Narinjara News, June 5, 2025 

Gwyn Lewis, the United Nations resident coordinator in Bangladesh, stated that the UN is not participating in talks regarding the creation of a corridor through Bangladesh to enable humanitarian aid in Rakhine. 

As reported by Bangladesh media Prothom Alo, she expressed her views while answering questions during the DCAB Talk at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Wednesday, organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB). 

When inquired if the UN is partaking in the creation of a humanitarian corridor in Rakhine, Lewis responded that they welcome any effort that enhances cross-border relations or assists individuals impacted by conflict. The UN stands prepared to back these initiatives. At present, there is no humanitarian corridor available, and the UN is not involved in any related talks. 

The topic of creating a corridor for humanitarian aid to reach Rakhine via Bangladesh has gained significant attention, prompting a statement from the UN. 

The UN coordinator additionally explained that a humanitarian corridor is a legitimate and official arrangement. Such a corridor requires formal approval from both sovereign nations—Bangladesh and Myanmar – and, if needed, participation from other pertinent parties. 

She stated that support from the UN can be offered if an agreement exists, noting that, to her knowledge, no agreement has been achieved so far. 

She also mentioned that accessing Rakhine is very challenging because of the ongoing conflict and the unstable situation. 

The Arakan Army (AA) presently governs 271 kilometers (168 miles) of the Myanmar-Bangladesh border and holds authority over 80 percent of Rakhine State.

Political analysts informed Narinjara that addressing the Rakhine issue without the AA will be challenging. 

Although the UNDP and UNHCR have an agreement with the Myanmar government for assistance, the UN's presence in the area has considerably decreased. Certain UN personnel and collaborators remain active in that location. 

She observed that raising money for the Rohingyas has grown more difficult. The Rohingyas wish to go back to their homeland with honor, yet the existing conditions there are difficult and unsupportive.