The Rohingya exodus: 6 years on

Rohingya refugees walk towards Cox's Bazar fleeing from military oppression in Myanmar. File Photo: Reuters

Six years and counting. Over 1.1 million Rohingya refugees have sought solace in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar after waves of displacement dating back to 1978, with the most recent influx in 2017. This makes them the world's largest refugee population. While the world has taken note, the journey for the Rohingya has been anything but easy.

Life in the crowded camps of Cox's Bazar is a daily testament to the indomitable spirit of the Rohingya people. Lacking the basic necessities of life – food, water, shelter, and healthcare – the refugees endure. Stateless in Myanmar and unable to return, they navigate a challenging existence where their identity is both a source of pride and persecution.

Defined as a protracted situation by the UNHCR, the Rohingya crisis shows no imminent signs of resolution. The world, however, cannot afford to turn a blind eye. Protracted displacement leads to deteriorating living conditions, exploitation, loss of hope, and immense strain on host countries. It's essential to recognise the grave implications this has for the Rohingya and for Bangladesh, a nation already grappling with its own challenges.

There are actionable solutions. Beyond the immediate necessity of food, water, shelter, and healthcare, we must invest in more durable solutions, such as repatriation, local integration, and resettlement. These efforts, combined with diplomatic pressure to restore peace and democracy in Myanmar, could pave the way for a brighter future for the Rohingya.

Photo: Reuters

Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, recently expressed gratitude for Bangladesh's compassion in hosting the Rohingya. She noted that the US has provided over $2.1 billion in humanitarian assistance since August 2017. This recent additional $74 million commitment towards the humanitarian response is a beacon of hope and a call to action for other nations.

However, repatriation remains a divisive issue. Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen emphasised the importance of Rohingyas returning to their country of origin, hinting at global promises not kept. He reiterated Bangladesh's stance, emphasising the priority of repatriation while recognising the complexities and external pressures surrounding the issue.

The challenges are undeniable. In a world where refugees are becoming alarmingly common, the Rohingya's future hinges on their safe repatriation or successful integration. Their history in the Rakhine state of Myanmar and interactions with the Rakhine Buddhists make their return complex. 

Yet, amidst the adversity, their integration into Cox's Bazar's society, buoyed by shared language, religion, work, education, and marriage, indicates resilience and adaptability.

For many Rohingya, Bangladesh may offer more than just shelter. It offers a chance at the life they were denied in their homeland. The road ahead is indeed challenging. Building a future together requires collective action, compassion, and a shared commitment to human dignity. 

The Rohingya people's journey has been long, but with global solidarity, their destination, whether in Myanmar or elsewhere, can be one of hope, unity, and progress.

Safen Roy. Sketch: TBS

Safen Roy is a contributor to The Business Standard.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.