The Rakhine Women’s Union (RWU) is concerned for the security of women in IDP camps where over 40,000 people are taking shelter due to clashes in northern Arakan State, the chair of the RWU said.

“We are worried for the lives of people living in IDP camps. I can see their physical and mental suffering that are consequences of armed conflicts. We were thinking how we could help them. And we had discussed with international organizations how to provide them with help,” said Daw Saw Mya Razar Linn, the chair of the RWU.

She also said that there are a lot of worries concerning the health of female teenagers who are living in IDP camps.

“Women have to stay in IDP camps without having their own privacy. Then, we have many concerns for the health of female teenagers in the camp. I myself am familiar with the feelings of insecurity and uncertainty when it comes to women’s lives. So, I do not want them to reach that emotional situation,” she said.  

Interlocutors of the fifth conference of the RWU that was held in Sittwe from May 26 to 28 discussed sensitive issues in Arakan State and the difficulties Arakan IDPs face on a daily basis.

Regarding the ongoing conflicts in Arakan State, Daw Saw Mya Razar Linn urged for an end to the wars and both sides must negotiate and reach an agreeable solution for the interest of the country.

“When I was young, I thought that war was sometimes unfortunately necessary. But, today, my attitude has changed. We should settle our problems by negotiating. We have to talk about how our country can abolish oppression among different groups. We must have constructive dialogue to build a peaceful and prosperous country,” she said.

The Rakhine Women’s Union (RWU) was formed with the intention to actively work with Arakanese women, which make up 60 percent of population and empower them so they can work for the country and generate nationalism.