Alternative Asean Network on Burma
campaigns, advocacy and capacity-building for human rights
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DISASTER |
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| On 3 May 2008, cyclone Nargis struck the Irrawaddy delta and wiped out entire villages as it left a path of destruction across five regions. Over seven million people were affected by the storm, with estimates of dead ranging from 25,000 to 100,000 and up to a million homeless. The international community pledged tens of millions of dollars in monetary and material assistance while the SPDC dragged its heels and stymied international aid efforts. By preventing critical and timely humanitarian aid from reaching survivors, the SPDC has put hundreds of thousands of risk of disease and death. Despite UN appeals and the ongoing “major catastrophe”, the junta is poised to push ahead with the 10 May referendum on its sham constitution in areas unaffected by Nargis. From the failure to warn and evacuate people to a slow and inadequate response, Nargis has obliterated the facade of competence the SPDC is still desperate to project. |
