In camps in central Rakhine State, after years of displacement, IDPs continue to live in temporary shelters which require regular rehabilitation and construction. Due to the spread of COVID-19 and limitations in access, UNHCR and partners could not cover the needs that had been prioritized for 2020. Despite concerted efforts by shelter partners, at the end of 2020, some 8,000 families continue to live in shelters in need of reconstruction or rehabilitation (5,600 of these families will receive reconstruction support in 2021). In addition, in areas affected by AA-MAF conflict, including Chin State, access restrictions have prevented a comprehensive response especially for newly displaced populations.
While a pilot solar light installation project was continued, at least some 1,000 solar streetlights are still required in priority locations in both camps and host communities. Also, gaps remain with the provision of targeted assistance and in the implementation of a more sustainable response for people with specific needs (PSNs) such as the elderly and people with disabilities.
The number and type of community-based activities remained limited in some priority locations in Rakhine, despite the broader importance of contributing to the creation of a conducive environment for solutions and the promotion of social cohesion among affected communities. Implementation of the full scope of approved projects was constrained by time and geographical limitations.
Overall, the underlining protection and multi-sectorial needs of the stateless population, including on issues related to documentation, freedom of movement and access to livelihoods and social services, remain largely unmet. These needs will only be addressed when a concrete and comprehensive legal, policy and administrative review is conducted and when changes are made in parallel with effective community engagement and dialogue as outlined in the recommendations of Advisory Commission on Rakhine State. These cannot be considered as unmet needs due to funding shortages but instead are a result of structural, systematic discrimination and differential treatment.