Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus emphasized that the only sustainable resolution to the Rohingya refugee crisis is the safe repatriation of over one million refugees to Myanmar’s Rakhine State. He urged the UN refugee agency to maintain active involvement in facilitating their return. Yunus expressed these views during a meeting with the newly appointed country representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Ivo Freijsen, at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka.
Freijsen highlighted a significant decrease in aid for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar camps and underscored the importance of enhancing self-reliance and livelihood opportunities within the settlements. Yunus pointed out that despite various high-profile events organized by the interim government, including a visit by the UN secretary-general to the camps, the Rohingya crisis was not receiving adequate attention globally. He stressed the urgency of addressing the issue and reiterated the need for repatriation efforts.
Emphasizing that the root of the problem lies in Myanmar, Yunus stated that the return of the Rohingyas to their homeland is crucial to prevent further tensions and challenges. He expressed concerns about the growing frustration among the younger generation in the camps and the potential risks associated with their prolonged stay. The chief adviser emphasized the importance of ensuring a peaceful and dignified return for the refugees.
The meeting also touched upon the Rohingya situation on Bhasan Char, upcoming general elections and referendum, and the country’s democratic progress. Yunus highlighted the challenges posed by refugees leaving Bhasan Char island and integrating into the local population. Freijsen mentioned that the newly appointed UNHCR chief, Barham Salih, is eager to visit Bangladesh soon and plans to visit the Rohingya camps, following the footsteps of his predecessor, Filippo Grandi.
Yunus assured that Bangladesh is fully prepared to conduct free, fair, and celebratory elections, aiming to set new standards in the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of creating an enjoyable and inclusive atmosphere for first-time and new voters. The meeting was also attended by SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed.