BRI Welcomes $121 Million U.S. Assistance for Burma in FY2026 Appropriations

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ellicott City, Maryland – Burma Research Institute (BRI) today welcomes President Trump’s signing of H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026, on February 3, 2026, which averted a government shutdown.

The bill’s explanatory statement under Section 7043 outlines assistance for Burma consistent with the Burma Act of 2022, retaining essential restrictions against the Burmese military junta and support for pro-democracy movement and embattled religious and ethnic minorities. The law specifies $121 million appropriation under the following funding areas:

  • $75,000,000 – Assistance programs, including in Thailand and India, and cross-border programs
  • $25,000,000 – Non-lethal assistance
  • $10,000,000 – Governance and federalism programs
  • $7,000,000 – Atrocities prevention and accountability programs
  • $1,500,000 – Support for political prisoners
  • $1,500,000 – Deserter programs
  • $1,000,000 – Rohingya accountability and justice programs

Implementation Timeline

With FY2026 running from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, approximately eight months remain for implementation, the State Department should ensure these funds reach stakeholders identified in the Burma Act of 2022, including the National Unity Government, Ethnic Resistance Organizations, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, and civil society organizations.

“This appropriation demonstrates bipartisan congressional commitment to Burma’s democratic future,” said Zo Tum Hmung, President & CEO of BRI. “BRI has long advocated for this assistance, and we will continue urging Congress to ensure full implementation by the Administration.” Mr. Hmung further said.

“Given the current administration’s approach to international nonprofit organizations and UN agencies, BRI emphasizes the importance of establishing effective channels to ensure resistance groups and democratic stakeholders can access these critical resources”, said by Dr. Robin Stoops, BRI Board Chair.

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