The British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing remain gravely concerned with the situation in Myanmar, now one of the world’s most critical humanitarian crises. At the forefront of our concern are the persistent and targeted attacks on health care workers and facilities, and the resulting near collapse of the health care system.

This week 5 years ago, the Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s Armed Forces, staged a military coup and seized control of the government. Since then, armed conflict has waged; with civilians, particularly protestors and healthcare professionals, being directly and brutally attacked, arbitrarily arrested, and killed by Myanmar security forces.

Attacks on health care and barriers to accessing health care services have been widespread and have intensified over the years. Medical supplies have been confiscated or blocked. Violent incidences and airstrikes against health care facilities have caused extensive and irreparable damage. Hospitals and clinics have been repurposed for military means.

Such actions have resulted in the reduction or complete cessation of health care services, restricting civilian access to health care and medication - all in clear violation of international humanitarian law and medical neutrality, which demand that medical facilities and workers be protected from attack or interference.

The health-related human rights of health care professionals and patients have been consistently breached. Health care workers must be allowed to carry out their duties without fear of arrest or risk of harm. Instead, they are forced to care for patients in extremely dangerous environments without adequate access to necessary resources, and where they themselves could be killed. Since 2024, over 70% of health care professionals have fled the country, reducing the capacity of the overall workforce and impacting access to health care.

We urge the Tatmadaw to respect the principle of medical neutrality and their duties under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Attacks on health care workers, health care infrastructure, patients, and civilians must end, and health care must be provided without impediment.