Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presented a seven-point proposal for a sustainable resolution to the Rohingya crisis during the opening session of a high-level conference at the United Nations Headquarters on Tuesday(September 30). He stressed that the solution lies within Myanmar and called for immediate international action to facilitate the safe and dignified repatriation of the displaced population.
Addressing the High-Level Conference on the Situation of the Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar, Professor Yunus highlighted the dire circumstances eight years after the genocide began. He pointed to dwindling international funds and a lack of concrete initiatives to end the crisis.
"The Rohingya crisis originated in Myanmar so its solution lies there," Professor Yunus stated. "The international community must put effective pressure on Myanmar and the Arakan Army to immediately stop persecution of the Rohingya, and start working for their expeditious repatriation to Rakhine. It is the only solution of the crisis."
He underscored the urgency, noting that as financial support declines, beginning the repatriation process is the "only peaceful option," which would require fewer resources than continued international protection. "The Rohingya have consistently pronounced their desire to go back home," he added.
Professor Yunus also detailed the immense burden placed on Bangladesh, describing the nation as a "victim of the crisis." He lamented the "huge financial, social and environmental costs" and the threat of criminal activities, including narco-trafficking through Rakhine, which he said threatens Bangladesh's social fabric.
Towards a sustainable resolution, Professor Yunus proposed the following seven actions for the international community:
- Devise a practical roadmap for safe and dignified repatriation with reasonable stabilization of Rakhine.
- Exert effective pressure on Myanmar and the Arakan Army to end violence and begin repatriation, starting with recent arrivals and the internally displaced.
- Mobilize international support to stabilize Rakhine, including placing an international civilian presence to monitor the situation.
- Support confidence-building measures for the sustainable integration of Rohingya in Rakhine society and governance.
- Mobilize donors to fully fund the Joint Response Plan.
- Pursue accountability and restorative justice for the atrocities committed.
- Dismantle the narco-economy and combat transboundary crimes.
"The world cannot keep the Rohingya waiting any longer from returning home," Professor Yunus concluded. "Today, let us pledge to act together to resolve the crisis once and for all. Bangladesh stands ready to extend its full cooperation to this end."
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