Repatriation the only viable solution to Rohingya crisis: CA

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that the repatriation of more than one million Rohingyas to their homeland in Myanmar’s Rakhine State remains the only viable and sustainable solution to the protracted crisis.

He urged the UN refugee agency to maintain its active engagement in facilitating the safe, voluntary and dignified return of the displaced population.

The Chief Adviser made the remarks when newly appointed United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) country representative Ivo Freijsen paid a courtesy call on him at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Wednesday, according to the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.

During the meeting, the UNHCR representative pointed to a “dramatic decline” in aid for Rohingyas living in camps in Cox’s Bazar and underscored the urgent need to promote self-reliance and livelihood opportunities within the settlements.

Professor Yunus said the Rohingya crisis was no longer receiving the international attention it deserved, despite the interim government’s efforts over the past year to keep the issue in global focus. He cited a series of high-profile initiatives, including a visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to the camps during Ramadan, which helped draw renewed attention to the humanitarian situation.

He stressed that a prolonged stay in camps could never be a solution, noting that it had already created tensions with host communities. He called for renewed international efforts to ensure repatriation.

“The problem began in Myanmar, and the solution must also come from there. A frustrated and angry young generation is growing up in the camps, with access to technology. This is not good news for anyone. Our responsibility is to ensure they return to their homeland in peace and dignity,” the Chief Adviser said.

The meeting also discussed the situation of Rohingyas relocated to Bhasan Char, the upcoming general elections and referendum, and Bangladesh’s democratic transition.

Professor Yunus noted that many Rohingyas had left shelters on Bhasan Char and merged into the mainland population, creating new challenges for the country.

Ivo Freijsen said newly appointed UNHCR High Commissioner Barham Salih has expressed strong interest in visiting Bangladesh in the near future and is expected to tour the Rohingya camps. His predecessor, Filippo Grandi, visited the camps several times since 2017.

On the elections, Professor Yunus said Bangladesh was fully prepared to hold a free, fair and festive poll.

“We want to set a new standard in conducting elections. All our efforts are focused on ensuring a credible and well-managed process. For first-time and new voters, we want the experience to be enjoyable and inclusive,” he said.

Lamiya Morshed, SDG coordinator and senior secretary to the government, was also present at the meeting.