On 28 March 2025, a powerful 7,7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar and neighbouring regions in Thailand. The disaster killed hundreds of people, injured thousands more, and left entire families homeless and without access to essential services.
As in every disaster, children are the most vulnerable. Many have lost their home, their school or even their family. They need immediate help to survive and recover. Myanmar is one of the most complex humanitarian emergencies globally. Even before the earthquake, over 6,5 million children were in need of assistance.
“This earthquake is another brutal blow to children in Myanmar – many of whom were already living through conflict, displacement, and deprivation. In minutes, they lost loved ones, homes, and access to essential services. The needs are massive and rising by the hour.”
Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director
The extent of the destruction is enormous.
UNICEF is already on the ground
Thanks to its long-standing presence in Myanmar, UNICEF was able to respond quickly and mobilise emergency relief. As part of its initial response, UNICEF is mobilising 80 metric tons of life-saving supplies for immediate delivery to children and families in desperate need. Our teams are currently preparing to provide the following services:
- Drinking water and hygiene kits to prevent the spread of disease
- Tents and tarpaulins to shelter homeless families
- Medical and nutritional assistance to treat the injured and protect the most vulnerable children
- Psychosocial support to help traumatised children
- Safe spaces for children separated from their families, to protect them from violence and exploitation
But the needs are enormous, and we must scale up our response.
UNICEF provides vital aid to affected families.
Your donation can save lives
In this emergency, every minute counts. By making a donation today, you enable UNICEF to quickly provide vital aid to the most affected children.
For over seven decades, UNICEF has been committed to the children of Myanmar, notably in the areas of nutrition, education, health, water supply and child protection. Last year alone, UNICEF helped 500.000 children get vaccinated against measles, provided access to education for over 520.000 children, and supplied drinking water to around 709.000 people.
