It’s been 6 years since Rohingyas fled to Bangladesh in order to save themselves from the ongoing genocide planned by Myanmar’s security forces. The UNHCR has emphasized its concern recently in the UN media.
According to the UNHCR, funding has declined against Rohingya as humanitarian actors are focusing on only the most critical of humanitarian needs. This act has led to a reduction of food assistance, raising concerns over consequences such as rising rates of malnutrition, child labour, and gender-based violence.
“In Bangladesh, funding shortfalls are already adversely affecting the wellbeing of nearly one million Rohingya refugees. Any further cuts to the Rohingya response will severely impact access to food, shelter materials, cooking fuels, sanitation facilities, and livelihood activities,” said UNHCR in Bangladesh.
UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh Johannes Van Der Klaauw said, “The Rohingya response is facing a severe funding crisis, illustrated by two recent cuts in food assistance. There is an urgent need to invest in collective efforts to allow Rohingya to become self-reliant as they cannot, and do not wish to, remain dependent on humanitarian aid.”
