Tearfund has been supporting projects in Myanmar (Burma) since the 1970s.
We have two main Christian partners in the country – the Myanmar Baptist Convention and World Concern Myanmar.
Myanmar Baptist Convention
The strength of the Myanmar Baptist Convention is its links with 4,000 churches across the country, having more than 1.5 million baptised members.
As a result it has access to a vast number of volunteers which it can mobilise when needed.
It was formed in 1865 and is the largest Christian organisation in Myanmar. It works with 16 regional language conventions around the country.
The Baptist Convention has experience of relief work as within its structure it has a department specially trained in emergency response.
These staff have previously been involved in cyclone and flooding incidents.
With its national headquarters in the former capital of Yangon, it has well established links with the authorities, enabling it to act swiftly in times of crisis.
In normal times, Tearfund funds the Baptist Convention to work on preventing the spread of HIV, combating malnutrition, helping children at risk, improving water and sanitation and leadership development.
World Concern Myanmar
World Concern Myanmar, which has been working in the country since 1995, is helping with relief efforts in the aftermath of the cyclone.
In partnership with local groups, it is mobilising first response medical and assessment teams into 3 of the worst regions.
But longer term, World Concern’s role will be focused on rehabilitation.
With a staff of 200, it works in communities throughout the country to improve community health, increase access to clean water, promote sustainable agriculture development, provide financial security through micro-finance programs, and care for persons living with HIV and AIDS.
World Concern Myanmar is also engaged in building civil society. This means helping voluntary, charitable, civic and social organisations engage in speaking up for people they represent.
It is therefore well connected, particularly with UN agencies such as the World Food Programme.
It has considerable experience of working in Mon and Karen, two areas badly affected by cyclone Nargis.