Continued violence and the collapse of health services in Myanmar drove thousands of people over the border into northwestern Thailand, in search of refuge and assistance in camps or other areas hosting migrant communities. Many lived in precarious conditions, facing legal uncertainty, restricted mobility, and limited access to public services. In addition, severe budget cuts, due to reduced US funding, have diminished food and healthcare, causing direct health consequences, such as malnutrition and harmful coping strategies.  

In these border areas, MSF helped with referrals to facilities in Mae Hong Son state, in northern Thailand, for patients from Kayah and Kayin states (also known as Karenni and Karen, respectively), in eastern Myanmar, who needed specialised care but were unable to obtain it in their home country due to the conflict. We also started providing mental health services in a patient house for refugees in Mae Sariang, where people can stay to recover from surgery.