How Can Crypto Help Earthquake Victims in Thailand and Myanmar?

A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, last Friday, leaving devastation in its wake. The disaster has already claimed over 2,000 lives, with more than 3,400 injured, and the numbers are expected to rise as reports from neighboring Thailand come in. 

The quake, which originated 10 kilometers below the surface, released energy equivalent to hundreds of nuclear explosions, making it the most powerful earthquake in Myanmar since 1912 and the second deadliest in its modern history.

Rescue teams continue to search for survivors, with hundreds still missing. In Bangkok, around 80 individuals are trapped in a collapsed construction site. 

International aid has started to arrive, with the United Nations pledging $5 million, China committing $13.8 million, and additional support coming from India, Russia, and the U.S.

Why Crypto Matters in This Crisis

In the aftermath of such disasters, traditional financial systems often struggle to facilitate swift aid distribution. Damaged infrastructure, banking delays, and international restrictions can slow down relief efforts. Cryptocurrencies offer a powerful alternative by enabling direct, borderless donations without intermediaries.

Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins like USDC allow instant, transparent transactions, ensuring that funds reach victims faster. Unlike traditional bank transfers, which can take days or even weeks due to bureaucratic hurdles, crypto transactions settle within minutes, making them an ideal tool for emergency relief.

Organizations Accepting Crypto Donations

Several humanitarian organizations have embraced cryptocurrency donations to speed up relief efforts in Myanmar and Thailand. Among them:

• British Red Cross – Welcomes over 70 different cryptocurrencies and tokens for donations.
• Doctors Without Borders – Facilitates crypto contributions through The Giving Block.
• Save the Children – Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDC to fund their initiatives.
• Red Cross – Supports BTC, BCH, ETH, and a variety of stablecoins via BitPay.
• UNICEF – Enables donations in both Bitcoin and Ethereum to aid their missions.

For those willing to donate, official wallet addresses for these organizations can be found on their respective websites. Platforms like The Giving Block also provide a comprehensive list of verified charities accepting crypto donations.

Binance and Crypto Leaders Step Up

The crypto community has already mobilized to assist earthquake victims. Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) announced a donation of 1,000 BNB tokens—worth approximately $611,000—divided equally between Myanmar and Thailand. Zhao posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I will donate 500 BNB each to Myanmar and Thailand.”

His donation has inspired further contributions, including 44 BNB from blockchain thought leader and intergovernmental advisor Anndy Lian, who urged his followers to support relief efforts. 

Binance Thailand, along with local partners, is ensuring that these funds are allocated efficiently to rebuild infrastructure and provide essential services.

Crypto’s Growing Role in Disaster Relief

This isn’t the first time cryptocurrency has played a major role in humanitarian efforts. In previous disasters, such as the Turkey-Syria earthquake and the Maui wildfires, crypto donations have allowed relief organizations to bypass slow banking systems and deliver aid faster. 

Platforms like CryptoRelief and Binance Charity have proven that blockchain-based donations enhance transparency, ensuring that funds reach those in need rather than being lost in administrative overhead.

In Myanmar and Thailand, where financial and governmental challenges can delay traditional relief efforts, crypto offers a lifeline. By leveraging decentralized networks, donations can reach affected communities directly, helping fund medical supplies, food, and emergency housing without bureaucratic slowdowns.

The Road Ahead

As the death toll rises and thousands remain displaced, every contribution counts. The Myanmar-Thailand earthquake is a tragic reminder of the importance of efficient relief mechanisms. 

For those looking to make an impact, donating in crypto is a fast and effective way to support relief efforts. Whether through Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins, every transaction brings much-needed assistance to those struggling to recover from this catastrophe.