ICRC Pushes for Cross-Border Humanitarian Aid in War-torn Myanmar

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is negotiating with Myanmar's ruling junta, its opponents, and neighboring countries to provide cross-border humanitarian assistance amidst ongoing conflict. Since the military coup in February 2021, widespread unrest has left a third of Myanmar's population in need of aid, but access remains a significant challenge.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is actively negotiating with Myanmar's ruling junta, its armed opponents, and neighboring countries to facilitate cross-border humanitarian assistance amidst the ongoing conflict.

Since the military coup in February 2021 ousted Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government, Myanmar has faced widespread protests that escalated into an armed rebellion, leaving a third of the country's 55 million people in dire need of aid. However, the ICRC's operations are hindered by access restrictions and security risks, according to ICRC chief Mirjana Spoljaric.

Spoljaric highlighted the collapse of medical services in some regions, with significant shortages of food and medicine. During her visit to Myanmar, she discussed the ICRC's capacity to deliver aid with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, emphasizing the need for improved access to assess humanitarian needs. The ICRC is also exploring cross-border aid delivery from Bangladesh and Thailand to mitigate the crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)