11 Nations Pledge Support to Bangladesh Over Rohingya Crisis

File photo

Eleven nations have pledged their continued support to Bangladesh in addressing the long-standing Rohingya humanitarian crisis.

The joint statement, issued by the French Embassy in Dhaka, was endorsed by the high commissions and embassies of Canada, Australia, the UK, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, Finland, and India.

The statement noted that eight years after the mass displacement caused by the Myanmar military, over 1.1 million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, with new arrivals still seeking refuge. It praised Bangladesh for providing shelter, safety, and life-saving humanitarian assistance amid ongoing challenges.

While Rohingya refugees aspire to return home, the international community stressed that safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation is currently not possible due to conditions in Myanmar. The statement called for addressing the root causes of displacement, including creating a peaceful and stable Myanmar.

The nations condemned escalating violence and human rights abuses by the Myanmar military and other armed groups, urging an immediate end to all violence and safe, unimpeded humanitarian access. They also called for the release of those unjustly detained and reaffirmed their support for international accountability for violations of humanitarian law.

The statement highlighted ongoing cooperation with Bangladesh and the international community, including efforts to enhance Rohingya self-reliance, support local communities hosting refugees, and prepare refugees for eventual return.

The joint declaration emphasized the importance of including Rohingya voices in decision-making, ensuring they can live safe, purposeful, and dignified lives. It concluded by reaffirming the international community’s commitment to durable solutions and addressing the root causes of the crisis.