UN asked to create environment for Rohingya repatriation

The National Task Force on Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Citizens has urged the United Nations to take coordinated and effective measures to create conditions in Myanmar’s Rakhine State that would enable the safe and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas.

The task force also called on the UN and the international community to ensure adequate funding for humanitarian activities supporting the displaced Rohingyas.

In its 46th meeting, chaired by Foreign Secretary Md Jasim Uddin, the committee underscored that sustainable repatriation is the only viable solution to the Rohingya crisis, according to a release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting was attended by representatives of UN agencies operating in Bangladesh, the World Bank, the Commissioner for Refugee Relief and Repatriation, and officials from various government ministries, departments, and agencies.

The task force deliberated on a range of issues concerning the Rohingya population residing in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char, including:

Camp Management Challenges: Addressing issues related to infrastructure, electricity, healthcare, and family planning in the camps.

Funding Needs: Ensuring continued financial support from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank for both the Rohingya and local communities.

Long-Term Impact on Bangladesh: Highlighting the strain caused by the prolonged presence of Rohingyas in the country, including new security and socio-economic challenges.

Camp Security: Emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures within the camps and surrounding areas.

New Arrivals: Discussing the management of recently arrived Myanmar citizens.

UN representatives briefed the task force on initiatives being undertaken in Rakhine for the Rohingyas.

The committee reiterated its position that the resolution of the Rohingya crisis hinges on creating an environment in Myanmar conducive to their voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation, while also addressing the pressing challenges in the camps in Bangladesh.