Interim Government of Bangladesh Must Adopt Human Rights-Based Measures for Rohingya Refugees
Media Release from Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
For Immediate Release 3 September 2024
In light of the escalating violence between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Burmese military junta in Rakhine State, the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK) calls for urgent and decisive action by the interim government of Bangladesh to ensure the protection and rights of Rohingya refugees. The ongoing conflict has forced many Rohingya to undertake perilous journeys to escape violence, only to face tragic outcomes, including drowning and pushbacks by Bangladesh authorities.
BROUK extends its sincere gratitude to the government of Bangladesh for its ongoing efforts to host over a million Rohingya refugees, providing them with shelter and safety amid one of the world’s most protracted humanitarian crises. We also commend Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh, for his recent commitment, expressed in his first major policy address, to continue supporting the Rohingya community. His pledge underscores the critical role Bangladesh plays in both humanitarian support and economic stability.
“The world is closely observing Bangladesh’s response to the Rohingya refugee crisis. The interim government has a crucial opportunity to affirm its commitment to human rights by immediately halting pushbacks and ensuring that all refugees receive the protection and support guaranteed by international law,” said Tun Khin, President of Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK. “This is a defining moment for Bangladesh to act with urgency and restore the dignity and safety of those who have endured unimaginable suffering.”
The plight of Rohingya refugees is exacerbated by the dangerous sea crossings they undertake, fleeing violence only to be met with further suffering. Reports indicate that many boats have capsized or been forcibly returned, violating the principle of non-refoulement as outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, which prohibits returning individuals to places where they face serious threats.
BROUK urges the interim government of Bangladesh to take the following constructive and necessary measures to address this crisis and safeguard the rights of Rohingya refugees:
1. End Boat Pushbacks and Uphold Refugee Protection: Immediately cease the practice of pushing back Rohingya boats and ensure that all individuals seeking safety are granted access to protection. This is a fundamental obligation under international law. Bangladesh should ratify the Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.
2. Enhance Humanitarian Support: Remove restrictions on the provision of full education and health services, and construction of decent housing with proper sanitation. Improve livelihood opportunities for refugees, ensuring their basic needs are met and their rights are protected.
3. Strengthen Security and Prevent Violence: Implement robust measures to protect refugees from violence and exploitation. This involves enhancing security within the refugee camps, preventing recruitment by armed groups, and ensuring that refugees are safe from harm.
4. Promote Effective International Collaboration: Engage actively with international organisations and human rights bodies to address the needs of Rohingya refugees. Collaboration should focus on creating sustainable solutions for refugee protection and support.
5. Uphold the Principle of Non-Refoulement: The interim government must strictly adhere to the principle of non-refoulement, prohibiting the return of refugees to a country where they face serious threats. Any plans or discussions regarding repatriation must be suspended until there are verifiable guarantees of safety and human rights protections for the Rohingya in Burma, with comprehensive consultations involving international human rights organizations.
Addressing these critical issues provides the interim government with a vital chance to affirm its dedication to human rights and international norms.
We also call on the international community to fully fund the humanitarian needs of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, which donors have consistently failed to do.
“The interim government must seize this moment to enact meaningful, rights-respecting measures for Rohingya refugees and the international community must provide funding and other support to ensure this happens. Bangladesh’s leadership is essential to ensuring justice and protection for those in need,” said Tun Khin, President of Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK.
The interim government of Bangladesh has a unique opportunity to transform its approach towards Rohingya refugees. By adopting these recommendations, Bangladesh can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of some of the world’s most vulnerable people.
For more information, contact: Tun Khin at +44 788 871 4866.
