Nearly a third of Myanmar’s population faces acute food insecurity in 2025, as conflict and military blockades worsen an already dire humanitarian crisis. UN human rights experts warn that over 19.9 million people require urgent assistance, with food shortages hitting unprecedented levels.
Military Blockades and destruction worsen crisis
Since the 2021 military coup, violence has engulfed 96% of Myanmar’s townships. As armed resistance groups gain ground, the junta has retaliated with aid blockades, trade restrictions, and attacks on humanitarian workers. Military strikes have destroyed farmlands, scattered landmines, and displaced farmers, crippling local food production. Labour shortages from mass displacement and forced conscription have further reduced agricultural output.
Staple food prices are soaring. In 2025, the cost of rice, beans, and oil is expected to rise by 30%. With Myanmar’s economy in collapse, millions are struggling to afford basic nutrition.
Rakhine State on the Brink of Famine
The situation in Rakhine State is particularly dire. A complete military blockade since 2023 has cut off nearly all humanitarian aid, violating international humanitarian law. The UNDP warns that two million people, including the Rohingya community, are at risk of starvation.
Conflict between the Arakan Army and the military has forced mass displacement, destroyed food reserves, and restricted farming and fishing. Severe weather events have further reduced food supplies. Reports indicate that some internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Buthidaung Township have resorted to eating rice bran, a feed typically reserved for animals.
Children and women at extreme risk
Over half of Myanmar’s children now live in poverty, with more than 40% of infants lacking essential nutrition. In 2024, diarrhoea outbreaks, worsened by medicine shortages, claimed dozens of young lives. One in four families has resorted to emergency survival measures, such as skipping meals or selling belongings.
Women in displacement camps bear the brunt of the crisis, struggling to feed their families while managing unpaid care work. Crowded camps with poor sanitation and minimal food supplies have become hotspots of disease and malnutrition.
Global Aid needed as displacement surges
Myanmar’s displaced population has reached 3.5 million, a 72% increase from 2024. IDP camps remain under constant threat, with inadequate food, water, and medical care. Frequent internet shutdowns by the junta obstruct data collection, making the full scale of child mortality and malnutrition unknown.
The recent suspension of US foreign aid will further worsen conditions, not only in Myanmar but also in neighbouring countries hosting refugees.
Urgent action required
UN experts call for urgent international intervention. They urge ASEAN to prioritise humanitarian assistance and facilitate cross-border aid. Global organisations must bypass junta restrictions and partner with the National Unity Government and trusted local groups to reach those in need.
The world must act now to prevent a worsening catastrophe in Myanmar.
