The interim government of Bangladesh has emphasized the necessity of creating a conducive environment in Myanmar’s Rakhine State to facilitate the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain stated on Tuesday that current conditions in Rakhine are not suitable for the return of the Rohingyas, underscoring the importance of ensuring their rights and security upon repatriation.
Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hossain remarked, “We all know the ground realities in Rakhine state. In the current situation, repatriation of the Rohingyas is not possible. We are now urging all parties to focus on creating a supportive environment across the border, so that these people can return with rights and security.”
This statement follows Myanmar’s recent confirmation that 180,000 Rohingya refugees from a list submitted by Bangladesh are eligible for return. This development came after a meeting in Bangkok between officials from both countries during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit.
Bangladesh had previously submitted a list of 800,000 refugees in six batches between 2018 and 2020. Myanmar has also indicated that final verification is pending for an additional 70,000 individuals and pledged to expedite the review of the remaining 550,000.
Despite these confirmations, Hossain clarified that this does not mean immediate repatriation is feasible. He highlighted the need for Myanmar to expedite the verification process for the remaining Rohingyas and to establish conditions that would allow for their safe and dignified return.
The Rohingya crisis has been a protracted issue, with over a million Rohingyas residing in refugee camps in southeastern Bangladesh since fleeing a brutal military crackdown in Myanmar’s Rakhine State in 2017.
Efforts to repatriate them have faced numerous challenges, including concerns over their safety and rights upon return. The international community continues to call for a comprehensive solution that addresses the root causes of the crisis and ensures the Rohingyas’ rights and security.
