UN Averts Food Aid Cuts for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

The United Nations food agency has successfully avoided drastic cuts to food aid for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, who were facing potential reductions in monthly rations from $12.50 to $6, RFA reported. Starting in April, the ration will be set at $12 for those in Cox’s Bazar and $13 for those in Bhashan Char, an island where the Bangladesh government has encouraged relocation to ease overcrowding in camps.

The U.S. has announced $73 million in new assistance through the World Food Program (WFP) to support over 1 million refugees, marking its commitment as the largest donor to the Rohingya crisis since 2017. Despite the averted cuts, WFP officials stress that ongoing funding is essential to meet the immense needs of the refugees. Human rights advocates warn that without sustained support, increased hunger and disease could follow. Refugees expressed relief at the news, emphasizing the necessity of adequate food aid for survival.