Dialogue between government representatives and a range of non-state armed groups during the past month have raised hopes that a comprehensive peace process is emerging. As negotiations for preliminary ceasefire agreements continue, the establishment of benchmarks and monitoring mechanisms for peace processes as well as consultation with displaced persons will be key challenges in 2012.

The potential for an end to conflict and abuse in South East Burma makes it even more important to maintain support for displaced persons along the border. Given the global economic recession and increasing rice prices in Thailand, TBBC is facing a 185 million baht (US$6 million) funding shortfall in the year ahead. While we will continue fundraising, this shortfall has necessitated plans to reduce programme costs by 12% in 2012.

As a result, the monthly food ration will be adjusted to provide an average of 1,640 kcals / person / day, which is 22% below the international minimum standard of 2,100 kcals / person / day. As general food rations are reduced, TBBC will increase efforts to protect the most vulnerable. Supplementary feeding programmes will target pregnant / lactating women and all children aged 6-24 months, support for nursery school lunches will be maintained and community-managed targeting to identify other vulnerable groups will be introduced.

TBBC staff redoubled efforts during the past month to inform refugee camp communities about these changes and reassure them that we remain committed to minimising the hardships that reductions in basic assistance are likely to induce. At the same time, TBBC staff have been conducting the annual population verification process to ensure records of those living in the camps and eligible for rations are up to date.

We all hope that recent political changes in Burma will lead to the resolution of ethnic conflict, but until such time, please be assured of TBBC’s commitment to continue supporting refugees.