Myanmar earthquake: there must be no obstruction to aid

Survivors of today’s earthquake are in desperate need of food, water, shelter and medical help. However, armed troops have a track record of disrupting the flow of essential supplies to non-military-controlled areas.

Since the military coup in 2021, civilians have become increasingly dependent on local aid organisations for emergency relief. This is especially true in the border regions; remote jungles and forests where access to basic services is very limited.

Indigenous networks are perfectly placed to locate entry points along the border for the informal delivery of aid. We understand the risks: the military forbids the provision of relief to areas outside their control. Yet without cross-border humanitarian assistance, vulnerable communities will be left to fend for themselves.

We call for equitable, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Click here to read HART’s urgent letter co-signed by Sam Mason and Lord Alton. Click here to read the UK Government’s reply.