Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
March 27, 2026 Humanitarian aid
"A new wave of global instability is hitting Myanmar at the worst possible time," Michael Dunford, head of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) office in Myanmar, warned on Friday. Rising prices for fuel, food, and fertilizer, driven by the conflict in the Middle East, threaten hunger for vulnerable families still recovering from the devastating earthquake a year ago.
The latest WFP data show that post-disaster recovery remains extremely fragile. In the affected regions of Sagaing and Mandalay, one in six families faces food insecurity, and at least half of all households are extremely vulnerable to any further shocks.
"People who survived the earthquake were just starting to get back on their feet, and now another blow is knocking them down again," said WFP Myanmar Country Director Michael Dunford.
Echo of the Middle East conflict
The conflict in the Middle East is disrupting transportation chains and causing fuel shortages throughout Myanmar. Rising fuel prices are increasing the cost of transporting food and agricultural goods, creating additional challenges for families already struggling to afford basic necessities.
The crisis has also hit farmers preparing for the monsoon season. Fertilizer demand is expected to rise for at least the next three months. Fuel shortages and rising input prices could lead to production costs doubling compared to last year.
The problem of financing
Over the past year, WFP has assisted half a million people affected by the earthquake. The organization is now shifting from emergency relief to rebuilding infrastructure that ensures long-term economic stability. To provide life-saving assistance to 1.5 million people across the country, WFP requires $150 million this year. Without sufficient funding, the agency will have to focus only on the most immediate life-saving measures.
"The people of Myanmar have been hit by blow after blow—conflict, climate disasters, a devastating earthquake, and now a global fuel crisis," Dunford said. "We must support them now. A year after the earthquake, they cannot withstand another shock."
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.