In light of shifting international geopolitics, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday (23 April) urged Qatar to intensify its efforts to resolve the protracted Rohingya crisis by mobilising Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries and amplifying pressure on the global community to expedite repatriation.
“Qatar can use its good offices to put pressure on Myanmar to begin the repatriation of Rohingya people without further delay,” said Prof Yunus at a high-level roundtable discussion held during the Earthna Summit.
The session was also attended by Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, CEO of Qatar Foundation and sister to the Emir of Qatar.
He called on all stakeholders to work in unison “for humanity, for stability and for justice,” emphasising the urgency of a coordinated response.
The United States has welcomed Prof Yunus’ approach, which seeks to transform diplomatic dialogue into actionable outcomes.
“Let us ensure that today’s discussion does not conclude with formalities alone, but marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership—one that keeps the Rohingya crisis at the forefront of our shared humanitarian priorities and works collectively towards lasting solutions,” he added.
Prof Yunus warned that the prolonged displacement of the Rohingyas in camps across Bangladesh is breeding frustration, with rising criminal activity and attempts at illegal migration bearing testament to their desperation. “If the problem persists further, it may affect the security and stability of the entire region and jeopardise development initiatives,” he cautioned.
He also noted with concern that global focus on the crisis is waning, eclipsed by emerging conflicts elsewhere in the world.
As of 19 March 2025, the Government of Bangladesh had submitted data on 829,036 Rohingyas to Myanmar authorities.
Of these, 239,056 individuals were verified, and only 176,198 were recognised as “persons who resided in Myanmar” by the Myanmar government—a figure that starkly illustrates the slow pace of repatriation efforts.
Dhaka has made it clear to Washington and other partners that peace in Myanmar will remain elusive unless the Rohingya issue is resolved with justice and urgency.
