Earthquake relief Myanmar

Preparing for natural disasters can be 
particularly challenging for people with 
disabilities whose mobility or daily 
activities are limited. What initially 
seems complex can often be managed with 
relatively simple measures. The same 
principle applies to people with 
disabilities as to everyone else: good 
preparation significantly increases 
safety in the event of a disaster. Since 
natural hazards are frequent in Myanmar, 
preparedness is especially important here.

In Kayin State, Myanmar, support 
initiatives are focused on helping 
people with disabilities and their 
communities build resilience against 
increasingly heavy monsoon rains. In recent 
decades, the monsoon cycle has changed 
significantly: while its duration has 
decreased, the intensity of rainfall and 
storms has increased. Due to its many rivers 
and heavy seasonal rainfall, Kayin is 
particularly vulnerable to flooding. 

Efforts in the region emphasize inclusive 
disaster preparedness, actively involving 
people with disabilities and their 
organizations in planning, implementation, 
and monitoring. Communities are encouraged 
to include people with disabilities and 
other vulnerable groups in local disaster 
preparedness initiatives. Support includes 
assistance with organization at the community 
and state levels, training, facilitating 
access to assistive devices such as wheelchairs 
and crutches, and promoting participation in 
forums and awareness campaigns. A disaster 
preparedness task force has also been 
established in Kayin State.

Other activities focus on strengthening local 
disaster preparedness systems. Inclusive disaster 
preparedness committees are being formed, 
emergency kits are being distributed, and joint 
risk analyses are helping to identify 
vulnerabilities and capacities. Inclusive early 
warning systems are being developed at the community 
level, while schools and communities are being 
trained in early warning, first aid, and search 
and rescue through simulation exercises. Evacuation 
centers are being made more accessible. 

Thank you for your kind donation!