Unsafe conditions at Rohingya camps cannot be the norm

Dhaka Tribune
Tribune Editorial
Publish : 22 Dec 2023

The news of two Rohingya men being killed in two separate camps in Cox's Bazar tells us that when it comes to ensuring safety at these camps, we still have much more work to do. We continue to see repeated incidents of violence in the Rohingya camps, and suffice to say, more needs to be done to ensure that these are kept to a minimum.

While there can be no questioning Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts taken so far, sustained safety measures are and have been crucial to address the challenges faced by the Rohingya community. To that end, it is imperative to enhance security measures; the vulnerable situation of the Rohingya, coupled with the overcrowded living conditions, has meant that the camps have been susceptible to various risks. Strengthening security infrastructure, increasing the presence of law enforcement, and implementing robust monitoring mechanisms are essential steps to create a safer environment for the refugees.

However, efforts should be intensified to address the root cause of the crisis - the need for repatriation. While providing temporary refuge,the only sustainable solution lies in facilitating the safe and voluntary return of the Rohingya.

As such, the international community must continue to exert pressure on Myanmar, something that they have repeatedly failed to do. 

 
While safety of Rohingya camps in Bangladesh should be a top priority, and sustained efforts must be made to continue to create an environment that promotes the well-being of the refugees, ultimately, repatriation must be pursued vigorously to ensure the lasting solution to this humanitarian crisis.

Only through a combination of enhanced safety measures and a commitment to repatriation can we work towards a future where the Rohingya can rebuild their lives with dignity and security.

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