UK, France among 11 western countries pledge support for Rohingya crisis

On the eighth anniversary of the Rohingya exodus from Myanmar’s Rakhine State to Bangladesh, 11 Western countries—Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK—issued a joint statement pledging solidarity with Bangladesh. 

The statement was shared by the French Embassy in Dhaka via its X handle and Facebook page on Monday morning.

The statement acknowledged the Myanmar military’s actions that led to the displacement of over 1.1 million Rohingya currently residing in Bangladesh, with new arrivals continuing to join refugee camps. 

It commended the resilience of the Rohingya amid ongoing challenges, including deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions in Rakhine State.

The 11 nations expressed gratitude to Bangladesh’s interim government and its people for providing shelter, security, and life-saving humanitarian aid to the Rohingya, particularly recent arrivals. 

Recognising the refugees’ desire to return to Myanmar, the statement noted that current conditions in Myanmar do not allow for voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable repatriation. 

Addressing the root causes of displacement requires a peaceful and stable Myanmar, which remains unfeasible at present, making it impossible to set a repatriation timeline.

The countries condemned the violence and human rights abuses by the Myanmar military and other armed groups, calling for an end to hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, and the release of those unjustly detained. 

They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting international efforts to ensure accountability for serious violations of international human rights law.

The statement emphasised support for durable solutions, including fostering Rohingya self-reliance and preparing for eventual repatriation, while noting the decline in humanitarian funding for the crisis. 

The countries also pledged continued support for local Bangladeshi communities in Cox’s Bazar, hosting the refugees.

Highlighting the need for meaningful Rohingya participation in decision-making, the statement stressed empowering the refugees to live safe, dignified, and productive lives in Bangladesh. 

The 11 nations reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to supporting both the Rohingya and Bangladesh in pursuing long-term, sustainable solutions to the crisis.