INTERNATIONAL: The volatile situation in Myanmar following the February 2021 coup has resulted in increased displacement both within the country and across borders, including into Thailand. It’s hard to pretend that nothing happened. They have witnessed it. And everyone who lives near the area experienced the horror of it.

The horrors of wars have shadowed people’s path in life, especially those who who live along the border, following intensification of clashes .

Like the residents of the Mae Sariang district, with mixed origins, that live on the narrow valley along Salween river in the Mae Hong Son province, Thailand, which borders Myanmar, have been sharing their stories of horror and owe as a result of the Myanmar military coup.

A small river called the Salween separates the district from Myanmar and the fighting there. It has been reported that the local communities along the borders have been affected by the fighting and as people reporting psychological health issues have skyrocketed.

Villagers were shocked when they saw their properties and homes hit by bullets and some got accustomed to spending their days in shelters underground whenever they hear the sound of fighting nearing. Some villagers who belong to the Christian faith have found serenity and peace in the church, escaping from their reality and the uncertainty in which they live. 

^{Source: A24}