UN chief warns cutting Rohingya aid in Bangladesh would be an ‘unmitigated disaster’

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that reducing humanitarian aid for the Rohingya refugees, who rely entirely on such assistance, would lead to an “unmitigated disaster”.

On Friday, he joined an Iftar event with over a million Rohingya at the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar.

The UN chief highlighted that the resources available for refugees in 2024 would be reduced by 40 percent in 2025.

“We can’t accept this. Because people will suffer and even people will die,” he said.

"My voice will not end until the international community understands that they have the obligation to invest now in supporting the Rohingya refugees here in Bangladesh and to ensure that those who have already suffered so much are taken care of."

The event, organised by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, was attended by Guterres as part of his four-day visit to Bangladesh.

A translator was present to interpret the UN secretary-general’s speech from English into the Rohingya language.

Guterres also discussed the deteriorating situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, describing it as “dire”.

He said, "I have to confess that we are on the verge of a deep humanitarian crisis.

“With the announcement of cuts in financial assistance, we are facing the dramatic risk of reducing food rations for the Rohingya refugees."

The UN chief continued, "The people here have already suffered a great deal. We will not have an additional problem. We will do everything to solve the problem of the food ration.

"The entire refugee population depends on humanitarian aid. I repeat: Cox’s Bazar is ground zero for the impact of budget cuts on people in desperate need.

"Here it is clear, budget reductions are not about numbers on a balance sheet. Funding cuts have dramatic human costs."

The secretary-general highlighted that the Rohingya refugees want to return to their homeland Myanmar.

“The primary solution to this crisis is to ensure their safe, voluntary, and dignified return," he said.

Guterres emphasised the need for a democratic environment in Myanmar.

He said, "My message to all parties in Myanmar is clear: exercise maximum restraint, prioritise the protection of civilians under International Humanitarian Law, and prevent further incitement of communal tension and violence – paving the way for democracy to take root and creating the conditions for the Rohingyas to be able to return home, as they all wish."

“Until the conflict and systematic persecution ends, we must support those who need protection here in Bangladesh,” he added.

The UN chief said ultimately the solution to the Rohingya crisis must be found in Myanmar.

“We will not give up until conditions allow for the voluntary, safe and sustainable return for all refugees here.

"Until now, I urge the international community not to reduce the support to Rohingya refugees, they must step up and guarantee your wellbeing."

Guterres also explained his decision to attend the Iftar with the Rohingya refugees.

"Fasting and then having Iftar together you are the proof of my deep respect for your religion and your culture," he said.

"I am here to shine a global spotlight on the plight – but also the potential of the Rohingya refugees."

He highlighted the resilience of over one million Rohingya refugees, who were forced to flee Myanmar eight years ago after facing decades of discrimination and persecution.

“Many others arrived more recently, escaping brutal violations of human rights, triggered generalised anti-Muslim hate.”

Guterres said, “Rohingya refugees are seeking safety, dignity, and protection for themselves and their families.

"I met and spoke with many today – and was inspired by your courage and moved by your determination.

"Many shared harrowing accounts of their ordeals in Myanmar and their journeys here," he added.