Bangladesh Plan to Resettle Rohingya in the US

For over a seven year, Bangladesh has been a refuge for more than a million Rohingya who fled the violence and persecution in Myanmar, seeking safety and survival. Now, a new chapter may begin for some of these refugees, as Bangladesh prepares to resettle 20,000 Rohingya in the United States each year over the next decade. This effort, though modest in numbers, represents a significant step toward a more hopeful future for those who have endured years of hardship.

Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hussain, speaking on Monday, acknowledged the challenges but highlighted the potential impact of the initiative. “The numbers may seem small, but for these individuals and their families, this could mean the start of a new life. It’s a chance for a future beyond the camps,” he said.

The U.S. resettlement program, currently in its pilot phase, has already seen about 2,500 Rohingya refugees selected for relocation, with the process being fast-tracked. These families, who have lived in limbo for years, may soon find new homes, schools for their children, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.

In 2017, under international pressure, Myanmar’s government agreed to take back the Rohingya. However, trust in Myanmar’s promises quickly faded, and repatriation efforts stalled by 2019. The global pandemic that followed only deepened the uncertainty for those waiting for a safe return.

Today, the possibility of returning to Myanmar seems farther away than ever. Conflict still rages, and new waves of Rohingya continue to arrive in Bangladesh. While the dream of going back home is out of reach for now, the chance to start over in a safe and welcoming country offers a glimmer of hope.

Hussain stressed the importance of international cooperation in ensuring that the Rohingya are not forgotten. “Repatriation may not be possible in the current climate, but through global partnerships, we can still help these people build new lives and move forward.”

For the Rohingya, many of whom have spent years waiting for a solution, this initiative could be the first step toward healing and stability.

Rohingya Vision News