As a result of ongoing conflict between the Kachin Independence Army and the state, 100,000 people have fled their homes and now live in crowded camps. While they dream of returning home, the reality of landmines, destroyed infrastructure, and ongoing fighting in or near their villages prevents them from returning. In the meantime, they are faced with the reality of camp shelters falling into disrepair, a lack of resources to cover basic necessities such as personal hygiene supplies, and coping with insufficient or unsafe places to bath or use the washroom.
In response, HOPE International Development Agency has been working closely with a partner organization in Myanmar since 2011, providing practical support to meet these needs and restore dignity to families living in the camps.
The conflict in Myanmar is a protracted one. HOPE’s commitment to internally displaced families in the country is long-term.
Over the past few years, donors have supported health care, early childcare development, education, agriculture, and income-generation programs for families living in the camps.
This past year, donors provided support to build and repair shelters, construct latrines, and provide bathing spaces and hand-washing stations that are safe for women and children living in camps across northern Myanmar.
While a return home may still be in the distant future, families can live with dignity when they have secure shelters and the means to stay healthy and safe.
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| New shelters are helping displaced families in Myanmar regain their dignity. |
