Despite some possibilities arising, the potential for solutions for protracted IDPs in Kachin/ northern Shan State (NSS) have been hampered by: the COVID-19 pandemic, slow progress on the establishment of coordination pathways for the UN and the national authorities, sustained access limitations for IDPs, and limitations in resources to support initiatives by IDPs, local partners and host communities. Dialogue took place between the government and various stakeholders, but clear planning and coordination mechanisms were not yet established. Furthermore, the focus has often remained on top-down planning which overlooks individual and community-driven activities. Finally, the continuing armed conflict in Kachin and NSS, particularly the unpredictable nature of the fighting in NSS, and lack of discernible progress in the peace process continue to preclude large-scale solutions.
In camps, IDPs continue to have access to basic services and assistance, however, livelihoods been impacted by adverse effects of COVID-19. Space and corresponding shelter needs have become more evident as have the recurring needs for repair and renovation of old structures and previously unmet shelter gaps. The impact of the pandemic on people with specific needs (PSN) highlighted the need to explore social protection programs, and to set up a comprehensive national approach to address needs. Vulnerabilities affecting the non-displaced population in host communities equally require attention which is not regularly given within programs designed to support IDPs. Stronger community-based protection initiatives have yet to be reinforced with the active engagement of local authorities. UNHCR continues to look for means to scale-up support in building stronger and more inclusive community-driven initiatives to promote protection and solutions.
In Chin State, access to, and information on, displaced communities in Paletwa remains limited.
In Rakhine, increased/ continued clashes between the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF) and Arakan Army (AA) resulted in new and cyclical internal displacement among communities in 2020. Overall, movements remain fluid and difficult to predict, with frequent reports of new arrivals at some displacement sites and secondary displacement alongside returns. As such, total IDP figures do not reflect all new displacement and returns. IDPs remain concerned that clashes between AA and MAF may resume at any time and as well as about landmine contamination in their villages of origin. The current return of IDPs is location-specific and reflective of the cyclical nature of displacement throughout the conflict.
Under the circumstances, several planned site visits in 2020 were not realized. Due to access and funding constraints, many people with specific needs could not be identified and/or reached.
Despite urgent shelter needs, about 6,000 vulnerable IDP households live in shelters with an expired lifespan or which need minor to major repairs , while solutions for families displaced and living in monasteries remain unmet.
In the South East, humanitarian organizations have limited or no access to IDP camps. As part of a pilot project in 2020, with the possibility to expand, UNHCR provided assistance to establish community-based protection mechanisms in 19 villages and peaceful co-existence activities in four villages in coordination with local organizations who have access to the areas. According to assessments from the pilot project, poor infrastructure and basic services result in a scarcity of livelihoods opportunities, while awareness raising on protection, human rights and community-based protection issues is required. In addition, there is limited capacity for the host community to accept more IDPs if clashes continue. Increased assistance, including protection and peaceful co-existence activities are needed in these areas.