UNICEF’s Ted Chaiban issued an urgent call for international action on Thursday, highlighting the worsening situation for children in Myanmar. Since the February 2021 military coup, the country has been engulfed in escalating violence, severely impacting children.
Conflict between the military and ethnic groups has intensified, with artillery and airstrikes causing widespread destruction. Over 650 children have been killed or injured this year, and many are caught in the ongoing violence between ethnic militias and government forces.
Deadly weapons are being used in civilian areas, including schools and hospitals, leaving children without safe spaces. Over 3.4 million people have been displaced, nearly 40% of whom are children in need of protection and care.
Extreme weather, such as Typhoon Yagi, has worsened conditions, cutting children off from critical services like healthcare and education. Humanitarian aid is limited by ongoing conflict and logistical issues, with UNICEF’s 2024 appeal currently underfunded by more than 75%.
Despite these challenges, UNICEF continues to provide essential services, including healthcare and education. Chaiban called on the international community to increase support to prevent further suffering, while UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews urged stronger sanctions to protect Myanmar’s children.
