Dr Younus and UN Chief Push for Rohingya Repatriation

During a joint visit to the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh’s interim government leader, Dr. Yunus, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres reinforced their commitment to the repatriation of Rohingya refugees. Dr. Yunus assured refugees that efforts are underway for their dignified return to northern Rakhine State, with hopes that many will celebrate next year’s Ramadan in their homeland. The visit, which included cultural exhibitions and an Iftar meal, signaled the Bangladeshi government’s prioritization of the Rohingya crisis amid global funding shortages.

Bangladesh’s Renewed Push for Repatriation

Since assuming leadership, Bangladesh’s interim government has placed the Rohingya crisis at the forefront of its policies. Dr. Yunus, in his address to Rohingya refugees, emphasized that the repatriation process is a top priority. His statement comes amid increasing concerns over dwindling international aid, which threatens the already fragile humanitarian conditions in the refugee camps.

Bangladesh’s government has been engaging with Myanmar and international stakeholders to facilitate a structured and voluntary return of Rohingya refugees. However, past repatriation efforts have failed due to security concerns in Myanmar, particularly the lack of citizenship guarantees, fundamental rights, and protection from persecution.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Yunus reaffirmed that Bangladesh remains committed to ensuring that repatriation is carried out in a dignified and sustainable manner. He also stressed that international cooperation is crucial for a long-term resolution to the crisis.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who accompanied Dr. Yunus, reiterated his commitment to standing with the Rohingya. His visit comes at a critical time when international funding for Rohingya humanitarian assistance is under threat. Guterres warned that without renewed support, food rations and essential services could face severe cuts, leading to a deeper crisis in the refugee camps.

During his visit, Guterres met with Rohingya students who are pursuing education within the refugee camps, emphasizing the importance of providing long-term opportunities, including skills training and access to education. The Secretary-General also visited exhibitions showcasing the Rohingya people’s heritage, traditions, and professional skills, highlighting their resilience despite their statelessness.

The visit concluded with an Iftar meal shared with hundreds of Rohingya refugees, symbolizing unity and solidarity during Ramadan. Guterres stated that reducing international aid at this time would be unacceptable and vowed to advocate for continued global support.

While Bangladesh’s push for repatriation aligns with its broader diplomatic strategy, the feasibility of immediate returns remains uncertain. The ongoing political and security instability in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine State, raises concerns about whether conditions will be safe enough for Rohingya refugees to return.

Many Rohingya continue to demand full citizenship, protection from persecution, and assurances that they will not face further violence upon their return. Without these guarantees, previous repatriation attempts have failed, as refugees fear a repeat of the violence and systemic discrimination they endured before fleeing Myanmar.

Bangladesh’s renewed focus on repatriation, backed by the UN Secretary-General’s advocacy, highlights the urgency of resolving the Rohingya crisis. However, for repatriation to succeed, international pressure on Myanmar, humanitarian support, and security assurances must align. As the global community debates its role in supporting the Rohingya, the immediate challenge remains ensuring that their basic rights, dignity, and safety are upheld.

Stay connected with Rohingya Vision News for further updates on the Rohingya repatriation process.