Civilian casualties in southern Myanmar have surged throughout August due to ongoing clashes in Mon, Karen, and Karenni states, as well as the Tanintharyi Region, according to a report from the Rehmonnya Institute for Civic Engagement (RICE), a local research organization.
The report states that intensified fighting between the military junta and resistance forces in these areas has resulted in a significant rise in civilian deaths and injuries.
In August alone, 26 civilians were killed and 34 injured, mostly due to mortar shelling, bombardments, and landmine explosions. These incidents have caused widespread fear and devastation in the affected regions.
“Last year, the rate of human rights violations stood at about 50%. But in 2024, that figure has risen to around 80%, meaning there has been a substantial increase in human rights abuses, especially in Mon State. More civilians are being arrested, injured by shelling, stepping on landmines, or caught in crossfire,” said a representative from the Rehmonnya Institute.
The report also highlighted that the junta’s enforcement of military service laws and the push to form “public security forces” have further exacerbated human rights violations in the region.
“As we look back on the revolutionary path in 2024, the flames of war have only grown stronger, particularly in Mon State. The fighting is more intense, and villages and towns are being engulfed by the conflict. This, in turn, leads to increased human rights violations. We expect the conflict to escalate even further,” the representative added.
During August, 84 direct clashes occurred between the military junta and resistance groups in southern Myanmar. The junta launched 96 mortar attacks, 3 drone strikes, 16 air raids, and 30 indiscriminate attacks, according to the report.
The military junta continued to commit human rights violations during this period, arresting 58 civilians under various pretexts. Furthermore, more than 6 homes were destroyed by artillery fire, and over 60 houses were burned down. As a result, more than 7,500 civilians have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
