The challenges of rescue and recovery in Myanmar after last week’s earthquake | 7.30

Key Concepts:

• Earthquake in Central Myanmar
• Aftershocks and rescue efforts
• Humanitarian aid challenges
• Myanmar's military junta (Hun) and its response
• Civil War and political instability
• Aid obstruction and misuse concerns
• International assistance and its limitations

Earthquake Devastation and Rescue Efforts:

A significant earthquake struck central Myanmar, leading to widespread devastation. Rescue teams from neighboring countries like China, India, and Russia have been deployed to assist. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by:

• Aftershocks posing safety risks.
• Lack of heavy equipment.
• Damaged roads slowing down progress.
• Communication challenges.

Locals reported that some of the worst-hit areas went days without assistance. The earthquake's impact was felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, where a building collapse resulted in casualties among Myanmar workers seeking better living conditions.

Humanitarian Crisis and Aid Obstruction:

Prior to the earthquake, over 20 million people in Myanmar were already in need of humanitarian aid. Tom Andrews, the UN special rapporteur on human rights for Myanmar, expressed dismay at the military junta's response, citing:

• Obstruction of aid.
• Continued military bombings in various areas.
• Prioritization of military actions over saving lives.

Andrews emphasized the unconscionable nature of these actions, especially considering the ongoing civil war.

Political Context and Military Junta's Actions:

Myanmar's ruling generals, led by Major General Min Aung Hlaing, who orchestrated the coup against Aung San Suu Kyi, have been battling multiple armed groups. Despite the earthquake, the junta's actions include:

• State TV showing Min Aung Hlaing visiting hospital patients and questioning building quality.
• Declaring a national week of mourning while simultaneously continuing air strikes on opposition-controlled areas.
• Escalating attacks on civilian populations, with increased aerial and artillery attacks since the coup began.

The junta controls less than half of the country's territory and has been losing ground militarily.

Concerns about Aid Distribution and Misuse:

The U.N. and opposition groups have unsuccessfully called for a pause in the conflict to facilitate aid distribution. Concerns exist regarding the junta's potential misuse of aid, reminiscent of the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis 17 years ago, where the junta was accused of misusing aid intended for victims. The International Community must insist that Aid has to go to where it's needed period.

Conclusion:

The earthquake in Myanmar has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, compounded by political instability and the military junta's actions. Rescue efforts are underway, but face significant challenges. Concerns about aid obstruction and misuse persist, highlighting the need for international oversight to ensure aid reaches those who need it most. For millions in central Myanmar, survival, rebuilding, and coping with loss are the immediate priorities.