REACT's Bangkok Team Pushes Forward Amidst Barriers in Myanmar Earthquake Response

Pictured: Responder Lizzy Stileman reflects on the complex challenges facing humanitarian organisations trying to get into Myanmar.

As the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar deepens, REACT’s team continues to lead from the front. Deployed to Bangkok just 36 hours ago, Responders Caroline O’Callaghan and Lizzy Stileman have wasted no time in attending a series of meetings with NGOs, UN agencies, and diplomatic partners to try to unlock humanitarian access into Myanmar. But gaining access is anything but straightforward.

Despite the overwhelming need on the ground, access to Myanmar remains tightly restricted. Visa approvals are slow and uncertain, and even the UN is struggling to get personnel into the country. As Caroline notes, “There are hundreds of people here willing to help, and there's such a huge need in Myanmar - but nobody can join the dots.”

Meeting Relentless Challenges with Relentless Action

Since arriving, the team has met with UNDAC and UN personnel, who provided valuable briefings and confirmed that visa challenges are widespread. The British Embassy has also provided helpful guidance and diplomatic support and various NGO partners, including Halo Trust, ShelterBox, and TaskForce Kiwi have shared vital insights based on years of experience in the region.

Hope in Collaboration

REACT is focusing on building strong, agile partnerships with organisations already working near or inside Myanmar. Halo Trust, for example, has operated in the country for several years and has offered critical on-the-ground knowledge.

Lizzy adds "Collaboration is absolutely everything. If we can get in, we know we’ll do something pretty special out there."

The team is undeterred by the barriers. They’re exploring every possible route, leveraging every conversation, and pressing forward with determination.

A Crisis of Access

The humanitarian crisis inside Myanmar is stark. Earthquake devastation has flattened homes, overwhelmed hospitals, and displaced communities across vast regions. Yet access restrictions mean that aid is still not reaching many who need it most. Lizzy reflects on BBC footage showing the damage: “We know if we get in, we can make a difference.”

REACT is doing everything it can to reach those in need. But we need your support.

Your donation today helps us continue to push through red tape, deploy specialist teams, and stay ready to move the moment the door opens.

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