Jesuit Mission Australia has issued an urgent call for support in Myanmar, with new United Nations figures revealing that more than 22 million people – approximately one-third of the country’s population – are now in critical need of humanitarian assistance.
As the conflict escalates, Jesuit Mission’s partners in Myanmar report that several areas where they operate have recently come under direct attack, with bombings affecting villages, churches, schools, and aid centres.
Recently, the Cathedral and bishop’s offices in Banmaw were set on fire and bombed, “representing an attack on the people’s faith, culture and hopes” a spokesperson for Jesuit Mission’s partner in Myanmar said.
These attacks have forced entire communities – who are already marginalised – to flee deep into the jungle, where they construct makeshift shelters out of tarpaulin and bamboo, turning forest clearings into temporary homes and classrooms as they brace for an uncertain future.
To reach displaced communities, local Jesuit partners navigate blocked roads, remote villages, checkpoints, landmines and internet blackouts.
With a trusted network of priests, sisters, Buddhist leaders and lay collaborators, they deliver aid under immense pressure – building partnerships that are now vital for recovery and peacebuilding in Myanmar.
Many crisis-affected communities rely on humanitarian support due to years of economic collapse, conflict and natural disasters, including the floods from Typhoon Yagi in 2024 and the March 28 earthquake.
In the three months since the earthquake, Australians have helped Jesuit Mission’s local partners to:
Reconstruct three bridges and one solar power system in Southern Shan State;
Commence rebuilding 30 shelters and two multi-purpose halls; and
Distribute emergency food packages to an additional 3806 people.
“We are deeply grateful to our Jesuit partners and Australian supporters, whose generosity makes it possible to deliver life-saving aid and restore hope to communities in their darkest hour,” Helen Forde, chief executive of Jesuit Mission Australia, said.
Donations: One Foot Raised campaign.
FULL STORY
Australians help build the bridge to recovery in crisis struck Myanmar (Jesuit Mission Australia)
