Caught Between Conflict and Landmines in Myanmar
CISR
This headline is brought to you by the Center for International Stabilization and Recovery (CISR) which works to support resilience and recovery in global communities affected by war and conflict.
(Myanmar Pressphoto Agency) In Rakhine State, Myanmar, over 600,000 displaced people live under the control of the Arakan Army (AA)/United League of Arakan (ULA) due to continued conflict and widespread landmine presence. Many displaced residents express a desire to return home, yet fear landmines left behind in areas of military activity. For those who attempt resettlement, landmines and unexploded ordnance remain life-threatening hazards, with recent incidents of injuries reported.
The AA controls ten townships, including Kyauktaw and Rathedaung, and has assumed local administrative responsibilities, but displaced residents face challenges, including limited access to healthcare, education, and employment. As transport routes are cut off and commodity prices rise, the humanitarian crisis grows, prompting the AA to seek international aid. With increasing military operations and the threat of landmines, safe return for displaced people remains uncertain, while their hopes of a stable, self-sufficient life continue to be out of reach.
