In a letter addressed to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated the organisation’s steadfast support for the country in managing the humanitarian impact of the Rohingya crisis.
The letter, sent on Tuesday (25 February), underscores the mounting challenges Bangladesh faces due to the prolonged displacement of Rohingya refugees, exacerbated by the deteriorating situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, according to the Chief Adviser’s office.
Guterres emphasised the global community’s continued commitment to aiding Bangladesh, particularly in facilitating humanitarian assistance and livelihood support for displaced communities.
"I would like to reiterate the strong solidarity of the United Nations with Bangladesh and our support for the transition process under your leadership," he wrote.
Expressing his concern over the ongoing crisis, he acknowledged the strain it has placed on Bangladesh and the broader region.
"I share your concerns regarding the impact of the Rohingya crisis on Bangladesh and the region, as well as the worsening humanitarian situation in Rakhine," he stated.
The UN chief reaffirmed his commitment to a diplomatic resolution, stressing the importance of working closely with regional actors, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other stakeholders, to secure a political solution in Myanmar.
He underscored the necessity of establishing "conditions conducive to the safe and voluntary return of the Rohingya to Rakhine."
Guterres also pledged to prioritise humanitarian assistance, instructing senior UN officials to explore ways to maximise aid and livelihood support for affected communities in both Bangladesh and Myanmar.
"I have requested my senior managers to provide guidance to the United Nations Country Teams in Bangladesh and Myanmar on how we can maximise humanitarian aid and livelihood support," he said.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming high-level conference on the Rohingya and other minority communities in Myanmar, viewing it as an opportunity to renew global engagement and foster sustainable solutions.
"I am hopeful that the High-Level Conference on the situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar will galvanise renewed global attention and contribute to developing a wider range of solutions," he remarked.
Guterres concluded by noting his upcoming visit to Bangladesh in March, during the holy month of Ramadan, where he intends to further discussions on the crisis and reaffirm the UN’s commitment to supporting the country’s humanitarian efforts.
