NEW DELHI, March 14: The United Nations’ food agency, the World Food Programme (WFP), has announced that it will be forced to cut lifesaving food assistance for approximately one million people in Myanmar starting next month due to critical funding shortfalls. This decision comes at a time when the conflict, displacement, and restrictions on access in the country are already significantly increasing the need for food aid.
Myanmar has been embroiled in turmoil since the military coup in early 2021, which ousted an elected civilian government, triggering protests that evolved into a nationwide armed rebellion against the military junta. Currently, nearly 20 million people in Myanmar require humanitarian assistance, with an estimated 15.2 million people—about one-third of the population—facing acute food insecurity.
The WFP has not specified the cause of the funding shortfall, which may be linked to global cuts in foreign aid, including those stemming from the Trump administration’s decision to reduce U.S. foreign assistance. The cuts will affect vulnerable communities across Myanmar, particularly those reliant on WFP support for survival. This includes around 100,000 internally displaced people, particularly from the minority Muslim Rohingya community, who are already facing dire conditions.
The WFP also expressed concern over the upcoming lean season from July to September when food shortages will be most severe. The agency is urging for more support to ensure that those in need can continue to receive critical food assistance during this challenging period.
