Effective humanitarian support mechanism during humanitarian crisis

Myanmar is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with over 18 million people urgently needing assistance and nearly 3 million internally displaced. This crisis stems from deliberate actions by the Myanmar military, aiming to destabilise opposition efforts and exacerbate civilian suffering. Compounding this situation, natural disasters, including the recent Typhoon Yagi, have caused widespread flooding and destruction, further straining limited resources.

Despite the pressing need, humanitarian aid remains obstructed, particularly in regions controlled by the National Unity Government (NUG) and Ethnic Resistance Organisations (EROs), where the military actively hinders access. This lecture by H.E. Dr Win Myat Aye, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, will explore a feasible humanitarian assistance mechanism tailored for resource-limited, conflict-affected areas. The focus will be on strategic approach to ensure humanitarian access, and effective delivery mechanism against the dual threats of conflict and natural disasters.

About the speaker

Dr Win Myat Aye, born in Pyuntazar, Bago Region, Myanmar, in 1954, is a prominent figure in both the medical and political spheres. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 1980, followed by a Master’s and Doctorate in Paediatrics, and a Diploma in Medical Education from the University of Medicine (1), Yangon. He later received a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians in 2016.

Dr. Win Myat Aye dedicated 26 years to Myanmar’s civil service, rising from medical doctor to Rector of the University of Medicine, Magway. His leadership saw the university listed in the WHO's Avicenna Directory. Beyond academia, he founded the Helping Hand Charity to support rural health and education.

In 2015, he transitioned into politics, serving as Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement overseeing disaster management, gender equality, and IDP resettlement. Post-2021 coup, he continues his service as Union Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management in the National Unity Government of Myanmar, advocating for democracy on global platforms like the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Light refreshments in the foyer at 5pm
Lecture in Law Link Theatre at 5.30pm

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