United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the Rohingya crisis is still not receiving the global attention it deserves, despite the interim government’s efforts over the past year to spotlight the issue through a series of high-profile initiatives, including a visit by the UN Secretary-General to the camps during Ramadan. He said the prolonged stay of the Rohingyas in the camps could never be a solution, as it had already created tensions with host communities, and called for renewed international efforts to ensure repatriation. “The problem began in Myanmar, and the solution must also come from there. A frustrated and angry young generation is growing up in the camps, with access to technology. This is not good news for anyone. Our job is to make sure they return to their homeland in peace and dignity,” the Chief Adviser said.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has said it continues to work closely with sector partners to scale up assistance and address urgent and evolving needs, stressing that fire risks remain high in the Rohingya camps. While immediate assistance continues, the latest incident underscores the persistent fire risks facing refugee communities in Cox’s Bazar, which hosts more than one million Rohingya refugees, it said. The fire risks remain high, particularly during the dry season, due to the dense layout of the camps and the use of highly flammable materials in temporary shelters, IOM said. It launched an emergency response following a large fire in a Rohingya refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar early Tuesday morning. Read more: Canada reaffirms commitment to dignity and justice for Rohingya Relief efforts are being carried out in close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh and humanitarian partners to ensure timely and appropriate assistance to affected families. “When fires strike in overcrowded camp settings, the impact extends far beyond damaged infrastructure,” said Lance Bonneau, IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh. “Families lose shelter, essential belongings, and access to basic services, increasing immediate protection risks. Our response is guided by a clear responsibility to protect lives, uphold dignity and ensure that those affected receive assistance quickly and safely, so families can begin to regain a sense of normalcy.” The fire affected more than 2,000 refugees, causing extensive damage to shelters and camp-based facilities. No fatalities or major injuries have been reported.  More than 400 shelters were damaged and camp infrastructure was severely impacted, including over 160 water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities such as water points and latrines, as well as 11 learning centres and two mosques. Beyond the destruction of shelters, the fire also destabilized the hillside terrain on which much of the camp is constructed, damaging drainage networks and public infrastructure, and increasing risks related to access and erosion. After the fire was contained, IOM deployed health teams and ambulances to support those with minor injuries and worked with partners to rapidly assess damage and immediate needs. Building on these assessments, IOM and its partners rapidly deployed specialized teams in shelter, WASH, and protection to support affected families. Within 24 hours of the incident, IOM’s camp management team, together with refugee volunteers, cleared debris from the fire-affected areas to restore safe access for emergency assistance and essential services. Over 49.5 lakh Bangladeshis internally displaced by natural disasters: IOM In coordination with the World Food Programme (WFP), emergency food assistance was provided, while affected households received emergency shelter assistance, blankets, floor mats, mosquito nets, and portable solar lights. Following previous devastating fires, including the March 2021 incident that displaced 45,000 people, IOM and humanitarian partners have continued to strengthen refugee-led emergency preparedness and response mechanisms to enable faster, safer, and more effective action when hazards occur.

Parliamentary State Secretary to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Member of German Bundestag, Johann Saathoff has said Germany remains firmly committed to supporting Bangladesh and the international community in seeking durable solutions for the Rohingya. "The Rohingya people deserve the opportunity to return home voluntarily, safely, and with dignity — but lasting peace and stability in Myanmar are essential for that to happen. Until then, we will continue to stand by Bangladesh and all those working to support both refugees and host communities," he said. Saathoff visited Bangladesh from October 27–28 to deepen bilateral relations and uphold and demonstrate Germany’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its development and humanitarian priorities. Bangladesh, Pakistan pledge stronger ties to boost mutual progress During his visit, Saathoff met senior government representatives, including Secretary of the Economic Relations Division under Ministry of Finance, Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, as well as representatives from the United Nations, international partners, and civil society. Discussions focused on shared priorities in sustainable development, economic growth, and the humanitarian situation in Cox’s Bazar. Together with German Ambassador Dr. Rüdiger Lotz and a delegation from BMZ, Saathoff travelled to Cox’s Bazar to meet with representatives of Unicef and local partners, and to observe ongoing efforts supporting the Rohingyas and host communities. The visit highlighted Germany’s continued solidarity with Bangladesh in addressing development and humanitarian challenges. Germany continues to be one of Bangladesh’s key partners in development cooperation, focusing on climate and energy, good governance and sustainable economic growth, said the German Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday.    

