We—the undersigned 265 Myanmar, regional, and international civil society organizations—express our deepest sorrow for communities across Myanmar and Thailand devastated by the earthquake on 28 March 2025. As Myanmar faces yet another humanitarian crisis amidst the military junta’s intensifying campaign of terror against the Myanmar people, it is imperative that the international community immediately mobilize resources and direct disaster emergency relief to survivors and affected communities of the earthquake. This must be channeled through local community groups and frontline responders in collaboration with the National Unity Government (NUG), Ethnic Resistance Organizations (EROs), and civil society. We emphasize that these disaster relief efforts, through any implementing partners, must not be exploited, manipulated, or weaponized by the military junta for its political and military gain.

Over 23.5 million people have been displaced, 19.9 million require urgent humanitarian assistance (United Nations) and more than half the population has been plunged into poverty. Amidst this turmoil, the United States has slashed foreign aid, exacerbating an already dire situation and drawing international condemnation.

A newly formed union, supported by Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA’s partner organisation SENTRO, has won the struggle to have recognition for their union at Metrowear Incorporated, the factory where they produce sportswear for the global brand Lululemon.