Myanmar's Ongoing Conflict Hampers Earthquake Relief Efforts

In the aftermath of a catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, the nation grapples with the dual challenges of disaster recovery and ongoing civil conflict. Despite declared ceasefires aimed at facilitating humanitarian aid, reports indicate continued military operations, complicating relief efforts and raising questions about the effectiveness of these truces.

The earthquake, with its epicenter near Mandalay, resulted in over 3,700 fatalities and widespread infrastructure damage. In response, the ruling military junta announced a temporary ceasefire on April 2, initially set to last until April 22, to support relief and reconstruction efforts. This ceasefire was later extended to April 30. Similarly, the Three Brotherhood Alliance—a coalition comprising the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army, and the Arakan Army—declared a unilateral one-month ceasefire on April 1, committing to refrain from offensive operations except in self-defense.

Despite these declarations, data from the United Nations and the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) reveal that military operations have persisted. Between April 2 and April 18, the military conducted an average of 9.7 airstrikes or drone attacks daily, resulting in over 100 civilian deaths during this period. Notably, on May 12, a military airstrike targeted a school in Oe Htein Kwin village, Sagaing Region, killing at least 20 children and two teachers, and injuring dozens more.

The continuation of hostilities has drawn international criticism. James Rodehaver, head of the United Nations Office on Human Rights in Myanmar, stated, "The ceasefire...should have involved stopping all military activity and repurposing your military to support the humanitarian response, and that has not happened."

The ongoing conflict has severely hampered humanitarian efforts. Damaged infrastructure, including collapsed bridges and roads, has made it challenging for aid organizations to reach affected areas. Additionally, the military's continued operations have created an environment of fear and instability, further complicating relief and reconstruction initiatives.

The situation underscores the complex interplay between Myanmar's civil conflict and disaster response. The persistence of military operations despite declared ceasefires raises concerns about the sincerity of these agreements and their effectiveness in facilitating humanitarian aid. As the nation strives to recover from the earthquake's devastation, the ongoing violence presents a significant obstacle to rebuilding efforts and the well-being of its citizens.