By: Camp Correspondent
Cox’s Bazar, June 13, 2025 |
Around 400 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh’s overcrowded camps have been left without access to food aid and cooking fuel after refusing to undergo biometric verification by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), raising urgent questions about consent, accountability, and survival in one of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
The verification impasse began after UNHCR launched a mandatory biometric registration drive in May 2023 across Nayapara and Kutupalong camps—requiring refugees to update facial, iris, and fingerprint data in exchange for continued access to food rations and essential services.
While more than 1.13 million refugees have reportedly complied with the process, roughly 400 individuals have declined, citing mistrust and fears over data misuse. As a result, they have been removed from aid distribution lists—cut off from the basic food assistance that sustains daily life in the camps.
“Some of us were warned there would be ‘consequences later,’ but no one clearly explained what those would be,” said one refugee, speaking anonymously. “Now we don’t even have rice.”
A History of Mistrust
This isn’t just a technical dispute over ID cards—it’s rooted in a deep trauma that remains unresolved.
In 2021, UNHCR faced criticism after it was accused of sharing refugee data with the Myanmar government—allegedly without obtaining full consent. That incident, combined with the persistent uncertainty around repatriation plans, has fueled fears among refugees that biometric records could someday be used against them—either to pressure forced returns or to deny them protection.
“There is no transparency,” said a youth leader in the camp. “We don’t know where the data is going or who will have it.”
UNHCR, for its part, maintains that the biometric update is critical to prevent fraud, ensure aid reaches those who need it most, and improve services. In a public statement, the agency said the process follows international standards for data protection and that counseling and opt-out procedures were offered.
“We inform refugees about the reasons and safeguards of biometric collection,” a UNHCR spokesperson said. “But individuals who have no protection risks and choose not to verify are no longer eligible for food assistance.”
They emphasized that registration remains open and unverified individuals can still complete the process to restore aid access.
The Human Cost of Policy
For the 400 Rohingya now cut off from food aid, the issue is no longer about verification—it’s about survival. While they reportedly still have access to shelter and healthcare, the lack of monthly food rations has forced some families to rely on neighbors or take on risky informal work.
Rights advocates warn that blanket aid suspensions could disproportionately harm the most vulnerable—especially the elderly, widows, and the chronically ill.
“People shouldn’t be punished with hunger for raising legitimate concerns,” said one humanitarian official working in Cox’s Bazar. “This is a protection issue, not just an administrative one.”
Shrinking Funds, Growing Tensions
The controversy also comes at a time when funding for the Rohingya humanitarian response is rapidly drying up. With the 2025 Joint Response Plan less than 20% funded halfway through the year, aid agencies are under intense pressure to justify expenditures and prevent misallocation.
But critics say that efficiency must not come at the cost of dignity.
“We understand the need for accountability,” said one local volunteer. “But aid can’t be conditional on silent compliance. Refugees must have the right to ask questions and feel safe doing so.”
What Happens Next?
The impasse has stirred widespread concern and revived calls for more transparent, inclusive decision-making in the camps. Several organizations have urged UNHCR to reopen negotiations with the affected refugees, offering clearer information about data usage and a pathway to rejoin aid programs without coercion.
“Food is not a privilege—it’s a right,” said a statement by a regional advocacy group. “And no one should go hungry in the name of security.”
As the crisis deepens and monsoon conditions worsen, the lives of hundreds now hang in the balance—not because they fled war, but because they feared what might come after the scan of a fingerprint.
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