RRRC, Oxfam to assess Rohingya crisis costs, impacts

The Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner's (RRRC) Office in collaboration with Oxfam in Bangladesh has launched a new research initiative aimed at evaluating the extensive economic, social, and environmental impacts of the ongoing Rohingya crisis.

The research titled "The Cost of the Rohingya Crisis: Current Realities and Future" is expected to contribute to data-driven policy recommendations for sustainable management and mitigation of the crisis, reads a press release.

A consultation event held today (13 November) in Dhaka introduced the research concept, engaging government officials, UN representatives, NGOs, and academics in a discussion on the far-reaching consequences of the crisis.

The participants shared insights into the profound and varied impacts affecting both the Rohingya and host communities and underscored the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

At the event, Additional Secretary and RRRC Commissioner Mohammed Mizanur Rahman emphasised the importance of policy-informed research, noting, "Bangladesh has shown unwavering support and humanity in hosting the Rohingya. However, the ongoing demands of this crisis require informed strategies and shared responsibilities.

"Through this research, we aim to build a comprehensive foundation for policy recommendations better to support the affected communities and the broader society."

Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief Secretary Md Kamrul Hasan reiterated the critical nature of this research for shaping national policies and galvanising global support.

He said, "The Rohingya crisis impacts every facet of our society—from our natural resources to public services. This study will highlight these realities to the global community and the need for shared responsibility and international collaboration."

Country Director for Oxfam in Bangladesh Ashish Damle said, "The Rohingya crisis is not just a humanitarian issue; it is an environmental and economic challenge affecting the very foundations of the host communities. This research will illuminate these costs and help guide our efforts towards meaningful, sustainable solutions for both Rohingya people and host communities."

Former deputy secretary and advisor to Oxfam in Bangladesh Dr Shariful Alam shared details about the research concept.

The Rohingya crisis, which has placed immense pressure on Bangladesh's natural resources, public services, and economy, continues to be one of the country's most significant humanitarian and development challenges.

The study seeks to explore the impacts across various dimensions, including socio-economic, environmental, cultural, administrative, and security.

Throughout the consultation, participants underscored both the immediate and long-term impacts of the Rohingya crisis, from environmental degradation to socio-economic pressures on host communities.

RRRC and Oxfam in Bangladesh expressed commitment to engaging with all local and international stakeholders to advance this initiative, with the goal of crafting actionable, sustainable solutions.

They urged stakeholders at all levels to contribute to this collective effort, ensuring that the impacts of the Rohingya crisis are fully understood and effectively addressed for the benefit of both displaced people from Myanmar and host communities.