To adapt to the evolving needs and the new operating and security environment following the February 2021 military coup, CHRO has reorganized its operational structure to better reflect current realities. We have restructured into two primary divisions: the Human Rights Division and the Humanitarian Division, allowing us to address the dual challenges of human rights violations and the humanitarian crisis faced by the Chin people in northwest Myanmar.
The decision to expand our programming to include humanitarian assistance is driven by the scale of the crisis in the post-coup context, where more than half of the population has now been displaced due to military expansion, escalating conflict, and widespread human rights abuses. The absence of established organizations with the capacity to respond to the rapidly growing humanitarian needs made it necessary for CHRO to step in. With nearly three decades of experience addressing crises in Chin State, CHRO is uniquely positioned to meet this challenge.
At the same time, we are committed to building the capacity of local actors and nurturing partnerships with local civil society and community-based organizations (CSOs and CBOs). This approach ensures that humanitarian efforts will be sustainable and locally led, ensuring long-term continuity in addressing the crisis.
The Human Rights Division
Human Rights Division is a combination of two thematic programs under the previous structure: Human Rights Documentation Program and Human Rights Education & Freedom of Religion or Belief Program. The new Division has two program units, each headed by a manager: Documentation & Investigation Unit and Justice and Accountability Unit.
Documentation & Investigation Unit:
The Documentation and Investigation Unit is led by a Manager (previously Program Director for Human Rights Documentation) and is responsible for overseeing all human rights documentation efforts and data management. This includes close coordination with the Manager of the Justice & Accountability Unit (previously Program Director) and the Advocacy and Research Coordinator. The Unit collects, stores, and maintains human rights-related data and information, while managing field staff involved in documentation and data collection across all projects. It also conducts field investigations into specific crimes based on the organization’s priorities. Additionally, the Unit provides physical protection for vulnerable individuals and human rights defenders at risk, and manages shelter, financial, and medical support programs, depending on available resources.
Justice & Accountability Unit:
Led by a Manager (previously Program Director for HRE & FoRB), the Justice and Accountability Unit focuses on advancing justice and accountability for serious human rights abuses, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Unit is tasked with building case files, analyzing data, evaluating trends, and facilitating strategic litigation efforts, particularly under Universal Jurisdiction. It conducts thematic training programs, coaches and mentors human rights monitors and documenters, and works closely with partner institutions and international accountability mechanisms. The Unit coordinates its efforts with the Documentation and Investigation Unit, the Research and Advocacy Coordinator, and the Deputy Executive Director, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pursuing justice for human rights violations.
The Humanitarian Division
Humanitarian Division was created to provide life-saving assistance to Chin communities facing crisis while ensuring that their fundamental rights are protected, recognizing that humanitarian aid must be delivered with a focus on dignity, safety, and long-term justice. To provide effective and streamlined response to the complex humanitarian needs inside Chin State and along the India-Myanmar/Burma border, the Division was divided into two units headed by Program Managers:
The Emergency Response and Community Resilience Unit provides rapid, life-saving assistance to communities affected by conflict and displacement, while building their capacity to withstand future crises. This unit focuses on immediate relief, such as food, shelter, and essential supplies, while fostering long-term resilience through community-led initiatives.
The Health and Protection Unit ensures access to essential healthcare and safeguards vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and the elderly. It addresses critical health needs and promotes protection from violence and exploitation, integrating a rights-based approach into all aspects of humanitarian assistance.