Urgent needs for IDP camps throughout Karen state

The situation in Karen State has been intensifying with non-stop fighting since March 18th, when KNU issued an official statement for everyone affiliated with the SAC to leave KNU territories. Kawkareik, Myawaddy, and Lay Kay Kaw have been the focal areas of conflict over the past few weeks. With indiscriminate shelling and airstrikes in these areas, an influx of displaced populations has been reported on the Thai-Myanmar border with over 150,000 people displaced in Karen State alone.

There have also been civilian casualties and injuries due to the increased violence. On March 24th, a 17-years-old girl in Kawkareik was killed by junta shelling. With the main focus being on the Central Karen State, there has been fighting in the Southern Karen State which has been overlooked. Since late May, the situation has gradually subsided in the Karen State. However, the recent monsoon weather has resulted in severe flooding and landslides making supply logistics and travel difficult.

The team we are in touch with has sent in an urgent request for assistance in providing safety to the growing number of IDPs in Karen state, particularly the Waw Lay area. If you are able to contribute even a small amount towards helping those whose lives are now at risk, or are able to share this message to others in your community, it will be greatly appreciated.