Introduction 

Since the attempted coup on 1 February 2021 in Burma, civilians across the country, including those in Karenni State, have experienced widespread suffering. Attacks by the junta have been both targeted and indiscriminate, with the most vulnerable in Karenni communities enduring immense hardship and struggle. The Karenni Human Rights Group (KnHRG) has documented an alarming number of deaths and injuries in recent years. In 2024, the military junta perpetrated airstrikes, artillery and mortar shelling, and others, which led to 106 civilians being killed and 234 wounded.

KnHRG is a grassroots, independent, Karenni-led human rights organization established on 18 May 2016. It operates across all seven townships in Karenni State and partially in the Karenni region (southern Shan State), Burma. KnHRG was formed by local Karenni people and experienced youth who are long-standing human rights activists, land issue advocates, women’s rights activists, and community development practitioners, who have extensively documented the human rights situation.

Burma is experiencing a worsening humanitarian crisis driven by power-hungry generals and military commanders. As the offensives escalate, the number of refugees is also steadily increasing along Burma’s borders with Thailand, China, India, and Bangladesh. During armed conflict, women and children suffer the most, as they make up the majority of internally displaced persons (IDPs). While thousands seek refuge, the regime has responded by blocking humanitarian aid to those most in need and targeting first responders.

According to documentation by KnHRG, the number of those displaced rose sharply from 180,000 in 2023, to 210,000 in 2024. This surge has caused significant shortages in health and protection services, as demand far exceeds the available funding and resources to address the gaps. Karenni civil society organizations, such as KnHRG, have focused on creating advocacy strategies and developing new projects through coordination and the sharing of materials. Even so, trauma remains widespread in conflict-affected communities. In response, civil society organizations (CSOs) are urgently working to provide compassionate and timely support.

Deliberate attacks on civilians by junta forces in villages and towns have forced civilians to flee. More than 40 percent of the estimated total Karenni population has been forcibly displaced. The five townships of Loikaw, Hpruso, Shadaw, Demoso and Pekhon have been almost entirely abandoned. Countless people have lost their homes, businesses, and livelihoods in the wake of the junta’s attacks. The military’s mismanagement of the economy has also negatively impacted civilians. The value of the local currency, the Myanmar kyat, also continues to decline, and inflation is rising as the junta has restricted imports and exports.

In addition to ongoing indiscriminate attacks from both the air and ground, the regime has restricted the freedom of movement in Karenni State with increased military checkpoints in areas under their control. Civilians who pose any undetermined threat are taken out of their vehicles and interrogated in military custody, which can often lead to torture and ill-treatment. Internet shutdowns are also taking place simultaneously throughout the state, disrupting communications in emergencies.

Despite the many obstacles in the current socio-political context in Karenni State and across Burma, KnHRG has worked towards our vision of promoting a society that respects and upholds human rights and Karenni culture. Through its mission, KnHRG is committed to fostering a peaceful, tolerant, and democratic society.

KnHRG is sincerely thankful for its supporters, whose steadfast commitment and financial support have been crucial to our advocacy and activities. Our efforts are bolstered by the contributions of public and private donors, who have supplied the necessary resources and funding to enhance our capabilities, raise awareness, and inspire hope in these challenging times. Moreover, this assistance has made our accomplishments possible and united us in pursuing a federal, free, and democratic Burma.

This annual report summarizes KnHRG’s significant achievements, and the ongoing challenges we are addressing. It will end with our plans and recommendations for key stakeholders in the coming year as well as our financial expenditures.

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