Photo courtesy of CIDKP

Ethnic Conflict Intensifies in Burma

Armed conflict in ethnic minority areas has escalated since the November 2010 elections were conducted in Burma. The breakdown of the ceasefire between the Kachin Independence Organisation and the central government in June is the latest in a series of blows to the prospects for national reconciliation. Over 11,000 civilians have been displaced while key infrastructure has been sabotaged since fighting began in Kachin State. This follows the Tatmadaws resumption of hostilities against the SSA-North in March after 22 years of a ceasefire and despite calls from the latter for dialogue to resolve differences relating to the Border Guard Force. Hundreds of refugees from Laikha, Kyehti, Monghsu and Kunhing Townships in central Shan State have arrived in Thailands Fang district since April. These refugees verified earlier reports from Shan community organisations that indiscriminate artillery attacks by the Tatmadaw had affected at least 10,000 people. Conflict between the Tatmadaw and a breakaway DKBA battalion in Karen State has been ongoing since the elections in November. Over 6,000 refugees remain sheltering in 21 unofficial sites along the Thailand border in June, but international access and protection is restricted and funding for food aid is almost exhausted. Skirmishes and indiscriminate attacks continue in Kyain Seikgyi Township, while three more DKBA battalions recently defected to resume armed resistance in Hlaingbwe Township.

A Training of Trainers (TOT) on Savings, Loans and Micro Insurance was conducted for three days in Mae Ra Ma Luang Camp to develop the relevant knowledge and skills of camp based staff and members of camp based organizations. This Savings, Loans and Micro Insurance Pilot Programme aims at creating a fund for refugees, which they can use for their household and entrepreneurial needs. This programmes long term strategy is to develop the entrepreneurial capabilities of refugees and to help them generate income regularly through access to micro loans.

TOT on Savings, Loans and Micro Insurance in Mae Ra Ma Luang

TBBC recently held our annual staff workshop, which is the only opportunity that all staff have to meet together as one organisation. The first day included an update on TBBCs organisational restructuring and succession plans, an exploration of TBBCs core value, the introduction of new security protocols, and a review of UNHCRs recent Gender Dialogue with Women and Girls. The second day started with staff directing questions for managements response, and then an introduction of the revised SPHERE standards and humanitarian charter was facilitated by Church World Service. Entertainment in the evenings included a film night, staff party and recognition for staff who have provided TBBC with 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service. As always, the workshop was a great opportunity to learn more about each other and develop as an organisation.

Annual staff workshop

Thomas Ramsler

We regret to inform that Thomas Ramsler, our very special Shelter Expert, passed away due to a cardiac arrest in Bangkok on Tuesday, June 7th. Thomas had been contributing greatly to the development of our complex and very important refugee shelter pro-gramme. Thomas started with TBBC in February 2010 and in just over a year had brought many innovative and resourceful ideas to fruition. Thomas will also be remembered for his dry sense of humour and for his lip syncing stage performance at the recent annual staff workshop. Thomas will forever be remembered at TBBC. Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to his wife, Branca, and children, Lea and Carlo.

www.tbbc.org