Staff Reporter :
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern on Friday over the unbearable human costs faced by Rohingya refugees due to announced cuts in international financial assistance.
He called on the global community to demonstrate solidarity with the Rohingya people and the Bangladeshi host communities, urging them to take concrete actions to provide support.
“We are on the brink of a severe humanitarian crisis,” Guterres warned during a visit to Camp 20 Extension in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, where he spoke at an iftar event for the refugees.
“With the financial cuts now announced, we face the risk of having only 40 per cent of the resources available in 2025 compared to what we had in 2024. This would be a disaster,” he said.
He emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating that without sufficient resources, people will suffer, and lives will be lost. “The international community has a responsibility to invest in aid for those who have already endured so much,” he added.
Guterres made his visit to Cox’s Bazar during the holy month of Ramadan, highlighting his mission of solidarity with both the Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi communities that have generously hosted them.
“I am here to shine a spotlight on their plight but also their potential. Over a million Rohingya refugees are here; they are resilient and proud, and they need the world’s support,” he said.
The UN Secretary-General noted that UN agencies and numerous humanitarian organisations are facing significant funding cuts, which will directly affect the ability to provide essential services such as food, healthcare, and protection. He underscored that the entire refugee population relies on humanitarian aid.
“These budget reductions are not just numbers; they have severe human consequences,” Guterres said, adding that the ultimate solution lies in Myanmar.
“We will not give up until conditions are right for the voluntary, safe, and sustainable return of refugees.
Until then, I urge the international community to increase their support. Solidarity with the Rohingya refugees is needed now more than ever, as is solidarity with Bangladesh,” he stated.
Reflecting on the history of the Rohingya crisis, Guterres reminded the audience of the decades of persecution the refugees had endured, culminating in a mass exodus eight years ago following the massacres in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
He also noted the continued violations of human rights and anti-Muslim sentiment that have exacerbated the crisis.
“This is especially relevant as tomorrow marks the International Day to Combat Islamophobia,” Guterres said. “The Rohingya refugees fled here in search of protection, dignity, and safety for their families.
Many shared their harrowing stories of suffering in Myanmar and their perilous journey to safety here. They want to return to Myanmar – it is their homeland. The primary solution to this crisis is their safe, voluntary, and dignified return,” he continued.
Guterres also sent a clear message to all parties in Myanmar: “Exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians according to international humanitarian law, and avoid inciting further violence, so that democracy can take root.”
He concluded by stating that the situation in Myanmar, including in Rakhine State, remains dire. As long as the conflict and systematic persecution continue, the UN must remain committed to protecting those in need.
