The warning from General James Mattis about the critical need for diplomacy and aid underscores a pivotal aspect of national security—that true safety hinges not solely on military might but also on fostering stability, trust, and dependable partnerships. Recent experiences along the Thai-Burma border amplify this message, revealing painful realities for countless refugees fleeing the brutal violence meted out by the Myanmar military. Since the coup on February 1, 2021, which saw Aung San Suu Kyi’s government overthrown after a decisive electoral win, countless individuals have joined the resistance, with many fleeing the country altogether. In this context, the voices of the affected are more vital than ever.
During my visit, I encountered survivors of this ongoing conflict—amputees and others wounded who were fortunate enough to receive care in Thai hospitals. Meeting with indigenous Chin leaders, I learned about the destruction of their cherished places of worship; more than sixty churches have been bombed, stripping away their sense of community and inflicting deep psychological wounds. Similar stories emerged from Karen leaders, representing one of Myanmar’s largest ethnic groups, who described a dire humanitarian crisis with 1.2 million internally displaced individuals. These communities, resilient yet battered, highlight the urgent need for assistance as the international landscape appears increasingly bleak.
The inaccessibility of humanitarian aid signifies a broader systemic issue in Myanmar. With the political landscape under the junta’s strict control, many civil society organizations have been silenced, and their leaders imprisoned. The government’s crackdown has led to a staggering 3.5 million internally displaced people and 22 million individuals in dire need of aid, as the country’s health and social systems continue to crumble. Moreover, the cessation of USAID has halted essential support, including vaccinations and treatments for diseases like TB, malaria, and HIV, further exacerbating the crisis. The dire implications of this aid vacuum are particularly evident along the Thai border, where many refugees are entering nine camps that are slated to close by July 31, 2025, leaving over 108,000 people without means to feed themselves or work.
This humanitarian disaster is not merely an isolated issue; it reverberates globally, affecting donor nations like Australia and their defense spending decisions. Julie Bishop’s role as the UN Special Envoy for Myanmar exemplifies the international community’s commitment to challenging the junta and advocating for humanitarian actions. Institutions like the UN Security Council and ASEAN have called for an immediate cessation of airstrikes and the unimpeded flow of aid, illustrating a collective acknowledgment of the dire circumstances faced by the Burmese people.
Amid these challenges, it is encouraging to note that Australia has not reduced its aid in recent budgets, setting a precedent for other nations to follow. This consistent commitment to humanitarian support serves as a rallying point for promoting bipartisan efforts in the opposition, urging all political factions to recognize the importance of maintaining assistance in such dire circumstances. The need for solidarity and effective action is more critical than ever as the situation develops.
As the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that effective security transcends military responses; it involves a comprehensive strategy that includes diplomacy and humanitarian aid. The stories I witnessed along the Thai-Burma border underline the necessity of collective action rooted in empathy, trust, and partnership. It is essential that global leaders not only assess their defense spending but also uphold a commitment to humanitarian efforts that could pave the way towards restoring peace and stability in Myanmar and ensuring the welfare of its people.
