UNHCR Seeks $16 Million To Support Myanmar’s Earthquake Survivors With Emergency Relief Efforts

The UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, is seeking $16 million to aid 1.2 million survivors of last week's earthquake in Myanmar. "UNHCR will use the funds to expand its emergency relief efforts, manage displacement sites and support vulnerable people in six affected regions until the end of the year," stated Babar Baloch, a UNHCR spokesperson, during a press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

In response to the earthquake that hit central Myanmar, UNHCR has already distributed existing supplies within the country. These include plastic sheets and kitchen sets for approximately 25,000 survivors across Mandalay, Sagaing, Bago regions, Nay Pyi Taw, and parts of Shan State (South). The agency is co-leading efforts on shelter provision, emergency relief items distribution, camp coordination, and protection as part of an inter-agency response.

UNHCR is mobilising additional supplies from its warehouses in Myanmar to assist another 25,000 individuals. However, there is an urgent need to replenish these stocks due to the extensive needs caused by the earthquake on top of ongoing conflict and displacement over the past four years. "These relief items are critical for people who have lost everything, including the means to buy supplies as some local markets are not yet functioning," added Babar Baloch.

The requested funding will enable UNHCR to procure and distribute emergency shelter kits and other essential relief items. This assistance aims to support survivors during their initial recovery phase. In areas where displacement sites are established, UNHCR will coordinate efforts to enhance service delivery and reduce risks for those affected.

With additional funding, UNHCR plans to bolster protection services such as legal assistance, psychosocial support, and interventions for children, women, and people with disabilities. The agency remains committed to advocating for safe humanitarian access through local partnerships in affected regions.

The earthquake's impact has compounded existing challenges from prolonged conflict and displacement in Myanmar. As local markets struggle to function again, immediate relief is crucial for those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. The international community's support is vital in ensuring that these vulnerable populations receive timely assistance.

UNHCR's coordinated efforts aim not only at providing immediate relief but also at laying a foundation for longer-term recovery. By addressing both immediate needs and future challenges, the agency seeks to restore stability and hope among Myanmar's earthquake survivors.

With inputs from WAM