Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh Face Worsening Food Crisis as Ration Cuts Partially Reversed

The circumstances for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh have deteriorated significantly, with 90% struggling to access an adequate diet and 15% of children suffering from malnutrition, the highest rate ever recorded in the camps. The crisis has been exacerbated by a 30% reduction in food rations last year due to a funding shortfall faced by the World Food Programme (WFP).

While the WFP has partially reversed the ration cuts thanks to support from the EU and other donors, the rations still fall short of meeting the refugees' minimum energy and nutritional requirements. The Rohingya remain heavily reliant on humanitarian aid as the crisis approaches its 8th year since over 700,000 fled a brutal military crackdown in Myanmar in 2017.

Why this matters: The deteriorating food situation threatens to further destabilize the already precarious conditions in the world's largest refugee settlement. It underscores the urgent need for sustained international support and a long-term solution to the Rohingya crisis, including safe repatriation to Myanmar.

The 2024 Joint Response Plan for the Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis, launched in March, seeks $852.4 million to support 1.35 million vulnerable Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh. However, the response remains underfunded, with the WFP reporting net funding requirements of $55.9 million for April to September 2024.

Restrictions on movement within the camps have severely impacted Rohingya's access to education and basic services. Security issues, including drug and human trafficking, also remain major problems, with criminal elements exploiting the restricted movement of refugees.

Concerns are rising over the increasing number of Rohingya attempting dangerous boat journeys in search of a better life, with at least 569 losing their lives in 2023. Refugee leaders have called for additional assistance, food support, and other basic needs, emphasizing that those in the camps are fully dependent on aid for survival.

Bangladesh has urged the visiting US delegation to provide new financial assistance to the Rohingya refugees affected by the recent UN food ration cuts. Prime Minister's Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah warned that the delay in repatriation could pose a threat to regional security, as growing frustration among the Rohingya may lead them to engage in illegal activities.

"The existing frustration among the Rohingyas may lead them to engage in illegal activities, which may create a threat to regional security," Miah said during a meeting with foreign diplomats and representatives from international agencies.

Despite ongoing efforts, including a case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice, the prospects for a safe and dignified return of the Rohingya to their homeland remain uncertain. As the humanitarian crisis persists, the international community is being called upon to play a significant role in finding a quick and permanent resolution to the global Rohingya crisis while ensuring adequate support for the refugees in Bangladesh.

Key Takeaways

• 90% of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh struggle to access adequate diet, 15% of children malnourished
• Funding shortfall led to 30% reduction in food rations, partially reversed but still below minimum requirements
• Restricted movement impacts Rohingya's access to education and basic services, security issues persist
• Growing frustration may lead Rohingya to engage in illegal activities, posing regional security threat
• Prospects for safe Rohingya repatriation remain uncertain, international support is crucial for resolution