President of the United States Donald Trump maintained Myanmar’s designation as a country posing an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States. As a result, on 10 February 2021, President Trump signed Executive Order 14014, declaring a state of emergency under the National Security Act concerning the situation in Myanmar. He also announced on 6 February that the order would be extended for another year. 1
The extension makes it possible to prolong the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Myanmar nationals currently in the United States and continue providing humanitarian aid for the survival of refugees along the Thailand-Myanmar border. Furthermore, other programs related to Myanmar can continue without reductions in funding, as pointed out by Dr. Zachary Abuza, a Professor at the National War College in Washington, DC, who specializes in Southeast Asian politics and security issues. In addition, President Trump’s response to Myanmar is surprising and is also noted as an important symbol. 2
On the other hand, the health care sector has been affected by the temporary suspension of aid by US, and the Myanmar refugee camps in Thailand are trying to continue with the help of Thai authorities. On 3 February, officials from refugee camps in Tak Province in Thailand, Thai authorities and officials from the hospital held a meeting. As a result of the discussion, refugee camps supported by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) will maintain access to hospital facilities and equipment. In case of emergencies, patients from the refugee camps will also be allowed to be sent to Thai hospitals with the approval of Thai authorities. 3
On 29 January, Fair Party MP Kannavee Suebsang presented a proposal to the government in the House of Representatives to allow refugees to work legally. The MP proposed the government allow refugees to work temporarily in Thailand, which would enable them to sustain themselves and contribute to the economy through taxes. He suggested they be allowed to work in Thailand until a long-term solution is found. The suggestion comes after President Donald Trump halted the provision of medical services in refugee camps in Thailand. 4
In a statement released on 30 January, Mr. Anneliese Dodds, the UK Government’s Minister for Development, announced that healthcare services would be provided to nearly one million people across Myanmar in the first half of 2025. This healthcare initiative will include maternal care, nutrition support, and disease treatment. 5
1 President Trump continues to designate Myanmar as a country that still threatens US’s national security, RFA Burmese, 6 February 2025.
2 Pro-democracy groups welcome continued designation of Myanmar as a threat to U.S. security, RFA Burmese, 6 February 2025.
3 Thai authorities will help to provide medical treatment in refugee camps, RFA Burmese, 7 February 2025.
4 Thai MP proposes to allow refugees to work, KIC, 31 January 2025.
5 Healthcare will be delivered to nearly one million people across Myanmar, UK announces, KIC, 3 February 2025.