Creating Peace in Myanmar (nickname: Chit Chit Khin Khin) was started in August 2022 by Myanmar residents in Japan and Japanese volunteers, in response to the worsening situation in Myanmar since the military coup in February 2021. "Chit Chit Khin Khin" means "close friends" in Burmese, and all members work as volunteers.
Its activities rest on three pillars. The first is humanitarian aid in food, medical care and education, delivered together with local volunteer groups to where it is needed. The second is awareness-raising to increase the number of people who pay attention to Myanmar, through university classes and talks. The third is consultation for international students and technical trainees in Japan, along with support for job hunting and visas.
Recent reports include emergency aid for people affected by floods and airstrikes, and tuition support for displaced university students along the Thai-Myanmar border (42,000 Thai baht, about 200,000 yen). It is also recruiting monthly supporters for continued, long-term aid.
Key points
- A volunteer-run group of Myanmar residents in Japan and Japanese supporters
- Three pillars: humanitarian aid, awareness-raising, and support for international students and trainees in Japan
- Shares concrete reports on its activities and how support is used
Why this organization's work stands out
Even as news coverage of Myanmar has declined, it carries out aid on the ground, awareness-raising in Japan, and support for young Myanmar people living in Japan at the same time.
Its activities at home and abroad are linked by the belief that supporting the future of Myanmar's youth also leads to peace. Activity reports are published regularly, which is a useful reference when considering support.
Editor's comment
The wish for a society without conflict that is built into the name "close friends" stayed with me.
Its latest activity reports and lecture announcements are available on the official website. Please take a look as a first step to learning about Myanmar.