The Rohingya crisis in Bangladesh is becoming increasingly precarious due to shifting global priorities, geopolitical complexities, and a severe funding shortfall, experts have warned. Addressing these challenges and ensuring a sustainable future for the Rohingya response will require concerted efforts from the international community, the Bangladesh government, donors, and humanitarian partners.
These concerns were voiced at an event titled “Plumbers of the World: Legacy and Realities of Rohingya Response”, jointly organised by Oxfam in Bangladesh and the Office of the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC) in Cox’s Bazar on Wednesday.
The event highlighted Oxfam’s innovations, best practices, and key learnings in Rohingya humanitarian response, with a particular focus on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. Speakers also underscored major challenges, including funding constraints, resource depletion, and waning global attention.
Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, refugee relief and repatriation commissioner, cautioned that the crisis was becoming more complex, particularly in light of the recent decision by the US to pause funding for Rohingya refugees. “This will further exacerbate the crisis,” he remarked. “Among the eight or nine key sectors in Rohingya response, WASH management is one of the most critical. Providing safe water, sanitation, and health protection for such a large population in a confined space is an immense challenge.”
Security Concerns and Livelihood Challenges
Mohammad Kamrul Hasan, secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, who attended as chief guest, stressed that the ultimate goal should be the repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar. “The Joint Response Plan (JRP) 2024 has created some opportunities for self-reliance and livelihoods upon their return, but the reality is that they remain largely inactive in the camps,” he said. “This situation poses security risks for all, and we cannot rule out the potential for extremism or militant activities.”
Sumbul Rizvi, UNHCR representative in Bangladesh, echoed these concerns, noting that while the Rohingya community ultimately wishes to return to Myanmar, security considerations remain paramount. “Many Rohingya are still attempting to enter Bangladesh through the border, which could have significant repercussions for Bangladesh,” she cautioned. “A comprehensive strategy is needed to address both immediate and long-term challenges.”
The Role of Local Communities and Humanitarian Organisations
Ashish Damle, country director of Oxfam in Bangladesh, lauded the generosity of local communities who first provided aid when the Rohingya arrived in Bangladesh. “It was the local people who initially offered shelter, food, and clothing,” he said. “Despite its own struggles, the Bangladesh government allocated resources, ensured security, and facilitated humanitarian assistance.”
The event featured two panel discussions—one on the current status and future of WASH for both local and Rohingya communities in Cox’s Bazar, and another on practical steps towards a sustainable future. A two-day photography exhibition, showcasing compelling narratives from the Rohingya community, was also organised as part of the programme.
High-Level Participation and Calls for Action
The conference was attended by senior officials, including Mohammad Salahuddin, district commissioner of Cox’s Bazar; David Bagden, principal coordinator of the Inter-Sector Coordination Group (ISCG) for Rohingya Refugee Response; Mohammad Nazmul Abedin from the Refugee Cell of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief; and Dr. Silja Rajendran, head of sub-office at UN Women. Representatives from government agencies, NGOs, INGOs, and civil society organisations also participated in discussions on the way forward for the Rohingya response.
As funding shortfalls and shifting global priorities continue to strain humanitarian efforts, experts reiterated the urgency of sustained international engagement and resource allocation to ensure the dignity and well-being of the Rohingya community in Bangladesh.
