokesperson, please contact:
Kelsey Taylor | Senior Media and Communications Manager, Australia for UNHCR | [email protected] | +61 450 322 320