US Special Envoy for Best Future Generations Charles Harder has said the United States will continue to support the people of Myanmar, including Rohingya and other minorities, and urged other donors to join them in this effort. "Increased contributions are vital to ensure dignity, safety, and hope for vulnerable populations. This is fundamentally not a responsibility of the U.S., and we will not be the primary provider of assistance while others sit by," said the Special Envoy. Harder, while speaking at high-level conference on the 'Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar' held at the UN General Assembly on September 30, said this is not a burden the United States will bear indefinitely; it is long past time for other governments and actors in the region to develop sustainable solutions for Rohingya. All nations, organisations, and private donors must step forward and share the burden by increasing their contributions, said the Special Envoy. The scale and complexity of this crisis make it clear that no single country or entity can do it alone. To underscore the US commitment in saving lives and providing critical assistance where needed, Harder announced the intent to provide more than $60 million in assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. "With this, we expect meaningful policy changes by Bangladesh to allow livelihood opportunities and by aid organisations to increase cost efficiency," Harder said. The United States expressed its support for Rohingya and other Myanmar minorities who have been victims of repression and violence. "Survivors of that persecution are here with us today. I commend their bravery in speaking out," Harder said. The US thanked the government of Bangladesh, as they have shown generosity and compassion in hosting Rohingya refugees, many of whom fled a campaign of genocide and crimes against humanity perpetrated by Myanmar’s military. Rohingya Conf: US, UK announce fresh aid commitment of $96mn "We also thank Thailand for its steadfast partnership, including its recent decision to grant Myanmar refugees permission to work," Harder said. Unfortunately, the Special Envoy said, Myanmar’s military regime continues to escape accountability for their atrocities. "They continue to oppress minorities, bomb civilians, and use child soldiers." Harder said they are deeply concerned about reports of ongoing atrocities and forced displacement, particularly in Rakhine State. The US called on all armed actors, including the military regime and the Arakha Army, to protect civilians, allow humanitarian access, and adhere to international humanitarian law. Despite ASEAN and UN efforts to create conditions for dialogue, violence and instability have only worsened, Harder said. The regime is moving ahead with an election plan that excludes the most popular and representative political parties. "This plan will not address the legitimate aspirations of Myanmar’s ethnic groups. We reject these elections under current conditions," Harder said. "Our goal is a future in which all people of Myanmar can live in safety, dignity, and peace. Our focus now should be on a ceasefire, a genuine dialogue, which is critical to shape the country’s future," said the US Special Envoy. Meanwhile, the United States has committed to taking international efforts to provide humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees. "We must review assistance to eliminate overlap, inefficiencies, and redundancies. We must maximise local solutions and minimise expensive overhead costs," Harder said. Rohingya Conference: Prospects for funding JRP next year grim, says Filippo Grandi Burden-sharing and increasing efficiency are strategic necessities, said the US Special Envoy. "By working together, the international community can strengthen collective efforts to address the root causes of displacement, support durable solutions, and prevent further instability in the region," Harder said.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Tuesday called upon the international community to sustain its support for vital humanitarian assistance for the Rohingyas. It also urged Myanmar to take concrete steps towards ensuring the safe, dignified, voluntary and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homeland. The OIC reiterated its call for reinforced international solidarity and coordinated action to address the root causes of this issue and to work toward a comprehensive, just and durable solution. On the eighth anniversary of the mass atrocities committed against the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, the OIC reiterated its unwavering support for the Rohingya people and reaffirms its steadfast commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights. Rohingya Camps: IOM brings first-ever comprehensive emergency obstetric, newborn care services The OIC stands in solidarity with the Rohingya Muslims, who continue to face persecution, statelessness and forced displacement, according to a statement issued by the OIC headquarters. Over 1.3 million Rohingya remain in refugee camps in Bangladesh and other host countries, enduring difficult conditions and facing uncertain futures, while many thousands remain internally displaced within Myanmar, subject to mass killings, systemic discrimination and ongoing gross violations of their rights. The OIC fully supports international efforts, including proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), to hold perpetrators of heinous crimes against the Rohingya Muslims accountable. It underscored the responsibility of all parties involved in the conflict, especially the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army, to ensure the protection of the Rohingya people inside Myanmar in full compliance with the provisional measures ordered by the ICJ. Switzerland reaffirms support for Bangladesh in resolving Rohingya crisis The OIC also commended Bangladesh and other OIC Member States for their continued generosity in hosting Rohingya refugees and appreciates the support extended by many OIC Member States to this community. It paid tribute to the courage and resilience of the Rohingya Muslims, and reaffirmed its pledge to continue advocating for their rights on the international stage.

