Time to Turn Rohingya Empathy into Action

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York has brought renewed focus to the long-running Rohingya crisis. Speaking at a high-level side event, the Prime Minister outlined five urgent proposals and called on the international community to tackle the root causes of the crisis instead of merely managing its consequences. After nearly a decade of displacement, we believe it is time for the world to respond to this call with concrete action. Bangladesh has carried an enormous humanitarian burden by hosting more than 1.2 million Rohingya refugees since 2017. However, the country cannot be expected to shoulder this responsibility indefinitely.

The proposals cover several areas that require sustained international attention. They include a credible roadmap for repatriation, an end to violence in Rakhine State, predictable humanitarian funding, justice through international courts and stronger regional cooperation against cross-border crime. More importantly, the crisis originated in Myanmar, and any lasting solution must address the conditions there that forced the Rohingya people to flee. Thus, creating an environment for their safe, voluntary and dignified return should remain the central objective. Humanitarian assistance, though essential, must not become a substitute for a political solution.

Meanwhile, we can no longer ignore the consequences of prolonged displacement. Thousands of children are born in the Cox’s Bazar camps every year and grow up without knowing when they can return home. Many have spent their entire lives in the camps. Concurrently, Bangladesh faces growing social, economic, environmental and security pressures. The overcrowded camps have also created opportunities for human trafficking, drug smuggling and armed criminal networks. Moreover, declining international aid is increasing the financial burden on Dhaka, even as the country pursues its own development priorities.

Against this backdrop, global powers and regional stakeholders must coordinate their efforts more effectively. Myanmar must create the conditions necessary for repatriation, while neighbouring countries should strengthen cooperation against trafficking, drug networks and other cross-border crimes. International judicial bodies, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, also need sustained support to pursue accountability for atrocities against civilians. We also expect donor countries and international agencies to ensure predictable funding for healthcare, education, food and nutrition in the camps.

Bangladesh opened its doors to people fleeing persecution nine years ago and has continued to provide shelter despite the mounting costs. Even so, this humanitarian commitment cannot continue without stronger international support. The Rohingya deserve more than temporary refuge and repeated expressions of concern; they deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. Therefore, we urge global leaders to maintain diplomatic pressure on Myanmar, support accountability and guarantee essential aid until the conditions for a lasting resolution are in place.