In early 2021, Myanmar was making strides toward political and economic progress after a decade of reforms. However, in February of that year, the military staged a coup, ousting Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected government. This led to widespread instability, affecting governance, the economy, and daily life for its citizens.
Adding to the country’s challenges, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, with its epicentre near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city. The effects were felt as far as Bangkok, more than 1,000 kilometres away, where buildings sustained damage.
Due to the military government’s restrictions on social media and communications platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Signal, and X, information on the extent of the situation in Myanmar has been slow to emerge. Reports indicate that international assistance may be required, and the military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has reached out for support.
The situation is complicated by the country’s ongoing internal conflict. The military controls only a portion of Myanmar’s territory, with large areas under the influence of ethnic armed groups and resistance fighters. This makes it difficult to assess needs and distribute resources efficiently.
Myanmar’s History with Natural Disasters
Myanmar has experienced numerous natural disasters over the years. In September 2023, severe flooding linked to Typhoon Yagi impacted communities, while Cyclone Mocha earlier that year affected the Rohingya minority in Rakhine state. One of the most significant disasters in recent history was Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which led to widespread devastation.
At the time, Myanmar had limited access to mobile technology, making communication difficult. Today, despite government restrictions, smartphones are more widespread, allowing for better information sharing and coordination.
International Aid Challenges
While Myanmar has previously been reluctant to accept international assistance, the government’s recent call for help marks a shift in approach. However, changes in global policies may impact the effectiveness of aid efforts. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had been a major contributor to humanitarian assistance in Myanmar. Recently, its funding and presence have been significantly reduced, affecting the ability of international organisations to operate in the country.
In 2024, USAID provided approximately US$240 million (A$380 million) to Myanmar, accounting for a significant portion of multilateral humanitarian aid. However, program reductions and the closure of several aid-funded facilities along the Thailand-Myanmar border have complicated relief efforts. Independent media organisations reporting on the situation in Myanmar have also experienced funding cuts.
What Happens Next?
A day before the earthquake, Min Aung Hlaing addressed military personnel at the 80th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day Parade, announcing that national elections would be held in December. Human rights groups have already raised concerns about the credibility of such elections given the ongoing political situation.
Myanmar has historically favoured democratic movements, with the National League for Democracy (NLD) securing victories in past elections. The 2020 elections, which were widely considered fair, saw Aung San Suu Kyi’s party win by a large margin before the military takeover.
As Myanmar navigates both political and natural challenges, the international community will be watching closely. While foreign aid remains essential, the country’s political climate continues to shape how and where assistance can be provided. For Australians following the situation, it remains to be seen how global governments and humanitarian organisations will respond to Myanmar’s latest crisis.
Expert Assignment Help for Hassle-Free Learning!
Facing challenges with assignments? Our assignment help service is here to support you! We cover business, law, finance, nursing, statistics, and more, delivering well-researched, original work on time. With budget-friendly rates and special discounts on bulk orders, achieving top grades has never been simpler. Share your requirements with us today and make studying easier
source
Mitchell
Mitchell is a seasoned Ph.D. scholar with extensive expertise gained through years of rigorous research, publication, and teaching experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and analytical skills to tackle complex academic challenges. His work is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions, advancing knowledge, and promoting academic excellence. Proficient in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing, Mitchell has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and mentored students to achieve academic success.
