RHRC – March 18, 2025
Escalating Violence in Arakan State
The Rohingya in northern Rakhine State are facing increasing brutality, with the Arakan Army (AA) now posing a greater threat than the Myanmar Armed Forces (MAF). On March 7, 2025, AA forces opened fire on seven Rohingya fishermen in the Naf River near Nga Sa Kyu and Ludaing villages. One fisherman was killed, while the other six fled and remain missing. Despite paying bribes for fishing permits, the fishermen were targeted, underscoring the racial discrimination against the Rohingya.
The AA has also been raiding and sealing Rohingya homes in Maungdaw, forcing families to leave. Since taking control of Maungdaw on December 8, 2024, the AA has restricted Rohingya movement and extorted food and supplies from villagers. In Nant Chaung village, Rohingya residents are forced to provide five bags of rice daily, along with money and other goods. Failure to comply results in threats of violence, arson, or detention.
In February 2025, Rohingya residents of Gunnah Hamlet were forcibly evicted, and their belongings were looted by AA members and Rakhine locals. These actions have created a severe livelihood crisis for the Rohingya, who lack income sources but are compelled to meet AA demands.
Tragedy and Resilience in Bangladesh’s Camps
On March 14, 2025, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. They shared an iftar meal with around 100,000 Rohingya refugees, offering hope and solidarity. However, a tragic stampede during the event resulted in the death of an elderly Rohingya man and injuries to two others.
Professor Yunus expressed hope that the Rohingya would soon celebrate Eid in their homeland, Arakan State. Secretary-General Guterres assured that the UN would work to prevent cuts in food rations for the refugees. He pledged to seek global support to address the crisis and alleviate the suffering of the Rohingya.
In another incident, a Rohingya man named Hafizur Rahman was brutally beaten to death in Camp-14 on March 16, 2025. The reason for his killing remains unclear, though some sources claim he was associated with the Rohingya Solidarity Organization (RSO). His funeral was held on March 17.
Global Efforts for Justice and Accountability
On March 12, 2025, Gambian Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka. They discussed The Gambia’s genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and ways to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between their countries. Tangara reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to seeking justice for the Rohingya, stating, “We want to put this issue back on the global agenda.”
Professor Yunus thanked The Gambia for its efforts, emphasizing the importance of the ICJ case in holding Myanmar accountable. He expressed hope for a successful outcome, stating, “Your support is invaluable to us.”
The international community continues to play a crucial role in addressing the Rohingya crisis. The visit of UN Secretary-General Guterres and the ongoing ICJ case highlight the global effort to secure justice, dignity, and a sustainable future for the Rohingya people.
