Women account for 57 percent of displaced population in Arakan State

By Admin 21 Aug 2026

DMG Newsroom

21 August 2026, Kyauktaw

More than 500,000 people have been displaced by military conflicts in Arakan State, with women accounting for 57 percent of the displaced population and facing major challenges related to health, hygiene and personal security.

A research bulletin released this month by the Institute for Strategy and Policy-Myanmar (ISP-Myanmar) noted that displaced women face insecure living conditions due to a lack of designated toilets and bathing areas in displacement camps.

"Toilets and bathing facilities are totally inadequate. Nothing is convenient or sanitary. Every morning, people line up for the toilet. The doors are broken and blow open when the wind blows, leaving us with no privacy. It is unsafe for a girl to go to the toilet alone," said Daw Ma Hsan Kyaw from a displacement camp near Kyauktaw railway station.

Due to limited access to healthcare, women face personal hygiene challenges, while pregnant and lactating mothers suffer from malnutrition.

High prices for sanitary pads make them unaffordable for many, while aid deliveries remain scarce, leaving female camp residents with significant health concerns.

"Distribution of sanitary items is irregular and insufficient. Those who cannot afford them have to go without. When we face such situations, we feel too ashamed to go outside or speak to people. We urge organizations to provide sufficient latrines and menstrual hygiene products," said Ma Nandar Win, a volunteer and displaced person from Kyaukphyu Township, speaking to DMG.

Displaced residents facing health issues are requesting assistance and regular healthcare services.

Displaced persons in Taungup, Thandwe, Gwa and Ramree townships receive minimal aid and face severe hardship, according to a local relief worker from Taungup.

"Displaced people here face immense difficulties, including inadequate toilets and a shortage of menstrual products for women. Few aid organizations operate in this area, and with jobs being scarce, livelihood conditions are extremely difficult," he said.

In addition to limited humanitarian aid, healthcare challenges affect displaced women most severely.

ISP-Myanmar noted that military conflict, alongside security concerns, humanitarian crises and socioeconomic impacts in Arakan State, continues to inflict physical and psychological distress on Arakanese women.