by Hafizur Rahman
Rakhine State, Myanmar | May 15, 2026
A recently published report has raised concerns about increasing allegations of sexual violence against Rohingya women and girls in areas of northern Rakhine State under the control of the Arakan Army (AA/ULA).
According to the report, Rohingya women and girls are facing heightened risks of rape, gang rape, threats of sexual violence, and abuse amid ongoing conflict, displacement, and restrictions in the region.
The report further alleged that some women were detained without outside contact and experienced abuse during arrests and military-related operations.
Since late 2023, continued fighting in Rakhine State has displaced large numbers of Rohingya civilians, with reports indicating that more than 150,000 people have fled to Bangladesh during the latest wave of conflict and insecurity.
Human rights organizations and advocacy groups have repeatedly warned that Rohingya communities remain exposed to violence, movement restrictions, lack of legal protection, and severe humanitarian conditions in conflict-affected areas.
The Arakan Army, an ethnic armed organization engaged in conflict with the Myanmar Junta, currently controls large parts of Rakhine State.
The report called for independent investigations into allegations of abuse and urged the international community to strengthen protection efforts for Rohingya civilians.
The Arakan Army has previously denied some allegations of abuses raised by rights groups and monitoring organizations.
