Chief Adviser: Protracted crisis in Myanmar poses growing risks for Bangladesh

Dhaka Tribune, September 27, 2024

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Friday said the protracted crisis in Myanmar poses growing risks with national and regional security implications for Bangladesh, both traditional and non-traditional security challenges.

He called for creating pathways for the Rohingyas to return to their ancestral home in Rakhine State, with safety and rights.

"Looking at the evolving ground situation in Myanmar, Bangladesh is ready to work with the international community to create an environment for dignified and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homeland," he said drawing global attention to the Rohingya crisis while delivering his speech at the UNGA in Bangla.

Seven years on, he said, Bangladesh has been hosting over 1.2 million Rohingyas on humanitarian ground, incurring significant social-economic-environmental costs.

"We remain committed to supporting the forcibly displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar in Bangladesh," Prof Yunus said.

He said they need continued support of the international community towards the Rohingyas in carrying out the humanitarian operations and their sustainable repatriation.

Equally important is to ensure justice for the grave human rights violations committed against the Rohingyas, through the ongoing accountability processes in the ICJ and the ICC, he said.

Bangladesh recognizes and appreciates the efforts of the Secretary General and the United Nations system in creating a conducive environment for Rohingyas so that they can lead a free and dignified life.