Diakonia mobilizes emergency aid for Myanmar earthquake

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, killing over 2,000 people and devastating the Mandalay and Sagaing regions. Diakonia has responded by allocating emergency funds for immediate assistance while launching a fundraising campaign to help affected communities. 

The earthquake, which measured 7.7 on the Richter scale, caused extensive damage, particularly in the areas around the epicenter, Mandalay, and Sagaing. The tremors were also strongly felt in neighboring Thailand. The earthquake is considered one of the most devastating events in the region in over a century. It has affected an unknown number of people, as the destruction is widespread—roads, countless buildings, and homes have collapsed. Diakonia’s partner organization estimates that over 1 million people have been impacted, including their own staff and their families. 

“The smell of dead bodies hangs over the affected areas, and so far, it is difficult to grasp the full extent of what has happened,” says Bandit Yuenyongtham, who is leading the efforts in the region. 

The rescue operation is being obstructed 
Since February 2021, Myanmar has been under military rule following a coup that ousted the democratically elected government. This has led to widespread protests, civil disobedience, and ongoing conflict between the military junta and various opposition groups. The violence and instability have forced many people to flee their homes, either internally within Myanmar or across borders, seeking refuge in neighboring countries.  

 Despite the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar, the military junta has reportedly continued airstrikes in opposition-held areas, including Mandalay. The earthquake has further exacerbated these challenges, damaging infrastructure and overwhelming already limited support systems, which has increased the suffering of those who were already vulnerable due to the ongoing conflict.  

Access to information and coordination of rescue operations remain severely restricted due to the junta-imposed internet shutdown that has been in place since 2021. In Sagaing, schools and religious institutions have collapsed during the earthquake, trapping many inside. The absence of an adequate emergency response has left countless individuals without urgent medical care, further endangering lives. 

In the face of these challenges, volunteers, civil society organizations (CSOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are leading rescue efforts in Mandalay, Sagaing, and other affected regions. 

Diakonia’s Response 

Diakonia is currently mobilizing resources to provide emergency aid and support to those affected. A disaster response operation focusing on delivering food, water, medicine, and hygiene kits has been initiated. Working closely with trusted local partners such as World Concern Myanmar (WCM), Diakonia is ensuring that aid reaches those in need despite logistical barriers. An additional fund has been allocated to another local partner for further protection to earthquake survivors facing heightened risks due to their role in defending human and civil rights. 

A fundraising campaign in Sweden has been launched to expand support for those affected in Myanmar. Donations will go directly to lifesaving relief efforts, ensuring that essential aid reaches vulnerable communities without passing through military-controlled channels.  

As the situation continues to develop, Diakonia remains committed to providing timely assistance and will share updates as more information becomes available.