The Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh may be able to celebrate the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr in their homeland, expressed Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus during his visit to the Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar on Friday (March 14).
Dr. Yunus emphasized the need for a global effort—if necessary, even a struggle—to ensure the repatriation of the forcibly displaced Rohingya population. “During Eid, people visit the graves of their loved ones, but the Rohingyas don’t even have that opportunity,” he remarked.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also stressed the importance of Rohingya repatriation, reaffirming that Myanmar remains their rightful home.
However, the ground reality presents challenges. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced a cut in food aid for the Rohingyas starting in April, raising concerns among the refugee community. As a result, many Rohingyas are now expressing a stronger desire to return home.
In this scenario, a coordinated international effort is crucial to ensure their safe and dignified repatriation. To turn the Chief Advisor’s optimism into reality, effective dialogue with the Myanmar government and strong international backing will be essential.
The key question remains: How successful will these efforts be, and when will the Rohingyas finally return to rebuild their lives in their own land?
By Rajin Saleh
Photo: Hussain Shetu
