By: Camp Correspondent
April 19, 2025 | Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Despite renewed diplomatic initiatives, Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh say they cannot return to Myanmar’s Rakhine State under current conditions, citing widespread insecurity, destroyed villages, and the absence of legal rights. Their testimonies reflect growing skepticism over ongoing repatriation plans spearheaded by Bangladeshi authorities.
Speaking at the Sanggreng (Jolkeli) festival of the Rakhine community in Cox’s Bazar on Thursday, National Security Adviser and High Representative on Rohingya Issues, Dr. Khalilur Rahman, stated that Bangladesh is actively engaging with all parties to create a “favorable environment” in Rakhine for eventual repatriation.
“We are working with all parties so that a favourable condition for Rohingya repatriation is created in Rakhine. We hope that we will be successful,” Dr. Khalilur said.
Refugees Say Ground Realities Tell a Different Story
Inside the camps, however, Rohingya refugees remain deeply unconvinced.
“There is no peace or security in our homeland,” said Abdul Hamid, a refugee from Camp-5. “Our villages were burned. Many people are still missing or killed. How can we go back like this?”
Dr. Khalilur highlighted Myanmar’s recent agreement to accept 180,000 Rohingya as a diplomatic breakthrough. Yet, Rohingya community members argue that paper agreements mean little without real protection, restoration of citizenship, and the right to return to their original lands.
“Myanmar says they’ll take us back. But where will we live?” asked Nur Jahan, a mother of four from Camp-2W. “Our homes are gone. There is no guarantee of safety or rights.”
Deadline Pressure vs. Ground Fears
The adviser noted that under Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s interim leadership has directed efforts to ensure that repatriation begins before the next Eid. “We’ve kept all doors open and are making every effort,” he said.
He also urged the Rohingya community to ensure their collective representation at an upcoming United Nations conference, calling it essential to advancing the return process.
“I have told the Rohingyas that they must have their presence there collectively so that they can go back to their country,” he stated.
However, refugee voices reflect a consistent concern that participation in international forums must not be mistaken as consent for forced or premature return.
“We’ve heard these promises before,” said Fatema Khatun, a teacher from Camp-1E. “Without international protection, justice, and rights, returning means risking our lives again.”
Repatriation Must Be Anchored in Rights and Dignity
Humanitarian organizations and Rohingya advocates have echoed camp residents’ fears. They caution that any repatriation not grounded in voluntariness, dignity, and UN-monitored safety guarantees will only repeat past cycles of displacement.
While diplomatic engagement continues, Rohingya refugees emphasize that repatriation must not be rushed under pressure or timelines. Their message is clear: return is only possible when their identity is recognized, justice is addressed, and true safety exists on the ground.
