Quarterly Highlight: January – March 2026
During the first quarter of 2026, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kawthoolei increased by approximately 16,858 people. This rise was primarily due to intensified military movements by the SAC following the election period. SAC forces escalated pressure on communities through airstrikes, artillery shelling, and military operations in mixed-control and ethnic areas, creating widespread fear and insecurity among civilians.
- Taw Oo District: Displacement increased by around 2,000 people as a result of artillery shelling in Htaw Hta Htu (Htan Hta Pin) and Nor Phar Ko (Than Daung) Townships.
- Kler Lwee Htoo District: Recent SAC military operations in Ler Doh (Kyaut Kyi) Township led to serious violations against civilians, with approximately 20 reported cases of abuse. These incidents caused an estimated 3,000 additional IDPs in the district.
- Hpa-an District: The most significant increase occurred here, with displacement rising by approximately 12,000 people due to intensified armed clashes between SAC forces and ethnic armed groups, as SAC attempted to gain full control over mixed-control areas.
Currently, many IDPs are living under insecure and unstable conditions. With ongoing threats from airstrikes, artillery attacks, and military operations, there are growing concerns that further violence and human rights violations may occur if the conflict escalates.
More information at cidkp.org/…/IDP_Population_Mar__2026_1.pdf