Internet blackout in Arakan State hampers emergency aid delivery

By Admin 26 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

26 February 2026, Kyauktaw

Civil society organizations (CSOs) say severe internet restrictions in parts of Arakan State controlled by the Arakan Army (AA) are significantly delaying emergency relief and humanitarian operations.

Local, self-funded CSOs are being forced to travel to public internet access points to communicate with donors, causing time-consuming delays that obstruct the timely delivery of emergency assistance.

Previously, limited internet access was available at nearby administrative offices. However, security concerns and the threat of airstrikes by Myanmar’s military regime have compelled aid groups to rely on public internet service sites instead.

Those public locations are also under constant threat of aerial attacks. Slow connection speeds further hinder efforts to reach donors, leaving people in urgent need to bear the consequences of delayed aid.

“The number of IDPs, landmine victims, and people injured by airstrikes is increasing daily. As a local organization, we face immense challenges contacting donors to secure funding for these people. These communication barriers are directly causing delays in emergency aid,” a female official from a Kyauktaw-based CSO told DMG.

The lack of real-time communication also makes it difficult for CSOs to build and maintain trust with donors, who are unable to immediately verify how their contributions are being used on the ground.

“When people do not have equal access to the internet, they remain unaware of ongoing efforts. Donors may contribute, but if they cannot see whether their assistance is effectively reaching beneficiaries, it ultimately harms the people,” said a male member of a CSO in Ponnagyun Township.

Human rights activists stress that access to information and communication is essential for CSOs to meet basic humanitarian needs. The blackout is also depriving students and young people in Arakan State of educational opportunities, employment prospects, and social connectivity.

“Without proper communication, it is nearly impossible for CSOs in Arakan State to provide essential services to the public. This effectively denies people their fundamental rights and access to basic necessities,” an Arakan State-based human rights observer said.

Despite the widespread blackout, the United League of Arakan (ULA) has installed Starlink satellite internet services in some northern Arakan townships, providing limited public access. Since January 2026, the ULA’s technology department has permitted the rental of Starlink terminals for public use.

Humanitarian operations in Arakan State continue to face severe constraints due to the military regime’s tactics, including airstrikes on civilian areas, road blockades, food supply restrictions, and telecommunications shutdowns.

Although sporadic connections were available in parts of Arakan State following the initial shutdown in November 2023, a complete blackout of mobile and internet services has been imposed across the state since October 2024.