Karenni human rights group warns of impending famine amid systematic attacks on food supplies

Mizzima

The Karenni Human Rights Group (KnHRG) has issued a stark warning regarding a “worrying” threat of future famine in Karenni State as severe economic blockades and systematic destruction of agricultural sectors continue to intensify.

According to a comprehensive report released by KnHRG on 14 May, the escalating food security crisis is being driven by targeted military attacks on domestic food supplies and local income sources, compounding a total loss of livelihood for both residents and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The crisis is further exacerbated by skyrocketing commodity prices and high inflation driven by global economic instability.

“While the people are striving to survive using local resources, they remain in desperate need of emergency humanitarian aid and security protection,” the statement said.

KnHRG warned that ongoing fighting, blockades, and rising fuel costs have restricted the flow of goods, leading to high inflation and increased livelihood pressures, which severely impact the public’s access to basic goods and services.

Furthermore, the state’s vital agricultural areas have suffered significant paddy losses due to the presence of junta troops, arrests during harvest seasons, and the deliberate flooding of fields. Farmers face immense challenges in replanting this year, compounded by the surging price of fuel.

Consequently, KnHRG urged the international community to provide aid for over 200,000 IDPs in Karenni State and to coordinate cross-border humanitarian access. They also called for continued financial support and resources from international organizations to meet urgent food and shelter needs, while collaborating to effectively utilize local resources.

KnHRG had previously issued a warning regarding the potential for famine in Karenni State in November 2025.

KnHRG noted that the state’s socio-economic situation has shown no improvement; instead, the public continues to face increasingly severe livelihood struggles.

On the other hand, the report mentioned that clashes are likely to intensify again as the junta attempts to regain control of key strategic highways within the state.