CA seeks urgent global action to end multi-pronged crisis

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus Wednesday made a passionate call from a Doha meet for urgent action from international communities for an immediate sustainable solution to the multidimensional Rohingya crisis.

At the high-level roundtable discussion held in the capital of Qatar, Bangladesh also proposed hosting 'High-Level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar' in New York this September under UN auspices and sought Qatar's active participation.

The event, organised by the Qatar Foundation, brought together government officials, international organisations, NGOs, and private- sector representatives to address the deepening humanitarian, social, and environmental challenges facing the refugees flushed out of Myanmar.

Stating the impact of the Rohingya crisis on Bangladesh, the head of interim government said prolonged stay of the Rohingyas poses enormous challenges to Bangladesh and is making these umpteen camp-dwellers frustrated. Rise in criminal activities in the camps and attempts of illegal migration are clear signs of desperation among them.

"If the problem persists further, it may affect the security and stability of the entire region and jeopardize development initiatives," the Nobel-laureate for peace told the meet on a note of alarm.

He also laments that international attention is gradually shifting from the Rohingya crisis due to various conflicts arising at different corners of the globe.

Urging Qatar to put pressure on Myanmar for starting repatriation of the down-and-out Rohingya people without further delay, he said, "Given the renewed international geopolitical and geostrategic scenario, Qatar can strongly express their solidarity to resolve the issue and be proactive to engage the OIC countries to raise more funds and impose pressure on the international community to advocate for repatriation of the Rohingya."

Professor Yunus opened his speech with a direct appeal: "Today's meeting is not a ceremonial event, it is a working group. The Rohingya crisis is not simply a humanitarian concern -- it is a multidimensional challenge with social, economic, political, and environmental implications."

Currently, Bangladesh is sheltering approximately 1.3 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas, with an annual increase of over 32,000 births in the camps. Despite immense pressure, Bangladesh continues its humanitarian efforts, emphasising that sustainable repatriation remains the only viable remedy.

The situation in Myanmar's Rakhine state has deteriorated further, with the Arakan Army now controlling most of the territory and an internally displaced population of over 538,000.

The crisis has spilled over the border, with more than 100,000 runaway Rohingya having arrived in Bangladesh since late 2023 and hundreds of Myanmar security personnel seeking refuge.

Professor Yunus expressed concern over shrinking international aid. The 2024 Joint Response Plan (JRP) secured only 64.4 per cent of its target. The newly launched 2025-26 JRP seeks $934.5 million, yet donor fatigue and recent cuts -- particularly by the United States -- threaten basic support, including food aid by the World Food Programme.

The chief adviser urged Qatar to step forward again, citing the gulf state's historic support, including strong diplomatic statements by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and extensive humanitarian contributions by Qatar Charity.

"Qatar can play a vital role in renewing global attention and increasing funding, particularly from OIC-member states."

Bangladesh also proposed hosting a 'High-Level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar' in New York this September under UN auspices and sought Qatar's active participation.

Recent developments include regional and international engagements -- at the BIMSTEC Summit, Boao Forum, and with ASEAN and UN leaders -- emphasizing a multilateral push for repatriation. Meanwhile, the Myanmar government has verified over 176,000 Rohingyas for repatriation.

Justice and accountability remain central to his remarks as he pointed out Bangladesh continues to support proceedings at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Financial contributions to the OIC's Rohingya fund are sought to sustain legal action against Myanmar's crimes.

"Let today's meeting be more than formalities. Let it be the start of a meaningful partnership," Dr Yunus concluded. "Let us work - together -- for humanity, for stability, and for justice. The world is watching. And for the Rohingyas, time is running out."

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com