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” Fighting in Myanmar Reaches New Heights: 26,000 Displaced Since Monday, UN Reports

In the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar, renewed fighting has displaced an estimated 26,000 people since Monday, according to the United Nations (UN). This recent outbreak of conflict has affected civilians in the Shan and Rakhine states of the country, resulting in a large number of internal refugees due to the violence. These people have been forced to leave their homes as they escape escalating danger. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has voiced “grave concern” over the reported displacement of these civilians and is working to provide them with vital aid and assistance. The displaced people are reportedly struggling to find safe shelter and access to necessary supplies like food and water. Based on current estimates, this displacement has been affecting the most vulnerable populations like the elderly, women and children, the majority of whom had been living in dire financial circumstances before the conflict escalated. The United Nations is attempting to alleviate the suffering for the affected communities in Myanmar, providing emergency services in the form of relief supplies, temporary shelter and psychological support. The UN is also helping citizens get access to healthcare services and encouraging their reintegration into society. In a statement, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, pleaded for an end to the violence and a swift political resolution which would secure the safety of all displaced persons. He said: “Forced displacement should never be treated as a solution for political, security or human rights issues. It is always a symptom of a failure to protect people and resolve conflicts.” Until the fighting between ethnic rebel groups and the Myanmar military ceases, the situation for the 26,000-plus internally displaced population will remain uncertain. The UN is committed to providing the best level of protection and assistance, to ensure the security of these people and the betterment of human rights for the entire country.