“Myanmar’s Military Turns Young Civilians into a Human Supply Line for War “
Myanmar’s military is increasingly using forced recruitment, abductions and alleged trafficking to replenish its ranks amid mounting battlefield losses. According to leaked documents reviewed by BBC Burmese, authorities have imposed recruitment quotas, while reports describe young civilians being detained, coerced into military service or deceived by false job offers. An estimated 100,000 young people have been conscripted since early 2024. These practices have heightened fear among civilians, forced some young people to flee the country and worsened the economic and social hardships faced by families.
“Majority of people in Myanmar are living in poverty or at risk, UN report says “
According to a new UNDP report, more than 37 million people in Myanmar, representing 68% of the population, are living in multidimensional poverty or at risk of falling into it. The ongoing armed conflict, economic instability, displacement and limited access to essential services have worsened living conditions nationwide. Nearly 18 million people are already experiencing multidimensional poverty, while another 19.5 million are vulnerable to it. The report also warns that at least one million young people may have left Myanmar since 2021, raising concerns about the country’s future workforce and human development.
Myanmar: Poverty deepens as families face multiple shocks with limited resources
A new UNDP report reveals that more than 37 million people, or 68 per cent of Myanmar’s population, are experiencing multidimensional poverty or are at risk of falling into it due to prolonged conflict, displacement, economic instability and climate-related disasters. Health and living-standard shortages account for more than 80 per cent of multidimensional poverty. The report also highlights severe deprivation in Rakhine State, shrinking opportunities for young people, and the loss of at least one million young people who may have left the country since 2021. UNDP calls for greater investment in healthcare, education, livelihoods and essential services to protect communities and support Myanmar’s recovery.
Two years on the run, these parents teach survival skills no child should need
A family in Myanmar has spent more than two years fleeing military patrols and ongoing fighting. The family repeatedly moves to find safety as attacks approach their village. The conflict has displaced millions across the country, while children face disrupted education and continuing risks. Despite the fear and uncertainty, the family tries to protect their children and maintain hope for a future beyond the war.
“Myanmar military launches air strike on Rakhine market, killing at least 33 “
A Myanmar military air strike hit a market and nearby bridge in Kyauktaw, Rakhine State, on September 28, killing at least 33 people and injuring 36 others, according to rescue officials and the Arakan Army. The market was a major wholesale centre for the region. The military did not immediately comment, while it has previously said its air strikes target legitimate military targets. The attack comes amid continued fighting between the military and ethnic armed groups in Rakhine, where nearly half a million people have been displaced.
Exclusive: Myanmar’s Dictator Wants to Rebuild Ties With the West
In an exclusive interview with TIME, Myanmar’s military-backed President Min Aung Hlaing says he wants to rebuild relations with Western countries and attract greater international engagement. He presents cooperation with the West as a way to support peace, stability, economic development, and Myanmar’s claimed transition toward democracy. The article also examines the country’s ongoing civil war, international sanctions, Myanmar’s growing dependence on China and Russia, and the human-rights allegations surrounding the military government.