Diplomatic missions vow to keep the Rohingya crisis high on the global agenda

Sixteen diplomatic missions in Bangladesh have pledged to keep the Rohingya crisis high on the international agenda as the displacement crisis enters its 10th year, reaffirming their commitment to justice, accountability and continued global support.

The missions, including those of the United Kingdom, European Union, Canada and Japan, made the pledge in a joint statement issued Tuesday to mark nine years since the mass exodus of Rohingyas from Myanmar.

“As this crisis enters its tenth year, we must ensure that the Rohingya people are not forgotten,” they said.

They vowed to amplify Rohingya voices, pursue justice and accountability, and work with Bangladesh and international partners to sustain global attention and support for the refugees.

Nearly 1.2 million Rohingya refugees are still living in Bangladesh, nine years after fleeing widespread violence and persecution in Myanmar. The diplomatic missions praised their resilience, courage and dignity while expressing appreciation to Bangladesh and its people for providing refuge for nearly a decade.

Repatriation remains unfeasible

The missions reaffirmed the Rohingyas’ right to return to their homes in Myanmar but said conditions in Rakhine State remain unsuitable for repatriation.

They noted that the conflict in Rakhine is intensifying, humanitarian needs are growing, and civilian infrastructure is facing airstrikes, while restrictions on humanitarian assistance and trade are further worsening the situation.

The deteriorating security environment is also triggering additional displacement into Bangladesh and other parts of the region, with perilous sea journeys leading to tragic deaths.

Under the current circumstances, the missions said voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation is not yet possible.

They stressed that a lasting return would require a coordinated, strategic and long-term approach focused on addressing the root causes of displacement, rebuilding trust among communities and promoting peace and stability in Myanmar.

They also highlighted the need to equip refugees with education and skills so they can rebuild their homes, livelihoods and communities in Rakhine when conditions allow.

Continued support in Bangladesh

The diplomatic missions pledged to work with Bangladesh to help create conditions that would eventually enable sustainable repatriation.

Until then, they reaffirmed their support for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh, including efforts to strengthen refugees’ self-reliance.

They also stressed that the future of the Rohingya response depends not only on maintaining humanitarian aid but also on improving its delivery. They backed greater local leadership and increased participation by Bangladeshi and refugee-led organisations in planning and delivering assistance.

“Rohingya voices must be at the centre of decisions that affect their lives and futures,” the missions said.

The joint statement comes as Bangladesh continues to host one of the world’s largest refugee populations, with the prolonged crisis placing substantial humanitarian, economic and social pressure on both Rohingya refugees and their host communities.