The Ethnic Health Research and Development Seminar 2025, held on May 19–20 at the Thai-Burma border, brought together 174 participants from diverse health organizations to address challenges in disrupted health systems due to COVID-19 and the 2021 military coup in Burma. Twenty-three research studies were presented, focusing on critical issues like limited healthcare access, weak referral systems, and unmet needs of displaced populations in conflict-affected areas. The seminar emphasized strengthening local research capacity, improving data and training, and fostering cross-border collaboration to build a resilient and inclusive health system. It served as a key platform for knowledge exchange, strategic planning, and advocating for sustainable, equity-focused health interventions in ethnic and border communities.