Myanmar
Myanmar faces the worst humanitarian crisis in its recent history. Conflict and extreme weather events have pushed over 15 million people into critical levels of hunger.
Since the military takeover in February 2021, people in Myanmar have faced relentless economic and political crises. The recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake only worsens an already dire situation. WFP has reached over 180,000 earthquake survivors with ready-to-eat food and is scaling up its emergency response to reach more affected communities.
15.2 million people are experiencing extreme hunger.
The cost of a basic food basket has more than quadrupled since 2021.
WFP still aims to reach
1.6 million people this year.
What’s Driving Hunger in Myanmar?
Conflict
Conflict
A total of 3.5 million people have been displaced from their homes across Myanmar, including over 3 million since the military takeover in early 2021. Most displaced people have no access to food and rely on humanitarian assistance.
Extreme Weather
Extreme Weather
Myanmar is one of the countries most at risk of cyclones, floods and landslides due to its geographic location. The country was recently hit by several floods in 2024, including those caused by Super Typhoon Yagi, that affected at least 1 million people.
Rising Prices
Rising Prices
Since the military takeover in February 2021, food prices have soared to more than four times their previous levels. In just the past year, the cost of a basic food basket – including rice, oil, beans and salt – has increased by 50%. Access to nutritious food is beyond the reach of many, and adults are skipping meals so that children can eat.
WFP’s RESPONSE IN Myanmar
WFP implemented its first operation in Myanmar in 1978 in the northern Rakhine State and established its office in 1994. Today, WFP provides crisis-affected communities with food, cash and nutrition support.
WFP provides lifesaving food to people displaced and/or affected by ongoing crises in conflict zones. WFP also provides regular support for extremely food insecure people in Kachin, Shan, Chin and Rakhine states who have been displaced since before the military takeover.
WFP provides nutrition support to pregnant and breastfeeding women, children aged 6 months to 5 years old, and people living with HIV and TB. This includes malnutrition prevention and treatment services, nutrition education, cash assistance and counseling to caregivers.
Where it is safe and feasible, WFP continues to provide children with school meals. Students receive fortified biscuit snacks, warm cooked meals or take-home rations. WFP works with communities, parent groups and religious institutions to provide these meals to students.
You Can Help Save Lives
When you donate, you help us deliver critical food relief to the most vulnerable people in Myanmar and other countries around the world. You can make difference in someone’s life – send food today.
News & Updates from Myanmar
Read the latest articles on hunger issues and WFP’s work in Myanmar.
