June 21, 2024

The European Union (EU) has announced an additional €15 million in humanitarian aid to support refugees and internally displaced persons in Myanmar amidst escalating armed conflicts. This latest funding aims to address urgent needs for food, clean drinking water, emergency healthcare, and mine clearance efforts, according to the EU’s statement released on June 20.

This new allocation is intended to enhance the EU’s existing efforts to provide critical support to those fleeing violence and persecution, both within Myanmar and in neighboring countries. The aid package underscores the EU’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the military’s takeover and ongoing conflict.

Janez Lenarčič, Head of the EU’s Crisis Management Commission, emphasized the importance of international humanitarian principles, especially given the severe and widespread fighting in Myanmar, including in Rakhine State. He highlighted the significant increase in the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance since the military coup, which has now reached over 18.6 million, up from around 1 million before the coup.

The EU, in cooperation with allies like the United States, continues to impose sanctions on the leaders of the military junta and related businesses. For 2024, the EU has earmarked up to €36 million in support for Myanmar, reflecting a significant escalation in their efforts to address the crisis.

Since 1994, the EU has been providing humanitarian aid to Myanmar. Earlier this year, they allocated €19 million for humanitarian assistance and an additional €2 million for those affected by regional conflicts.

Lenarčič reiterated that the current humanitarian situation in Myanmar, with over 3 million displaced people, requires urgent international attention and sustained aid efforts to alleviate the suffering of affected communities.