Myanmar’s Junta Suppresses Information on Severe Food Crisis

A Reuters investigation reveals that Myanmar’s ruling junta is actively suppressing information about a severe food crisis affecting millions. Aid workers and researchers report being pressured not to collect or publish data indicating widespread hunger. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) recently removed its hunger assessment for Myanmar from its global map, citing safety concerns for researchers.

Currently, approximately 14.4 million people in Myanmar face acute food insecurity, with projections suggesting this could rise to 15 million by next summer. The junta’s actions have hindered humanitarian efforts, making it difficult for relief organizations to secure funding and distribute aid. Reports indicate that the military has blocked food supplies in conflict zones, exacerbating the crisis.

The environment of fear has led to clandestine data collection, with many aid workers fearing retribution for speaking out. The situation highlights the dire humanitarian needs in Myanmar, where the military’s actions have significantly worsened the food crisis since the 2021 coup.