In August 2017, a surge of violence and human rights abuses forced thousands of Rohingya from their homes in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Many endured grueling journeys through jungles and across the Bay of Bengal to reach safety in Bangladesh. Today, over 960,000 Rohingya refugees reside in Bangladesh, primarily in the Cox’s Bazar region, home to the world’s largest refugee camp. The Rohingya are often described as “the most persecuted minority in the world.”
Here’s What You Need to Know:
- Who are the Rohingya?
- How did the Rohingya refugee crisis begin?
- Where are the Rohingya seeking refuge?
- How does the monsoon season impact Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh?
- What is happening to Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh right now?
- How is Humanity Increased supporting Rohingya refugees?
Who are the Rohingya?
The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority group from predominantly Buddhist Myanmar. Despite living in Myanmar for generations, they have been denied citizenship since 1982, making them the world’s largest stateless population. As a result, Rohingya families are denied basic rights and protections, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and gender-based violence.
How Did the Rohingya Refugee Crisis Begin?
The Rohingya have faced decades of systematic persecution and violence. The crisis escalated in August 2017 when violence erupted in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, forcing over 742,000 people, including many children, to flee to Bangladesh. Villages were destroyed, families were torn apart, and countless human rights violations were reported.
Where Are the Rohingya Seeking Refuge?
Over a million Rohingya refugees have fled Myanmar in waves since the 1990s. Currently, more than 960,000 Rohingya refugees are in Bangladesh, with the majority in Kutupalong and Nayapara refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. These camps are some of the most densely populated in the world. More than half of the refugees are children, and women and girls constitute 51% of the population. This significant influx has put a strain on local resources and made support for host communities essential.
Since 2021, nearly 30,000 refugees have been relocated to Bhasan Char island by the Government of Bangladesh to alleviate congestion in the camps. Despite scaled-up services on the island, there are still substantial gaps in service delivery.
How Does the Monsoon Season Impact Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh?
The monsoon season, from June to October, brings heavy rains and strong winds, increasing the risk of floods and landslides. Many Rohingya live in makeshift shelters made of bamboo and tarpaulin, which are vulnerable to severe weather. The rainy season also raises the risk of waterborne diseases like hepatitis, malaria, and dengue, especially in overcrowded camps lacking proper sanitation.
What is Happening to Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh Right Now?
In May 2023, Cyclone Mocha caused widespread destruction in Bangladesh and Myanmar, impacting millions, including 930,000 Rohingya refugees. The ensuing monsoon season has hampered rebuilding efforts, with many shelters still unrepaired and thousands exposed to the elements. Humanity Increased, along with other organizations, is on the ground providing emergency relief, including shelter, clean water, food supplies, and health services.
How is Humanity Increased Supporting Rohingya Refugees?
Rohingya refugees face numerous challenges, including lack of legal status, limited livelihood opportunities, and restricted movement. Humanity Increased is dedicated to supporting these vulnerable populations by providing comprehensive aid that includes:
- Emergency Shelter and Housing: Building and repairing shelters to protect against harsh weather.
- Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities to prevent disease outbreaks.
- Food Security: Distributing food and nutritional support to prevent malnutrition, particularly among children and the elderly.
- Health and Medical Services: Offering medical care, vaccinations, and mental health support to address both immediate and long-term health needs.
- Education and Skills Development: Supporting education for children and providing skills training for adults to improve livelihood opportunities.
- Protection and Legal Assistance: Helping refugees with legal documentation and protection services to safeguard against exploitation and abuse.
How You Can Help
The Rohingya refugee crisis requires ongoing support. Contributions to Humanity Increased can make a significant difference. Here are ways you can help:
- Donate: Financial contributions are crucial for sustaining aid efforts. They help procure essential items, support local economies, and reduce logistical burdens.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support humanitarian projects, both locally and internationally.
- Raise Awareness: Share information about the Rohingya crisis to increase awareness and encourage broader support.
Conclusion
The Rohingya refugee crisis is one of the most pressing humanitarian issues today. Through the efforts of organizations like Humanity Increased and the support of individuals worldwide, we can provide the necessary aid and hope to those affected. Let us act with compassion and generosity to help the Rohingya refugees rebuild their lives and secure a better future. May our collective efforts bring relief and peace to these vulnerable communities.