UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for stronger international efforts to address the continuing Rohingya crisis, warning that the community faces worsening insecurity and declining prospects for a lasting solution.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that nearly a decade after the major violence of 2017, Rohingya people in Myanmar, Bangladesh and other parts of the region continue to face serious threats. Reduced international funding has also weakened access to essential humanitarian assistance.
In Myanmar, Rohingya and other communities remain trapped in conflict and displacement. They continue to face serious human rights abuses, with violations attributed to both the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army.
According to the UN, hundreds of civilians continue to lose their lives each year, while restrictions on movement and humanitarian access make the situation even more difficult. Rohingya people are also vulnerable to forced recruitment, arbitrary detention and sexual violence.
Guterres has again urged all parties to protect civilians in accordance with international human rights law, humanitarian law and refugee law. He also praised Bangladesh and other countries for hosting refugees from Myanmar and encouraged governments to continue protecting people escaping the crisis.
The UN chief expressed particular concern about the growing number of Rohingya who are dying while attempting dangerous sea journeys. He called for stronger regional cooperation on search and rescue operations, safe landing arrangements and efforts to combat human trafficking.
Guterres also voiced concern over the spread of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech directed at Rohingya communities across Myanmar and neighbouring countries.
He urged the international community to strengthen cooperation toward an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement that tackles the underlying causes of Myanmar’s prolonged crisis.
The UN Special Envoy for Myanmar, Julie Bishop, continues to engage with various stakeholders in efforts to reduce violence and promote an inclusive political process led and owned by the people of Myanmar.
Until conditions become suitable for the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees, Guterres called for continued humanitarian assistance, as well as support for livelihoods and greater self reliance among displaced communities.
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