The Government of Japan has announced a $3.5 million contribution to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to implement a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing the living conditions of Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox’s Bazar district and Bhasan Char.
The agreement was formalised through an Exchange of Notes signed by His Excellency SAIDA Shinichi, Japan’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, and Chief of Mission for IOM Bangladesh, Lance Bonneau on 27 April, said a press release.
The project is set to benefit approximately 500,000 Rohingya refugees, alongside members of the host community in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. Key areas of intervention will include site management and development, protection services, shelter and non-food items, LPG distribution, water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as livelihood support for refugees in Bhasan Char.
Additionally, disaster risk reduction and protection services will be provided to host communities in Cox’s Bazar.
Ambassador SAIDA expressed optimism that this support from the Japanese government would significantly improve the quality of life for both the Rohingya refugees and their host communities.
“I am delighted to sign this Exchange of Notes today, following my recent visit to the camps in Cox’s Bazar. I am hopeful that this comprehensive plan will greatly enhance the living conditions of both the refugees and the host communities in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
The five sectors we are focusing on are essential to improving protection, quality of life, and resilience, and will have a wide-reaching impact in both the camps and surrounding areas.
Japan will continue to work towards sustainable solutions in cooperation with international organisations like IOM,” stated Ambassador SAIDA.
Lance Bonneau, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Bangladesh, noted that, despite the crisis entering its eighth year, the needs of the Rohingya remain significant, though international attention has waned.
“We are deeply grateful for Japan’s continued support to both the refugees and host communities. This contribution will enable IOM and its partners to meet the urgent life-saving needs of the refugees, including the provision of water and shelter. It will also enhance the resilience of both the refugees and their host communities to climate-related disasters and other challenges. We remain committed to supporting both groups in close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh,” said Bonneau.
Since the onset of the Rohingya refugee crisis in August 2017, Japan has been a steadfast donor, contributing over $250 million to the response through IOM, other UN agencies, and NGOs in Bangladesh, including this latest funding initiative.
