by Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar — October 9, 2026
The United Council of Rohingya (UCR) has called for an independent investigation into alleged crimes committed against Rohingya civilians by the Arakan Army (AA), during a meeting with Nicholas Koumjian, head of the United Nations’ Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM).
According to information provided by UCR, members of its President Panel and Executive Committee met Koumjian and an IIMM delegation at the organisation’s office in Cox’s Bazar on Friday morning.
The meeting focused on international justice efforts, accountability for serious crimes against Rohingya civilians and the work of the IIMM.
UCR representatives raised concerns about reported abuses against Rohingya communities in Arakan State, including allegations involving the AA.
They called for credible allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity to be independently examined and for those responsible for serious international crimes to face justice.
The organisation stressed that accountability should apply to all perpetrators, regardless of their position, identity or affiliation.
During the discussion, the IIMM delegation explained the mechanism’s work in collecting, preserving and analysing evidence of serious international crimes committed in Myanmar, according to UCR’s account of the meeting.
The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2018. It gathers and analyses evidence that may be used in criminal proceedings before national or international courts. The mechanism does not itself prosecute suspects or conduct trials.
The meeting also covered international legal efforts concerning crimes against the Rohingya, including proceedings at the International Criminal Court, the genocide case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice, and legal action in Argentina.
UCR said justice for Rohingya survivors must include establishing the truth, holding perpetrators accountable and protecting civilians from further violence.
The organisation also linked accountability to the possibility of Rohingya refugees returning safely and voluntarily to their homeland, with guarantees of security, citizenship and fundamental rights.
No announcement of a new investigation or specific commitment by the IIMM concerning the allegations against the AA was included in the information provided about the meeting.
