Increasing migration in Myanmar is both a result of, and giving rise to, some of the most significant humanitarian challenges of the recent years. Nowadays, the large-scale movements of migrants, including displaced persons, in different regions such as around the
Greater Mekong Sub-Region, have dramatically highlighted the vulnerabilities and potential risks facing migrants, particularly those in an irregular situation. Myanmar is one of the top five countries of origin globally for refugees, with large numbers of refugees hosted in neighboring countries and across the region. More than 4 million of Myanmar migrants travelling to Thailand, China, Malaysia and Singapore and vast majority of them are undocumented and in “irregular status” with regular deportations back to Myanmar.

The reasons for people migrating are complex, and are often a combination of these and other social, cultural factors and in many cases results in critical humanitarian needs. Many people cross borders to find work, and an increasing number are moving as a
result of climate change. These movements typically include a mix of people moving due to fear of persecution, conflict and violence, human rights violations, poverty and lack of economic prospects, or natural disasters. There are also considerable humanitarian concerns related to trafficking (within and from Myanmar), people smuggling, extortion, debt bondage and physical exploitation. Statelessness and migration are also a critical humanitarian challenge.

The Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) adopted a 10-point Action Plan on Migration and Displacement in September 2018. In accordance with the Action Plan, the MRCS requested the support of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (“the Movement”) to strengthen its operational and strategic focus on the humanitarian needs of migrants and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The Action Plan led to the establishment of the MRCS Task Force on Migration and Displacement and the MRCS Partner Working Group on Migration and Displacement.