Since the military coup on February 1, 2021 till April 9, 2024, fighting throughout Myanmar has propelled the number of war-displaced individuals to 3,I09,550 million according to the lists compiled by the Burma News International - Myanmar Peace Monitor (BNI-MPM).
BNI-MPM reports that during the two-week period from March 27 - April 9 this year, 38,400 individuals were displaced by conflicts, including 200 in Chin State, 200 in Rakhine State, and an additional 38,000 in Sagaing Region, as a result of Junta's artillery barrages and the burning of civilian homes.
People also fled their homes in fear due of the Junta's arbitrary shootings, adding to the displacement caused by the armed clashes.
"In Sittwe Township (in Rakhine State), we felt in lot of danger. Lives are at risk as fighting can erupt anytime, and there is no rule of law”, a woman who fled Sittwe told DMG.
Since November 13, 2023, armed clashes have intensified in Rakhine State. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reported on March 4 that nearly 157,000 people have been displaced in Rakhine State as a result of the intense fighting between the Arakha Army (AA) and the Junta.
AA has declared the capture of 9 townships in Rakhine State during the past five months of offensives, and vows to relentlessly pursue control over the entire region.
Fighting is currently underway in Buthidaung, Maungdaw, Ann, Taungup, and Thandwe townships in Rakhine State, with tensions escalating in Sittwe and Kyaukphyu townships, prompting residents to flee as a precautionary measure.
War-displaced individuals urgently require provisions such as food, shelter, medicine, and drinking water. It is also crucial to organize appropriate accommodation for them before the onset of the rainy season.
"We receive hardly any support, and there are no job opportunities. The looming threat of potential airstrikes is a constant worry. We want to appeal to everyone to assist us”, a Rakhine war-displaced individual said.
Across Myanmar, resistance forces are engaging in daily battles by launching attacks on Junta bases and military targets, prompting the Junta to mobilize its Army, Navy, and Air Force in defense against these offensives.
