UN Refugee Chief Warns of Hunger Risks for Rohingya Amid Aid Cuts
UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi has expressed deep concerns over potential funding cuts that could exacerbate hunger and insecurity among the Rohingya refugees residing in southeastern Bangladesh, Anadolu Agency reported. Since fleeing a military crackdown in Myanmar in 2017, over 1.2 million Rohingya have sought refuge in the Cox’s Bazar district, relying heavily on foreign aid for survival.
During his visit to Bangladesh on March 1, 2025, Grandi highlighted the critical role of donor support in sustaining the humanitarian efforts for these refugees. He warned that a significant decrease in foreign aid could jeopardize the extensive work undertaken by the Bangladeshi government and various aid agencies, putting thousands at risk of hunger, disease, and insecurity.
Grandi’s visit comes amid a notable shift in U.S. foreign aid policy, which raises concerns about the future of support for the Rohingya. In meetings with Bangladeshi transitional government head Muhammad Yunus, Grandi emphasized the need for increased funding to address the urgent needs of the refugees, particularly as U.S. assistance is deemed crucial.
Yunus reiterated the importance of U.S. aid during discussions with U.S. officials in Dhaka earlier this month, stressing that ongoing support is vital for the well-being of the Rohingya population living in overcrowded and challenging conditions. The situation remains precarious, underscoring the urgent need for international commitment to assist the vulnerable Rohingya community.
