In an unusual move, Myanmar’s ruling junta has formally requested international assistance in the wake of the disaster. “We want the international community to give humanitarian aid as soon as possible,” junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun told AFP at a hospital in the affected region.
The military government has declared a state of emergency in six of the hardest-hit areas, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Naypyidaw, and Bago.The extent of the devastation is still unfolding, with widespread damage reported to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. Myanmar’s government has called for urgent blood donations in the worst-affected regions, where hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured patients.
UN, WHO, and humanitarian groups mobilise
The United Nations has activated its regional response to provide aid. “The government of Myanmar has asked for international support, and our team in Myanmar is already in contact to fully mobilise our resources in the region,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said.
My heart goes out to the people affected by the terrible earthquake that hit parts of Southeast Asia today.
I send my condolences to the governments and people of the region.The @Un system in the region is mobilizing to help those in need.
– António Guterres (@antonioguterres) March 28, 2025
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has dispatched emergency medical supplies from Dubai, focusing on trauma care and urgent medical needs.
UNICEF has also expressed deep concern over the disaster’s impact on children and families, with teams on the ground assessing the humanitarian situation and preparing relief efforts.
UNICEF is deeply concerned about the devastating impact of today’s earthquake in Myanmar on children and families.
Damage has also been reported in parts of Thailand.Our teams are in affected areas to assess impact and prepare humanitarian support.
© UNICEF Myanmar pic.twitter.com/ybUMlbB59V
— UNICEF (@UNICEF) March 28, 2025
India, France, and EU step up relief efforts
India has taken a leading role in regional aid efforts, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirming the country’s commitment to helping Myanmar and Thailand. “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance,” Modi posted on X, adding that he had instructed Indian authorities to coordinate with Myanmar and Thailand on their specific needs.
Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch…
– Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 28, 2025
India, given its geographical proximity and longstanding role in regional disaster relief, is expected to provide rescue teams, medical aid, and essential supplies.
France has also pledged support, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stating that the country is prepared to assist Myanmar and Thailand once their specific requests are made.
Speaking from Shanghai, Barrot confirmed that French diplomatic premises in Bangkok, including the embassy and schools, had been evacuated as a precautionary measure.
The European Union and other international partners are also working on relief efforts, though logistical challenges, including damaged infrastructure and limited access to remote areas, are hampering immediate responses.
Rescue and relief efforts face challenges
The full impact of the earthquake remains unclear, especially in Myanmar, where an ongoing civil war and government-imposed restrictions make access to information difficult.
Photos from the capital, Naypyidaw, show collapsed buildings and emergency crews working to pull victims from the rubble. In Mandalay, roads have buckled, and bridges have been destroyed, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach those in need.
Aftershocks, including a powerful 6.4 magnitude tremor, have further complicated relief operations. International aid agencies and governments continue to coordinate efforts to provide urgent assistance, with further support expected to be announced in the coming days.
