By: Camp Correspondent
March 11, 2025
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has resumed humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees in Indonesia, easing concerns over potential aid cuts that had placed hundreds of refugees at risk.
Last week, Reuters reported that over 900 Rohingya refugees in Indonesia faced uncertainty after the United States, the largest donor supporting refugee programs, significantly reduced its funding.
The cutback raised fears that critical support—including food, shelter, and healthcare—could be withdrawn.
However, Jeff Labovitz, head of IOM Indonesia, confirmed today that assistance has been reinstated for Rohingya refugees currently residing in Pekanbaru, Sumatra.
While he assured that aid would continue for now, he did not clarify how long the support could be sustained.
In an email response, IOM acknowledged the challenges in securing consistent funding and emphasized that alternative solutions were being explored to ensure continued support for Rohingya refugees in Indonesia.
Uncertainty Over Future Funding
Despite IOM’s reassurance, questions remain about the long-term stability of humanitarian aid. The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has not yet issued a statement regarding the funding cuts, leaving many refugees uncertain about their future.
Indonesia currently hosts around 2,800 Rohingya refugees, according to United Nations estimates. Many of them depend entirely on international assistance to meet their basic needs, with limited opportunities for employment or legal resettlement.
Call for Sustained Support
Rohingya activists and humanitarian organizations are urging the international community to step up support to prevent further disruptions in aid.
The growing number of Rohingya arriving in Indonesia—fleeing persecution and deteriorating conditions in Myanmar and Bangladesh—has put additional strain on available resources.
With no clear resolution in sight for the Rohingya crisis, sustained international funding remains critical to ensuring the safety and well-being of refugees seeking protection in Indonesia.
