Myanmar Country Report

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is an EXTREME RISK country. While Yangon (Rangoon) and Mandalay are generally safe, civil unrest and ongoing armed conflict affect much of the periphery.

Essential Precautions:

• Avoid travelling through unlit areas or travelling alone at night.
• Do not photograph government buildings, civil infrastructure, or military installations.
• Only use ATMs during daylight hours and at large facilities, preferably inside banks with armed guards.
• Avoid street food in general, and only drink bottled water.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests as they can turn violent.

Insurance becomes a priority if you intend to travel or work in Myanmar. Travelling to Myanmar involves several considerations due to the country's political situation, social dynamics, and ongoing conflicts. The situation can change rapidly, so it's essential to consult up-to-date travel advisories from your government or reliable sources like the U.S. State Department, UK Foreign Office, or your country's equivalent. Here are some factors to consider:

Political Situation

Myanmar has experienced political instability and civil unrest, particularly since the military coup in February 2021. The political situation remains fluid, with protests, demonstrations, and sporadic violence occurring in various parts of the country. Travellers should stay informed about the current political climate, follow advice from local authorities, and avoid areas with a history of unrest. As of 2024, violent clashes between military forces and opposition groups continue in various regions. There are reports of intensified airstrikes in the north, particularly affecting the Kachin and Shan states. The situation in Rakhine remains sensitive, with occasional flare-ups between armed groups and government forces. International advisories strongly recommend avoiding non-essential travel to these regions.

Crime and Security Concerns

Civil unrest and medium-intensity but growing armed conflict pose significant risks in peripheral areas, especially in border regions of Shan, Kachin, and Rakhine states. Violent armed clashes between the military and opposition activists are common in major urban centres. Inter-communal tensions have led to anti-Muslim riots in Mandalay and significant violence in Rakhine state, where military forces, attempting to root out insurgents, have killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands. While international terrorist groups do not have a presence in Myanmar, both Al-Qaeda in the Indian Sub-Continent (AQIS) and the Islamic State in the Philippines (ISIS-P) have threatened to launch attacks in Myanmar in response to the Rakhine crisis. Transnational crime organisations operate freely in the "Golden Triangle" region bordering Thailand and Laos, where illicit drug traffickers are often unchecked. While foreign visitors are generally respected by locals and mostly left alone, there is a moderate risk of opportunistic petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas. Violent crime in major cities is uncommon. Police services are unreliable, and traffic stops are often used to solicit bribes. While it is strongly advised to avoid travel to conflict regions such as Shan, Kachin, and Rakhine states, we understand that some of our clients may need to travel to these areas for work. We urge clients to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant in such cases, given the volatile nature of the region.

Humanitarian Situation

Myanmar has faced humanitarian crises, including the displacement of civilians, human rights abuses, and restricted humanitarian access. The situation is particularly dire for ethnic minority groups, including the Rohingya population in Rakhine State. Travellers should be aware of the humanitarian challenges and exercise sensitivity when discussing topics related to ethnicity and politics.

Medical & Health Risk

Myanmar's healthcare system falls well below international standards. The civil conflict has worsened an already poor health system. While some adequate facilities exist in Yangon and Mandalay, many rural areas have few medical resources. Trauma care is limited, and emergency services are almost non-existent. Tuberculosis, dengue fever, malaria, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis are serious risks to travellers. Tap water is not safe for consumption. The ongoing conflicts have exacerbated the already poor state of healthcare in conflict zones. Emergency medical evacuation may be required even for relatively minor conditions, as local hospitals are either overwhelmed or destroyed by conflict.

Legal and Regulatory Environment

Myanmar has laws and regulations that differ from those in other countries. Travellers should familiarise themselves with local laws, customs, and cultural norms to avoid violating local regulations. It's important to respect religious sites, cultural traditions, and local customs during your visit.

Environmental Risk

Flooding is common near rivers and tributaries during the May-November monsoon season in central and northern provinces, including Yangon. Typhoons regularly hit the southern coast, particularly in May and November. The most severe of these was Cyclone Nargis which killed over 140,000 people. Myanmar is also prone to earthquakes; its main population centres are vulnerable to severe seismic activity. Myanmar's emergency services and infrastructure are not equipped to handle large-scale natural disasters, often resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life. Dangerous wildlife, including venomous snakes, is present in several regions.

Choosing the Right Cover for Your Trip to Myanmar

Many insurers exclude cover for travel to Myanmar. It is vital to check that your policy includes journeys to this nation. Understand if your policy coverage includes medical expenses, repatriation, crisis management, and kidnap-for-ransom cover. Standards of medical care are low and generally offer poor quality. It may be necessary to evacuate you for medical and other critical care.

Required Vaccinations:

• Yellow Fever if endemic country recently visited

Pre-Trip Checklist:

• Carry a copy of your passport.
• Bring a necessary supply of prescription medication
• Bring a copy of your prescription in case medication is lost or stolen
• Ensure you have an emergency medical evacuation plan in place.
• Research safe regions thoroughly before planning your itinerary, as the security situation can change rapidly in areas outside Yangon and Mandalay.

LGBT Travel Advice for Myanmar

Travelling to Myanmar as an LGBTQ+ individual involves certain risks due to societal attitudes, legal considerations, and safety concerns. Overall, LGBTQ+ travellers to Myanmar should be mindful of the societal attitudes and legal context surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. While Myanmar can be a welcoming and hospitable destination for travellers, LGBTQ+ individuals may encounter challenges and should take precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during their stay. As of 2024, no significant changes have been made to Myanmar's penal code regarding same-sex relationships; however, increased visibility of LGBTQ+ activists has led to more frequent harassment from authorities, especially in rural areas. It's essential to research cultural norms, stay informed about local laws and customs, and exercise discretion while travelling in Myanmar as an LGBTQ+ person.