During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2025 in Turkey, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain called upon the international community and regional partners to support the safe, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingyas to their places of origin in Myanmar. He stressed that the regularization of legal migration processes would help curb the tendency for irregular border crossings.
Also, Hossain highlighted the importance of peace in Myanmar for unlocking the Bay of Bengal’s potential, stating that sustainable Rohingya repatriation to Rakhine State is essential for regional harmony.
Sweden Increases Humanitarian Aid to Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh
Sweden has provided $12.7 million in humanitarian assistance to more than one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and host communities near refugee camps in the Cox’s Bazar region. The aid aims to improve living conditions, address food insecurity, and support NGOs in emergency responses. This assistance will be channeled through organizations like UNHCR, WFP, Norwegian Refugee Council, Islamic Relief, Save the Children, and the International Rescue Committee (IRC).
Rohingya in Myanmar Face Renewed Persecution
In Rakhine State, Rohingya remaining in Maung Daw and Buthidaung endure severe restrictions, including movement bans and lack of access to healthcare and education. Reports suggest forced conscription by the Arakan Army (AA) and attacks leading to the displacement of thousands. Notably, the burning of Buthidaung in May 2024 displaced up to 200,000 Rohingyas, many without access to food or medicine.
The United Nations has warned that Myanmar’s Rakhine State could face an imminent famine, with over two million people at risk of starvation. Factors such as shortages of seeds and fertilizers, severe weather, and the displacement of farmers have led to a decline in rice production. Restrictions imposed by Myanmar’s military government have hindered humanitarian aid efforts.
Bangladesh Offers Support for Rakhine’s Economic Rebuilding
Additionally, Bangladesh has offered to provide support for rebuilding Rakhine State’s economy, emphasizing the significance of peace, stability, and democracy in Myanmar as a foundation for commencing the repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingyas to their homeland. The Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain made this call during an informal consultation among Myanmar and its five neighboring countries in Bangkok.
Therefore, urgent global action is needed to ensure safe and dignified Rohingya repatriation, as ongoing persecution and humanitarian crises persist in Myanmar.
