Under Secretary Uzra Zeya recently addressed a high-level side event during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), co-hosted by Bangladesh. Zeya’s remarks highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis faced by Rohingya refugees and emphasized Bangladesh’s critical role in providing refuge.
She also announced a significant increase in U.S. humanitarian aid to help alleviate the suffering of Rohingya refugees.
The Ongoing Rohingya Crisis: Global Call for Action
The Rohingya crisis began in 2017 when nearly 750,000 Rohingya Muslims fled Burma (Myanmar) after facing brutal persecution. Entire villages were destroyed, and countless lives were lost.
This exodus marked a humanitarian disaster that continues to this day, as the Rohingya remain stateless and reliant on neighboring Bangladesh for survival. Despite international outcry, conditions in Burma have not improved enough for safe repatriation.
Bangladesh, particularly the Cox’s Bazar region, is now home to one of the world’s largest refugee camps. About one million Rohingya currently live there, facing daily challenges such as overcrowding, limited access to education, and lack of proper healthcare.
U.S. Support for Bangladesh and the Rohingya Refugees
In her UNGA speech, Under Secretary Zeya praised Bangladesh for its extraordinary efforts in providing shelter to the Rohingya. She acknowledged the immense pressure on the country’s resources and called for further international support.
Zeya announced that the United States will provide nearly $199 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support the Rohingya refugees and the communities hosting them.
This aid is critical for:
- Providing shelter, food, and healthcare to refugees in Cox’s Bazar and other areas.
- Enhancing education and skills training for the Rohingya, helping them integrate better into society and preparing them for a possible voluntary return.
The U.S. has a long-standing commitment to helping Rohingya refugees, having already resettled nearly 17,000 Rohingya since 2009.
International Cooperation and Sustainable Solutions
The international community, particularly ASEAN members, plays a vital role in addressing the crisis. Zeya urged Bangladesh to continue working with regional partners to secure further support. However, sustainable solutions must go beyond temporary aid. Ensuring refugees have access to education and employment opportunities is crucial to empowering the Rohingya to build a future while awaiting safe conditions for repatriation.
The U.S. is committed to working with Bangladesh and other nations to:
- Create conditions for voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation of the Rohingya.
- Address the root causes of the crisis by advocating for justice and accountability in Burma.
Summary of U.S. Aid Efforts
Action |
Impact |
|---|---|
| Nearly $199 million in new U.S. aid | Supports Rohingya refugees and host communities |
| Resettlement of 17,000 Rohingya since 2009 | Provides refugees with a path to rebuild their lives |
A Request for Continued International Support
As the crisis enters its seventh year, the Rohingya continue to face enormous challenges. Bangladesh has shouldered a significant portion of this burden, but global support is essential to ensure long-term solutions.
The U.S. has reinforced its commitment, and Zeya’s remarks serve as a reminder that the world cannot turn its back on the Rohingya people. Sustainable solutions require not only immediate aid but also collective action to address the crisis at its roots.
Sources: THX News & US Department of State.
