UN Warns Funding Cuts Could Deepen Rohingya Crisis in Bangladesh

UN Warns Funding Cuts Could Deepen Rohingya Crisis in Bangladesh
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The UN refugee agency has warned that declining humanitarian funding could sharply worsen conditions for nearly 1.2 million Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh, almost nine years after hundreds of thousands fled violence in Myanmar.

According to Reuters, pressure on aid operations has increased as global crises grow and donor budgets shrink. UNHCR said around 150,000 more Rohingya Muslims have arrived since early 2024, escaping renewed conflict in Myanmar.

The UN and Bangladesh recently launched a $710.5 million appeal to support food, shelter, healthcare, education and protection services. However, the appeal is already 26 percent lower than last year’s and only about 60 percent funded.

Life in the crowded camps of Cox’s Bazar remains difficult, with refugees facing extreme weather, disease, insecurity, limited education and few job opportunities. Food ration cuts have further deepened hardship, especially for women, children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

UNHCR urged donors to maintain support until safe and voluntary returns to Myanmar become possible.