Toronto, ON, March 28, 2025 — Following the powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake which struck Myanmar this morning, Haider Yaqub, Country Director for Plan International in Myanmar, has provided the following statement for media:

“Although a full picture of the damage is still emerging, most of us have never seen such destruction. There are high levels of stress and anxiety, as people are trying to reach their relatives, and disinformation is spreading on social media.

“Without a doubt, the humanitarian needs will be significant. We are working hard to make contact with communities in the hardest hit areas in and around Mandalay, but already, we know that critical infrastructure has been destroyed, with landlines not functioning, and that houses and other buildings have collapsed not just in Myanmar but in neighbouring Thailand as well.

“This disaster strikes when Myanmar is already grappling with conflict, and we are extremely concerned about the toll that yet another crisis will take on children, especially girls, and their families.

“Plan International, which has worked in Myanmar since 2008, has experienced staff in the country. We are working urgently to get additional teams on the ground, assess needs and stand ready to provide support.”

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About Plan International Canada

Plan International Canada is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. Plan International has been building powerful partnerships for children for over 85 years and is now active in more than 80 countries.

We stand with children, especially girls, wherever they are oppressed, exploited, left behind or not equally valued. We’re determined optimists and will continue to persevere until we are all equal.

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Plan International Canada
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