Data Matters No. 40

During post-coup armed conflicts and clashes, at least 57,807 houses and buildings (including religious buildings) have been torched and destroyed as of January 15, 2023. Between November 2022 and mid-January 2023 alone, at least 19,239 houses and buildings were torched and destroyed. Moreover, at least 673 houses and buildings have been torched and destroyed in 10 townships that had previously experienced no acts of arson. Among them, Myingyan township, Sagaing Region experienced the largest amount of destruction with over 300 houses and buildings torched and destroyed.

∎ Why does it matter?

By studying the post-coup situation, further research can be conducted to examine whether there has been a change in conditions related to Myanmar’s peace process. In addition, by looking at the number of civilian fatalities and injuries, how they were killed and wounded, and the number of people displaced by fighting, it is possible to examine whether or not armed forces have committed human rights violations from the perspective of transitional justice.

∎ Other relevant readings

On-the-ground reports from ethnic news organizations and other independent media groups provide regular updates about conflict situations, their impact, and the collateral damage in the aftermath of the military coup. These include reports of civilian fatalities, houses torched, and rising refugee and IDP issues on the ground. In addition, records and reports by United Nations organizations such as the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), and other independent local and foreign organizations also provide information about the ongoing conflict situation in Myanmar.