UNHCR warns dwindling aid is eroding hope among Rohingya in Bangladesh

Nearly a decade after the mass exodus from Myanmar, more than one million Rohingya still reside in cramped camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. UNHCR’s representative Ivo Freisen warns that decreasing humanitarian contributions are undermining the already fragile situation, as the majority of refugees rely heavily on aid. He notes that roughly 95 % of the mainly Muslim population depends fully or largely on assistance, while scarce education and livelihood options are prompting some young people to attempt dangerous sea crossings.

Freisen argues that any lasting resolution must create conditions for a safe, voluntary and sustainable return to Myanmar, addressing issues such as discrimination, citizenship status and freedom of movement. The ongoing funding shortfall threatens to worsen living standards and further erode hope among the displaced community.