United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations Raouf Mazou on Monday said a political solution to the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar must be found and the United Nations (UN), led by the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy, continues to work in support of these efforts. "In order to start recreating conditions for the return of refugees, dialogue with all parties is a critical first step. Rights must be respected and, as the Secretary-General said, civilians must be protected," he said, while speaking at the ‘Stakeholders’ Dialogue’ on the Rohingya situation. Mazou, however, said much more needs to be done by a multiplicity of actors, including regional bodies and neighboring states, for peace to return to Myanmar and more specifically the Rakhine State. "The consultations we are having today, facilitated by the High Representative, are therefore essential to chart a way forward - in which the wellbeing of Rohingya refugees, particularly women, children and youths, should remain central," he said.  Country stable enough; ready for elections: Prof Yunus It prepares for the high-level conference on the situation of Rohingya and other Muslim minorities planned for September 30, 2025 during the United Nations General Assembly high-level segment. "The voluntary return in conditions of safety and dignity remains the most desirable solution and the responsibility to create the conditions for it to happen lies squarely on Myanmar," Mazou said. Eight long years have passed since 700,000 Rohingya were compelled to flee Myanmar to Bangladesh, pushed by unspeakable violence and human rights violations in Myanmar's Rakhine state. They are presently over 1.3 million in Bangladesh. In a world where the right of asylum is sometimes questioned, Mazou said Bangladesh's response has been remarkable, with local populations welcoming those in desperate need despite the difficult circumstances in which they sometimes find themselves. The international community has played its role, providing hundreds of millions of dollars to respond to the humanitarian needs of refugees in Cox's Bazar and in Bhasan Char. Prof Yunus places 7-point roadmap for Rohingya repatriation "However, as the situation has prolonged, and the number of forcibly displaced has continued to increase around the world, reaching 120 million by the end of 2024, it has become increasingly difficult to mobilise the resources required," said Mazou. As of today, the funding of the Joint Response Plan stands at approximately 60%. "While the continued provision of food assistance could be secured until December the availability of LPG beyond September is uncertain. Services such as education and health have already been reduced," Mazou said. He said it is essential that, as Bangladesh continues to provide a global public good, the required funding is made available in the spirit of burden-sharing, reaffirmed by the Global Compact on Refugees. “Merely providing humanitarian assistance neither constitutes a solution nor ensures protection," Mazou said. There are an estimated 3.5 million internally displaced persons in Myanmar, and in the past 18 months alone, 150,000 more Rohingya have fled targeted violence to Bangladesh. "A comprehensive response continues to be required to meet individual needs in a manner that helps prepare for the eventual return because long-term dependency on humanitarian assistance does not prepare Rohingya refugees for the part they ought to play in the reconstruction of their country once they return," Mazou said. "We need more innovative approaches that accommodate the need for refugees to retain their ability to play an active role in the reconstruction of their country while not creating conditions that would make the eventual return elusive," he said. Eight years on, Rohingyas’ presence leaves locals feeling exiled at home Mazou said their presence in Cox's Bazar today is a clear indication of our determination to be by the side of the refugees, represented in this meeting - as well as the government and people of Bangladesh and be part of the solution. A situation involving over one million displaced persons cannot be left to morph into a regional crisis affecting all countries in the region, he said. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus spoke at the event as the chief guest. High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Faruk E Azam, Bir Protik, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, among others, also spoke.  

Diplomatic Missions in Dhaka on Monday stressed the importance of ensuring meaningful engagement and inclusive representation of Rohingyas to make empowered decisions and enable them to live safe, purposeful and dignified lives when they are in Bangladesh. "After eight years, the international community stands steadfast with the Rohingya and Bangladesh, committed to seeking long-term durable solutions to the crisis and addressing its root causes," the Missions said in a joint statement. High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh, Australian High Commission, British High Commission, Embassy of Denmark in Bangladesh, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka, Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, Ambasciata d'Italia a Dhaka, Embassy of France in Bangladesh, Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, Embassy of Finland in New Delhi and Suomen suurlähetystö New Delhi issued the statement titled ‘Rohingya crisis - eight years on’. They reflect on the Myanmar military’s actions causing the mass displacement of Rohingya. Today, over 1.3 million Rohingya remain displaced in Bangladesh and new arrivals continue to seek refuge in the camps. Read: Prof Yunus places 7-point roadmap for Rohingya repatriation "We acknowledge the resilience of Rohingya in the face of their ongoing hardship and displacement, amid the current deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Rakhine State," the joint statement said. The Missions expressed their deep appreciation for the ongoing generosity of the interim government and the people of Bangladesh, who are providing shelter and safety to the Rohingya, including new arrivals, hosting them and supporting the provision of life-saving humanitarian assistance. Rohingyas Want to Return The international community remains committed to finding pathways towards repatriation, the statement said, adding, "However, cross-border displacement continues, many Rohingya in Rakhine remain