When disaster strikes, the world often watches in helpless horror. But sometimes, companies step forward—not for profit, but to uplift. This week, we shine a spotlight on Western Union, a global leader in cross-border money movement, for making an extraordinary gesture in the wake of Myanmar's devastating earthquake: zero-fee international money transfers to Myanmar.
At a time when families are desperate to connect and communities are grasping for lifelines, Western Union has launched a powerful initiative that speaks volumes about corporate responsibility and humanity.
A Timely Lifeline: Zero-Fee Transfers
Effective immediately through April 10, 2025 (Myanmar Standard Time), individuals around the world can send money to Myanmar through WesternUnion.com or the Western Union mobile app without incurring transfer fees. The money can be received in several convenient formats:
- Bank account deposits
- Select mobile wallet credits
- Cash pickups at agent locations across Myanmar
This move eliminates a significant barrier for the global Myanmar diaspora seeking to support their loved ones through a time of unimaginable loss and instability.
Why This Matters: More Than Money, It's a Message
This isn’t the first time Western Union has responded swiftly during crisis situations. From COVID-19 to natural disasters, the company has made a habit of waiving fees and simplifying access during the darkest hours.
But this decision is particularly impactful given Myanmar's current challenges:
- Fragile infrastructure, worsened by the quake
- Limited financial access for rural and displaced populations
- A need for speed—when lives and livelihoods depend on quick support
“In moments of crisis, staying connected with loved ones matters more than ever,” said Atish Shrestha, Regional Director for Indochina, South Korea, and Taiwan at Western Union. “By waiving transfer fees, we hope to make it easier for customers to provide meaningful support reliably.”
Corporate Social Responsibility in Action
This is not just a philanthropic footnote—it’s a masterclass in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Western Union is demonstrating what it means to wield global infrastructure for good. Here’s why this initiative sets an example:
- Empathy at Scale: Western Union’s massive international reach enables millions to help, even across borders and time zones.
- Purpose-Driven Profits: In a world often dominated by shareholder interest, this gesture shows stakeholder care—especially for vulnerable communities.
- Trust Amplification: In difficult times, people remember who showed up. Western Union is reinforcing long-term brand loyalty and global goodwill.
How This Reflects the Best of Corporate Leadership
This move isn't just a logistical response—it’s a moral one. It tells the world that corporations can be first responders too, not just governments or NGOs. With its technological backbone and global presence, Western Union is uniquely positioned to act quickly—and they did.
And in doing so, they’ve proven yet again that ethical leadership and practical service can—and must—coexist.
What You Can Do
Even if you’re not sending money, you can be part of this moment. Here's how:
- Spread the word: Share this zero-fee initiative with anyone connected to Myanmar communities.
- Support aid organizations: Amplify or donate to NGOs working on the ground in Myanmar.
- Champion CSR: Share examples like this to push other companies to act with similar urgency and compassion.
Final Thoughts
As Myanmar rebuilds, gestures like these remind us that business can be a force for healing. In highlighting Western Union today, we honor more than a company—we honor the values that must drive every global enterprise in the 21st century: compassion, connection, and commitment.
In a fractured world, acts of corporate courage like this stitch us back together.
Thank you for reading!
