April in Myanmar is traditionally a month of joy, reflection and deep significance for the Buddhist community and beyond. It coincides with Thingyan, a vibrant celebration akin to Thailand’s Songkran festival. Rather than embracing the dawn of a new year with delight, however, Myanmar finds itself burdened with the harrowing ordeal of relentless violence perpetrated by the junta.

In April, the military conducted 17 airstrikes, deliberately aimed at innocent civilians, resulting in a tragic loss of life. Reports vary on their estimates of the number of casualties, with some sources suggesting around 200 people were killed.

In the latest update of “What’s happening in Myanmar” by Seajunction, Debbie Stothard, the founder coordinator of ALTSEAN-Burma, shared significant findings from a recently published court watch report.

During April, 22,103 armed clashes and attacks took place. Additionally, approximately 1,499,400 people have been displaced since February 2021. The junta’s troops carry out relentless acts of violence, continuing their reign of terror.

The junta committed its most devastating air strike thus far, claiming the lives of 200 civilians, in Sagaing just before the Thingyan festival. The incident was followed by a “clearance operation”.

In the first half of April, the junta reportedly escalated its attacks on healthcare workers and facilities, exacerbating an already dire situation for those in need of medical assistance.

Adding to the grave concerns, General Min Aung Hlaing approved a 51% increase in military spending for 2023-2024. An act which only highlights their prioritization of military might.

By Truong Khanh Thi Nguyen