Myanmar conflict reaches the border – refugees seek refuge in Thailand

The violence in Myanmar Karen-state has intensified after Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) forces attacked a military base near the border. Over 100 people, mainly women, children and the elderly, have fled to Thailand via natural border crossings in Yesprovince.

The Thai military and local authorities have been mobilized to offer humanitarian assistance. The incident is part of an escalating conflict that has been going on for several years, but where violence has recently increased near the border areas.

Facts: What is the conflict in Karen State?

Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) is the armed branch of the Karen National Union (KNU), an ethnic minority movement that has fought for decades for increased autonomy for the Karen people in eastern Myanmar.

The conflict has been ongoing in various forms since the late 1940s. In recent years, the KNLA has become one of the most active groups in the resistance to Myanmar's military regime, especially after the coup in February 2021.

Background: Why is violence increasing now?

The current attack on the military base in Paan district is reportedly a response to a drone attack on the residence of the KNLA's top commander. The conflict has escalated with increased use of drones, artillery and targeted attacks by both sides.

Several civilian villages have been affected, leading to a new wave of internal displacement within Myanmar and refugees across the border to Thailand.

Thailand's response

Thailand has not taken a political position on the conflict but is actively working with border control and humanitarian aid. In Tak province, the situation is being monitored by military units and security agencies in Tha Song Yangdistrict. If the violence continues, the number of refugees is expected to increase further in the coming days.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Steve Sandford, Wikimedia, original image