A UN rights expert has expressed deep concern over the immediate consequences of U.S. and other humanitarian aid cuts on the people of Myanmar, describing the effects as “crushing”. Tom Andrews, an independent monitor for the UN’s Human Rights Council, plans to address the council to urge collective action against what he calls a humanitarian crisis. He emphasised the necessity for international funding to support essential life-sustaining programmes that are suffering crippling cuts.
Andrews noted a lack of clarity regarding the full extent of the fallout, but pointed out that since October 1, 2023, the U.S. provided $141 million in aid, highlighting the abruptness of the reduction. He deemed these cuts “unnecessary and cruel”, particularly during a time when hope among the Myanmar populace is rekindled through national resistance and a decline in military power.
Since the military coup on February 1, 2021, Myanmar has faced chaos and violent unrest, particularly after attempts to quash peaceful protests were met with brutal force. Many activists have taken up arms due to continued oppression, turning large regions into conflict zones. Recent reports indicate ongoing violence, including airstrikes causing civilian casualties.
The dire situation is reflected in the suffering of vulnerable groups, such as tuberculosis and HIV patients missing medications, disabled children unable to access rehabilitation, and aid workers struggling to provide food and water due to funding cuts. Andrews underscored the chaos stemming from U.S. withdrawal of support, calling it a devastating blow to the people.
The Trump administration has claimed that the U.S. has been disproportionately bearing humanitarian aid responsibilities, suggesting the need for spend-reduction measures. Andrews critiqued this, denouncing rhetoric that trivialises the impact on innocent lives by hinting at systemic cuts. “We need to take a stand about this,” he declared, highlighting the urgent need for global action to aid Myanmar’s distressing predicament.
A UN rights expert has warned that cuts to US humanitarian aid have had a devastating impact on Myanmar’s population, leading to significant suffering among vulnerable groups. Tom Andrews will urge the UN Human Rights Council to take action by funding essential programmes. The situation in Myanmar remains volatile since the military coup, with ongoing violence and humanitarian needs escalating.
Tom Andrews’ alarming portrayal of the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar underlines the dire consequences of U.S. aid withdrawals. With vital support being slashed, vulnerable populations face growing risks, and the international community is called upon to step up and take decisive action to avert further disaster. As conflict continues and innocent lives hang in the balance, now is a critical moment for global focus and commitment to alleviate suffering in Myanmar.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
