Summary Overview and Analysis

Civilians are under constant attack and face serious threats to their overall well- being in targeted areas of the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM), including Mon State, Karen State, and the Tanintharyi region. The escalation of assaults by the military junta has deprived children of safe pathways to education and seriously undermined livelihood opportunities for families.

With their homes still inaccessible, many villagers have been forced to take refuge in the mountains, forests, and plantations near Pha Lan Chaung Wa and Upper Yit Chaung villages, under the control of the New Mon State Party. Some families from Well Bine and Well Zin have attempted to return, but they only stay home during the day and retreat to the nearby forests and plantations for safety at night. In a case documented by HURFOM at the beginning of the month, the junta’s violent and unpredictable presence prevented 500 internally displaced people from returning to their villages. “Even those who returned to their villages can only stay during daylight hours. Once night falls, they have no choice but to sleep elsewhere for their safety,” a recently returned villager said.

Despite no active fighting around Kyone Long (Old) village in Ye Township, Mon State, junta troops remain stationed in the area, preventing 456 displaced villagers from going home. Junta soldiers set up camp at a monastery in Eye Poke village, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity for those who fled.

For those still displaced, the uncertainty continues. As long as junta troops occupy their villages, returning home remains a distant hope, especially as enforced disappearances are on the rise. “We don’t dare to return as long as the military is in the village. It’s simply not safe. Right now, going back home would mean risking our lives,” said a displaced villager.

Eighteen displaced villagers from Thein Khun village, Tanintharyi Township, who the military junta arrested during its offensive operations, remain in detention more than a week later, with no contact with their families. Local sources and aid workers assisting displaced persons have confirmed their continued disappearance.

Download full report