The military junta’s grip on Myanmar has led to severe censorship of both the press and the internet, which means that details about the significant earthquake that hit just before 1 PM local time on Friday are even scarcer than usual in the disaster’s wake. Official reports confirm at least 144 fatalities, though the number is expected to climb. In Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, a state of emergency was declared due to the earthquake’s impact. There, eight casualties have been confirmed, and there are grave concerns for dozens of construction workers, potentially trapped following the collapse of a high-rise under construction. Rescue efforts and the delivery of humanitarian aid in both Myanmar and Thailand are likely to face challenges due to possible aftershocks.
This earthquake, measuring 7.7 in magnitude, is the most powerful to hit this region since 1956, meaning many buildings might not have been built to endure such force. Myanmar is particularly vulnerable right now, with the UN indicating that more than 18 million people are already either displaced or grappling with hunger. Rakhine state faces a dire threat of famine, with allegations that the junta is penalizing the population collectively. Alarmingly, about 6.7 million children are in areas affected by the quake, including Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest city, which is only 17 kilometers from the epicenter. The timing of the earthquake couldn’t have been worse; occurring on a Friday during Ramadan, many were reportedly trapped as mosques filled with worshippers collapsed.
The political landscape in Myanmar remains volatile four years after the military coup, as fighting continues between the army and rebel groups supporting a rival national unity government. Despite China-backed calls for elections, the prospects are grim in a country where, according to a BBC investigation, resistance groups control 42% of the land while the junta controls only 21%. Holding elections in this environment is unlikely to alleviate the people’s hardships and could further fuel the ongoing civil conflict.
This earthquake represents yet another blow to a country already reeling from previous natural disasters, like the floods and mudslides triggered by Typhoon Yagi just six months ago, which claimed at least 226 lives and destroyed numerous villages. Faced with these compounded crises, Myanmar’s isolated rulers have reached out for international aid once more. With warnings from Amnesty and others about the adverse effects of US aid reductions, it’s crucial that the EU and other international players ensure that essential food and medical supplies reach those in need, alongside heeding human rights groups’ calls for secure access.
Zin Mar Aung, representing the national unity rebels, offered a sliver of hope by assuring that the People’s Defence Force will assist in the territories they oversee. However, coordinating these aid efforts remains a formidable challenge. The central area of Myanmar, including Mandalay, is under junta control, which means any international aid must be channeled with their cooperation.
To truly address the needs of all affected areas, the UN and international donors will need to collaborate with the local authorities in regions beyond the junta’s direct control. Under no circumstances should the junta be allowed to monopolize the distribution of aid, as this could reinforce their dominance and exacerbate the plight of those opposing them.
If you have thoughts on the subjects discussed here and wish to contribute a response of up to 300 words for our letters section, you can submit it via email by clicking here.