internally displaced, and conditions in Myanmar do not currently allow for their voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return." These conditions can only be met by addressing the root causes of their displacement, which requires a peaceful and stable Myanmar. "We therefore recognise that a timeline for the return of the Rohingya cannot yet be established and stress to all actors the urgent need to support efforts to create a conducive environment," the statement added. They condemned the escalating violence and human rights abuses committed by the military regime and other armed actors and reiterate our call for an immediate end to all acts of violence and for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access. Read more: Prof Yunus joins 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue' on Rohingya crisis in Cox’s Bazar They also reiterated their call for the military regime to release those unjustly detained. "We remain firmly committed to supporting international efforts for accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and other grave human rights abuses." The Missions said they will continue to work with the government of Bangladesh and the international community to focus attention on the situation in Myanmar and the related humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, including at the upcoming High-Level Conference in September 2025. They advocated for more durable solutions for Rohingya refugees, such as enhancing self-reliance for Rohingya, especially in light of reduced humanitarian funding to the Rohingya response, while also preparing and equipping refugees for their eventual return to Myanmar. "We will also continue to support Bangladeshi communities in Cox’s Bazar who are generously hosting the refugee population," the statement said.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has expressed the hope that the UN Conference in New York in September last week will provide concrete pathways to the resolution of the prolonged Rohingya crisis. He said that the recent cut in financial support to the Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh is taking its toll on the provision of essential services, including health and education. Prof Yunus requested Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Tom Andrews to continue his efforts in ensuring the availability of adequate funding. The issues were discussed when Andrews called on Chief Advisor Prof Yunus on Thursday, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder on Friday. Govt intensifies efforts to bring back Rohingya issue to global forums Andrew lauded the leadership of the Chief Adviser for keeping the Rohingya issue at the forefront of the international agenda. He recalled the successful initiative of the Chief Adviser to convene a UN International Conference on the Rohingyas, which will be held on September 30 at the UN headquarters in New York. "The world is grateful to Bangladesh for its generosity to host and support the Rohingyas and to you for keeping the hope of a lasting solution alive," said Andrews. Prof Yunus seeks Malaysia’s support in resolving Rohingya crisis

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday hosted an official luncheon at the Seri Perdana Complex, Putrajaya in honour of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and his visiting delegation. A brief cultural programme was held on the occasion, featuring performances by international artistes, including Bangla songs and traditional dances. Earlier, two leaders had a "substantive and productive" meeting and discussed issues like labour, investment, trade cooperation, ASEAN, Rohingya crisis, and a host of other issues of bilateral interest. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, a long-time friend of the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has been a steadfast supporter of Bangladesh and its development initiatives. Prof Yunus is paying a three-day official visit at the invitation of the Malaysian Prime Minister. Bangladesh, Malaysia sign 5 MoUs, exchange 3 notes on energy, defence and more

Bangladesh has underscored the importance of 'practical and time-bound outcomes' from the high-level conference on Rohingya to be held in September this year in New York. "It is the collective duty of the international community to ensure that the rights and dignity of the Rohingya are upheld and the conditions conducive for their return are expeditiously created in Rakhine," said Ambassador Tareq Md Ariful Islam, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative in Geneva. He made the comment at the time of adoption of the OIC-led Resolution titled ‘The Situation of Human Rights of the Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar’, during the ongoing 59th Session of the Human Rights Council. The Council adopted the resolution on Friday by consensus. The 59th Session of the UN Human Rights Council started in Geneva on June 16 and will continue till July 9. “Bangladesh remains committed to working constructively with all partners to find a comprehensive and durable solution to the protracted Rohingya crisis through voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingya to the Rakhine," the Ambassador added. Working on three fronts, says Foreign Adviser on Rohingya crisis Ambassador Islam expressed grave concerns that Myanmar Military and armed groups like the Arakan Army are perpetuating cycles of violence, obstructing humanitarian access and further aggravating the plight of the Rohingya. He informed the Council that since November 2023 alone, approximately one hundred and eighteen thousand Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh to evade killings, persecution and violence in Rakhine. The consensus resolution, expressing grave concern over the diminishing humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya, emphasised equitable burden and responsibility-sharing by the international community for providing assistance for the Rohingya sheltered in Bangladesh. It also called for providing unhindered and adequate humanitarian assistance within Rakhine by the UN and all relevant humanitarian actors, according to the Bangladesh Mission in Geneva. The resolution reiterates ensuring accountability for ending the culture of impunity in Rakhine and underscores the importance of inclusive and participatory governance structures in Rakhine State with full and meaningful representation of Rohingya Muslims in decision-making processes at all levels.