Emergency Assistance to Conflict-Affected People in Burma - ICRC Appeal 2013

October 2013 – Burma experiences frequent natural disasters such as cyclones floods drought and earthquakes and there has also been decades of low-intensity conflict between the Burmese army and the minority ethnic independence movements. The ongoing conflict and the regularly occurring natural disasters have created a challenging humanitarian situation in Burma. More than 650 000 people are internally displaced having been forced to move away from their homes due to conflict and more than 350 000 Burmese refugees are living in neighbouring countries. With DFATD’s support the International Committee of the Red Cross’s (ICRC) 2013 emergency operations in Burma aim to provide protection and assistance to an estimated 900 000 conflict-affected people. Some project activities include: (1) providing health and medical care; (2) distributing essential household items such as clothing; (3) improving water and sanitation services; (4) supporting people the restoration of livelihoods; (5) providing protection services to vulnerable populations; (6) assisting the wounded and disabled; and (7) promoting respect for international humanitarian law among authorities armed forces weapons bearers and other stakeholders.

The expected outputs for this project include: (1) humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians affected by armed conflict or other situations of violence including basic medical care; (2) the International Committee of the Red Cross’ (ICRC) mandate and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s neutral impartial and independent humanitarian principles are promoted with all stakeholders; and (3) the ICRC and/or National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies receive safe access to populations in need. The expected intermediate outcome is reduced vulnerability of crisis-affected people especially women and children.