The Rohingya Crisis in Myanmar & Bangladesh
The Rohingya crisis began in 2017 and is one of the largest and most prolonged refugee crises in modern history. The Rohingya, a Muslim minority group in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, have faced systematic persecution, including widespread violence, killings, and mass displacement. The Myanmar military's brutal crackdown forced more than 742,000 Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh, where they now reside in densely populated refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar.
Current Situation
By 2024, the number of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh has grown to over 960,000, most of whom are still confined to 33 camps in Cox’s Bazar, making this one of the largest and most densely populated refugee settlements in the world (Rohingya Response) (UN Refugee Agency). Nearly 75% of this population are women and children, with limited access to education, healthcare, or opportunities for livelihood.
The Rohingya have been denied citizenship in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and their attempts at voluntary repatriation have been unsuccessful due to continued violence and instability in Rakhine State. Despite efforts by Bangladesh and international organizations, including plans to relocate refugees to Bhasan Char Island, the humanitarian situation remains critical (UN Refugee Agency).
Camps Challenges
The Rohingya refugee camps are rife with challenges, including:
Food insecurity: 95% of Rohingya households rely entirely on humanitarian assistance for food.
Health risks: The monsoon season exacerbates the risk of diseases like hepatitis, malaria, and dengue. In 2023, Cyclone Mocha severely damaged infrastructure, leaving thousands without adequate shelter (UN Refugee Agency) (UNHCR Data).
Limited mobility: Rohingya refugees are not allowed to leave the camps, and their lack of legal status leaves them vulnerable to exploitation.
How You Can Help
International organizations are working tirelessly to provide life-saving assistance. You can contribute to these efforts through the following organizations:
