The crisis in Myanmar deserves immediate, global attention.

More than five years after the military coup in Myanmar, millions of people continue to face violence, displacement and the denial of their basic human rights.

Across Myanmar and the wider Asia-Pacific region, families have been forced from their homes, communities have been torn apart, and many people continue to live without access to safety, education, healthcare or lasting protection.

Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Australia and Jesuit Mission Australia are working together to advocate for a stronger Australian response to this ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Why this matters

The crisis in Myanmar is one of the most significant displacement crises in our region.

Millions of people have been displaced within Myanmar and across neighbouring countries, while Rohingya communities remain among the largest stateless populations in the world. As violence and instability continue, many people face ongoing uncertainty about their futures.

At the same time, international humanitarian funding is declining. Local organisations and community networks responding to the crisis are under increasing pressure, while displaced communities face growing risks, including poverty, exploitation, trafficking and gender-based violence.

Here in Australia, people from Myanmar continue to worry for the safety of loved ones and communities affected by the conflict. Many members of the Myanmar diaspora have become powerful advocates, raising awareness and supporting those impacted by the crisis.

Our commitment

JRS Australia and Jesuit Mission Australia have long-standing relationships with communities affected by displacement across the Asia-Pacific.

Through our networks and partners, we support people displaced from Myanmar through programs that provide education, livelihoods support, humanitarian assistance, accompaniment and access to essential services.

We are committed to standing alongside people affected by this crisis and advocating for policies that uphold dignity, human rights and protection.

As Fr Brett O’Neill SJ, Country Director of JRS Australia, explains:

“As the situation in Myanmar continues to deteriorate, Australia has both an opportunity and a responsibility to show leadership in our region. This means ensuring people can access protection, supporting communities on the frontlines of this crisis, and responding in a way that protects the dignity and humanity of those most affected.”

What we are calling for

We welcome the recommendations of the Senate Inquiry into Democracy and Human Rights in Myanmar and encourage the Australian Government to take meaningful action to implement them.

In particular, we are calling for:

1. Greater protection pathways

Australia should establish dedicated pathways for people from Myanmar seeking safety, including expanding humanitarian protection opportunities, reducing visa processing barriers, and supporting those already seeking protection.

2. Increased support for frontline communities

Australia should increase funding for local and grassroots organisations responding to displacement across the region, particularly along the Thai-Myanmar border, and support access to education, healthcare, psychosocial services and protection programs.

3. Stronger engagement with the Myanmar diaspora

People with lived experience of displacement and members of the Myanmar diaspora have critical knowledge, expertise and networks. Their voices should play a central role in shaping Australia’s response.

4. A principled response to military rule

Australia should continue to speak out against ongoing human rights abuses in Myanmar, support democratic principles and work with regional partners to promote peace, accountability and protection for affected communities.

How you can support

Creating lasting change requires public awareness, solidarity and action.

You can:

• Learn more about the crisis in Myanmar and its impact on displaced communities.
• Share stories and information that amplify the voices of people affected.
• Support organisations providing humanitarian assistance and accompaniment across the region.
• Contact your elected representatives and encourage stronger action to support people displaced by the crisis in Myanmar.

Latest Updates

We will continue to share news, advocacy updates, stories from the region, and opportunities to take action on this page. You can also subscribe to JRS Australia’s newsletter here for regular updates.

Together, we can support a future where people displaced by the crisis in Myanmar can live in safety, dignity and peace.