The use of heavy explosive weapons in Myanmar is having horrific humanitarian consequences for civilians and must cease

SUMMARY: The use of explosive weapons cause deaths, injuries and suffering for the people of Myanmar. After 3 months of protests, violent crackdowns and escalating clashes between the military and non-state armed groups, there are few signs of a decrease in the use of air and ground-launched attacks, including the widespread use of mortars, affecting villages and other populated areas. More than 750 people have been killed during crackdowns by security forces across the country, and many more have been injured while access to emergency medical assistance and rehabilitation is lacking. This new round of violence following the 1 February 2021 military coup is exacerbating needs and vulnerabilities in a country that was already facing pre-existing socio-economic inequalities, armed violence, widespread humanitarian needs, as well as a healthcare system struggling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic.