The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) launched an urgent appeal on Sunday to raise over $100 million to help the victims of a devastating earthquake in Myanmar.
The world’s largest humanitarian network aims to raise 100 million Swiss francs ($115 million) to assist 100,000 people (20,000 households).
With rising temperatures and the monsoon season approaching in a few weeks, affected communities must be stabilised urgently to prevent secondary crises, stressed the IFRC.
“This is not just a disaster; it is a complex humanitarian crisis, adding to existing vulnerabilities,” stated Alexander Matheou, the organisation’s Asia-Pacific regional director.
“Myanmar continues to face internal displacement and food insecurity. This earthquake exacerbates an already fragile situation. The global community must act courageously and sustainably,” the IFRC emphasized.
The Myanmar Red Cross Society has mobilised trained volunteers for search and rescue operations, the statement noted. They have provided initial assistance, pre-hospital care, distributed emergency relief items like blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene kits, and deployed mobile health teams.
