ChildFund began working in Myanmar in 2012, partnering with local organisations to address the needs of vulnerable children and youth.
Decades of military rule and political isolation left Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, as one of the poorest countries in South-East Asia. Many communities lack basic infrastructure and a large percentage of the population is living in poverty, unable to gain the skills needed to create a better future.
Only half of Myanmar’s children make it to high school. This denies them the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge to reach their full potential.
Myanmar’s child protection system does not provide enough support to children, which puts children at risk of forced labour and trafficking.
ChildFund Australia recognises the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land; and recognise their continuing connection to the land, water and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to Elders past and present.
© ChildFund Australia 2025
There has been uneven progress in terms of upholding children’s rights in Myanmar. Many children have limited opportunities to be heard and share their views, making them vulnerable to abuse and neglect.