What's happened
Three weeks after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, the humanitarian crisis deepens as over 3,700 are confirmed dead and millions remain displaced. Ongoing aftershocks and military restrictions complicate relief efforts, exacerbating the dire situation for those affected by both the earthquake and the ongoing civil conflict.
What's behind the headline?
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
- The earthquake has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in Myanmar, where nearly 20 million people were in need before the disaster.
- Frequent aftershocks continue to instill fear among residents, complicating recovery efforts and straining limited resources.
- The military government's control over aid distribution raises concerns about selective relief efforts, particularly in areas controlled by resistance forces.
Military Dynamics
- The military's focus on maintaining control amidst the disaster may hinder effective relief efforts.
- Reports indicate that military operations have continued despite declared ceasefires, leading to further civilian casualties.
- The situation highlights the intersection of natural disaster and ongoing conflict, complicating humanitarian responses.
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that communities affected by the earthquake are still without basic necessities like clean water and healthcare. The Independent echoed this sentiment, noting that the death toll has reached 3,726, with significant damage to infrastructure across six regions. Al Jazeera provided insight into how the earthquake could impact the ongoing civil war, suggesting that the military's supply lines may be affected due to damage to munitions factories. The Japan Times emphasized the scale of the debris that needs to be cleared, estimating at least 2.5 million tons, which complicates recovery efforts. Overall, the coverage illustrates a consensus on the severity of the situation while highlighting different aspects of the crisis.
How we got here
On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake hit central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The disaster struck amid an ongoing civil war, which has already displaced millions and created a severe humanitarian crisis. The military government's response has been criticized for its inefficiency and restrictions on aid.
Go deeper
- What are the current conditions for survivors in Myanmar?
- How is the military government responding to the earthquake?
- What international aid is being provided to Myanmar?
Common question
-
What is the current humanitarian situation in Myanmar after the earthquake?
The recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, with thousands dead and millions displaced. As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering about the immediate needs of the affected population and the challenges faced by aid organizations. Below are some common questions regarding the aftermath of the earthquake and the ongoing humanitarian efforts.
-
What are the latest updates on the Myanmar earthquake and humanitarian crisis?
Myanmar is currently facing a dual crisis following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, 2025. With over 3,600 confirmed dead and millions displaced, the situation is dire. This page provides the latest updates on the earthquake, the impact of ongoing civil conflict on relief efforts, and the humanitarian aid being provided to those affected.
More on these topics
-
Aung San Suu Kyi is a Burmese politician, diplomat, author, and a 1991 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. The first and incumbent State Counsellor of Myanmar, she is also the leader of the National League for Democracy and played a vital role in the state's tran
-
Min Aung Hlaing is a Burmese army general who is the current Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Armed Forces. He assumed the post on 30 March 2011. He is also a member of the National Defence and Security Council chaired by the President of Myanmar.
-
Sagaing is the former capital of the Sagaing Region of Myanmar. It is located in the Irrawaddy River, 20 km to the south-west of Mandalay on the opposite bank of the river.
-
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.