Myanmar’s Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Military Pushes Forward With Election
Pulse — Myanmar at a Humanitarian Breaking Point
An Election Held Against a Backdrop of War
On December 28, 2025, Myanmar’s military government proceeded with the first phase of a nationwide election despite ongoing civil war and widespread displacement. While officials framed the vote as a step toward stability, international observers and humanitarian groups described it as disconnected from realities on the ground.
Large portions of the country remain outside military control, and millions of civilians are unable to safely participate due to active conflict, displacement, or political repression.
Conflict That Never Ended
Since the 2021 coup, fighting between the military and pro-democracy resistance groups has intensified rather than subsided. Ethnic armed organizations and newly formed civilian defense forces continue to challenge the junta across multiple regions, resulting in sustained violence and civilian harm.
As of late December 2025, more than 3.6 million people have been internally displaced. Entire communities have been uprooted, often multiple times, as front lines shift and airstrikes target populated areas.
Humanitarian Needs at Unprecedented Scale
According to the United Nations, approximately 20 million people in Myanmar now require humanitarian assistance—nearly half the population. Food insecurity has surged, with over 12 million people projected to face acute hunger entering 2026.
Healthcare systems have collapsed in conflict zones, schools have closed, and access to clean water and sanitation remains inconsistent. Children are among the most affected, facing rising malnutrition rates and limited access to education.
Aid Efforts Constrained and Underfunded
Despite the scale of need, humanitarian operations in Myanmar remain severely underfunded. By the end of December, less than 15% of requested international aid funding had been secured. Access constraints, insecurity, and restrictions imposed by authorities further complicate delivery.
Local community networks and cross-border aid groups have attempted to fill gaps, but their reach is limited. Without sustained international engagement, relief efforts are unlikely to keep pace with growing demand.
Why the Election Matters
The junta’s election effort has drawn criticism for excluding major opposition parties, criminalizing dissent, and limiting media access. Analysts argue that proceeding with a vote amid mass displacement does little to address the humanitarian emergency and may further entrench instability.
For displaced civilians, political processes offer little relief without safety, food, and shelter. The election has instead highlighted the widening gap between official narratives and lived experience.
Why This Crisis Is Often Overlooked
Myanmar’s conflict has persisted for years, and prolonged crises often struggle to maintain international attention. Competing global emergencies, limited access for journalists, and diplomatic fatigue have contributed to reduced visibility—even as conditions worsen.
Yet the absence of attention carries consequences. Underfunded crises become self-reinforcing, with unmet needs leading to further displacement, instability, and long-term harm.
Why the Moment Matters Now
Late December represents a critical juncture. Displacement is rising, hunger is intensifying, and aid pipelines remain thin heading into the new year. Without increased funding and political pressure to allow humanitarian access, 2026 is likely to bring deeper suffering.
Myanmar’s situation illustrates how political processes can move forward while humanitarian collapse continues unchecked. The election does not mark resolution; it underscores how far conditions have deteriorated.
As the year ends, the crisis stands as a reminder that some of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies unfold quietly—until attention returns too late.