European Union strengthens life‑saving protection for children amid rising risks in Myanmar

YANGON, MYANMAR – UNICEF today began implementation of a project funded by the European Union (EU) to support life-saving assistance for children and families affected by the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. The generous EU contribution comes at a critical time, as conflict, displacement and deepening poverty continue to increase risks for the most vulnerable, including children.

The support is urgently needed as children in Myanmar face escalating protection risks, including grave violations. This includes ongoing threats from forced recruitment and landmines and explosive ordnance, with more than one in five victims being children. These risks underscore the urgent need for strengthened child protection services across the country.

Children in Myanmar are facing serious threats to their safety, wellbeing and development. Many have been displaced from their homes, separated from their families, or exposed to heightened risks of violence, exploitation and psychosocial distress, while access to essential services remains disrupted.

The contribution will enable UNICEF and partners to strengthen life-saving child protection services in crisis-affected communities, ensuring that children at risk are identified, supported and protected, and that families receive the assistance they need to cope and recover.

The European Union has been a longstanding partner of UNICEF in Myanmar, supporting life-saving programmes and helping deliver critical results for children and families affected by crises across the country.

“Across Myanmar, too many children are living with fear, loss and uncertainty, exposed to risks no child should have to face,” said Yasumasa Kimura, UNICEF Representative in Myanmar. “This support from the European Union will help us reach the most vulnerable with protection, care and a sense of safety - so that children can begin to recover.”

Through this partnership, UNICEF will continue working with partners to deliver principled, needs-based humanitarian assistance, reaching children and families in some of the most challenging and hard-to-reach areas.