Global humanitarian organization World Vision has issued an urgent warning that children affected by the recent earthquake in Myanmar face an increased risk of abuse after being displaced from their homes and schools.
“As we have seen in previous emergencies, children in disaster-stricken areas are among the most vulnerable,” said Dr Kyi Minn, World Vision International Myanmar’s National Director. “In Myanmar, these children were already exposed to numerous hardships. Now, many are homeless, and some have been separated from their families, putting them at even greater risk of abuse.”
In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, emergency response efforts are primarily focused on addressing the urgent needs of affected communities. However, Dr Kyi Minn emphasized that child protection must remain a top priority.
“Children are always the most vulnerable during a humanitarian crisis. Conflict, natural disasters, and other emergencies expose children to increased risk of violence, exploitation, abuse and neglect. Sadly, some people will prey on increased vulnerability and will take advantage of these children at a time when they most need support and protection. As a child-focused organisation, the safety and protection of children is World Vision’s main priority and will be central in our response to this emergency.”
The compounding effects of climate change, conflict economic crisis, and this latest disaster have exacerbated the challenges faced by its most vulnerable populations.
“Even before this earthquake, the situation for children in Myanmar was dire,” Dr Kyi Minn said. “Now, widespread displacement and the destruction of essential services have compounded the suffering of families and put children at significant risk. During emergencies like this some children are forced to flee, separated from their families and increasingly exposed to exploitation and abuse along the way. They are in danger of potential injury and even death. Girls are particularly at risk as the threat of gender-based violence increases.”
World Vision has launched a rapid assessment of the hardest-hit areas in the Mandalay region and has begun distributing essential aid, including food, clean water, and shelter materials. Additionally, the organization is working to ensure access to healthcare, sanitation, and psychosocial support for affected children and their families.
“The humanitarian needs in Myanmar are immense,” continued Dr Kyi Minn. “Roads have been severely damaged, making it difficult for us to get aid to those who need it. Families are struggling to survive soaring temperatures without shelter, food, or medical care while enduring immense physical and emotional trauma.”
World Vision aims to support 500,000 people with a 5 million dollar response that in the most affected areas and is urging the international community to mobilize resources for both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts.
“It is critical that children can return to a sense of normalcy as soon as possible. They need safe homes, access to education, and protection from the risks of child labor, early marriage, and other forms of abuse and exploitation. We must act urgently to ensure these children are safe and have the opportunity to rebuild their lives so that they can enjoy the bright future that all children deserve.” Said Dr Kyi Minn.
