Bangladesh Seeks Rohingya Repatriation Amid Ongoing Challenges

Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus expressed hope that Rohingya refugees could celebrate next Eid in Myanmar, yet significant hurdles remain, DW news agency reported. Over 1 million Rohingya live in camps in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char after fleeing Myanmar’s 2017 military crackdown and ongoing conflict in Rakhine State.

Myanmar recently confirmed 180,000 Rohingya eligible for return, following verification talks with Bangladesh. However, repatriation depends on ensuring safety and dignity, with continued fighting between Myanmar’s military junta and the Arakan Army (AA) rebel group complicating the situation.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Cox’s Bazar, proposing a humanitarian aid corridor from Bangladesh to Myanmar to support safe returns. Dialogue with the AA is considered essential, as they control much of Rakhine State and have affirmed support for Rohingya repatriation.

Human rights advocates stress that citizenship rights and protection against persecution are critical before any return. Bangladesh continues to push for international support, with a UN conference planned to address the Rohingya crisis later this year.