Nobel laureate and prominent economist Professor Muhammad Yunus has reiterated his call for urgent international intervention to address the systematic racial discrimination and humanitarian crisis affecting the Rohingya community.
On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Prof. Yunus emphasized that the Rohingya have been subjected to decades of ethnic persecution, statelessness, and forced displacement, urging world leaders to take concrete steps towards a permanent and dignified solution to their plight.
A Call for Justice and Repatriation
Speaking on the issue, Prof. Yunus highlighted that since 2017, Bangladesh has sheltered over a million Rohingya refugees who fled brutal military crackdowns in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. He stressed that their safe and voluntary return to Myanmar remains the only sustainable solution to the crisis and called for the global community’s active engagement in facilitating their repatriation.
“The Rohingya are victims of racial discrimination, and their suffering must end. We cannot allow this crisis to persist indefinitely. The international community has a moral obligation to ensure justice for the Rohingya and work towards a lasting resolution,” said Prof. Yunus.
While Bangladesh has played a crucial humanitarian role in hosting the refugees, Prof. Yunus warned that the strain on resources and the deteriorating security situation in the Rohingya camps pose significant challenges. The worsening conditions underscore the urgent need for international cooperation to provide both immediate humanitarian assistance and a long-term political resolution to the crisis.
Three Key Proposals for Resolving the Rohingya Crisis
Prof. Yunus’s call for action aligns with his previous proposals presented during a high-level discussion at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2024. He outlined three critical steps that the international community must take to address the crisis:
- A Global Conference with All Stakeholders
Prof. Yunus urged the United Nations Secretary-General to convene a high-level conference involving all key parties, including Myanmar, Bangladesh, ASEAN countries, the UN, humanitarian organizations, and Rohingya representatives. The aim of such a conference would be to review the crisis comprehensively and explore innovative approaches to securing a peaceful resolution.
“We need a forum where all stakeholders can come together and discuss practical steps for repatriation, accountability, and long-term integration. Without a collective effort, this crisis will only worsen,” he emphasized.
- Strengthening the Joint Response Plan (JRP)
The Joint Response Plan (JRP), coordinated by the UN and Bangladesh, is the primary mechanism for managing humanitarian aid for the Rohingya. However, Prof. Yunus pointed out that funding has been steadily declining, leading to severe cuts in essential services such as food, healthcare, education, and security. He called for renewed international commitment to revitalize the JRP and ensure adequate resources for both refugees and host communities.
- Support for Justice and Accountability Measures
Prof. Yunus also emphasized the importance of accountability for the crimes committed against the Rohingya. He urged governments to support international legal mechanisms investigating Myanmar’s military for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. This includes backing cases at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to ensure perpetrators are held responsible.
“Justice for the Rohingya is essential for peace in the region. Without accountability, history will repeat itself, and the Rohingya will continue to suffer from oppression and violence,” he warned.
Global Response and Ongoing Challenges
Prof. Yunus’s call for action comes at a time when international funding for Rohingya refugees is declining and repatriation efforts remain stalled due to instability in Myanmar. While Bangladesh has provided temporary shelter, the prolonged displacement of the Rohingya is creating tensions between host communities and refugees.
In response to growing concerns, the United States recently announced nearly $199 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya in Bangladesh and neighboring countries. The funding will support emergency aid, food security, healthcare, and disaster preparedness programs. However, experts warn that financial aid alone is not a long-term solution, and greater diplomatic efforts are needed to facilitate safe repatriation and reintegration in Myanmar.
Rohingya Leaders Demand More Action
Meanwhile, Rohingya community leaders have echoed Prof. Yunus’s concerns, urging stronger international intervention. Many fear that without sustained pressure on Myanmar’s military regime, repatriation will remain an empty promise.
“We want to return home, but only if our rights are guaranteed. We need citizenship, safety, and the ability to live with dignity. The world must act now,” said a Rohingya representative from the camps in Cox’s Bazar.
The situation remains fragile, with tensions escalating in Myanmar and increasing reports of conflicts between the military and ethnic armed groups. Observers note that unless there is a significant political shift within Myanmar, forced repatriation could lead to further human rights violations.
Conclusion: The Need for Global Unity
Prof. Yunus’s renewed advocacy serves as a critical reminder of the global responsibility to address the Rohingya crisis. While Bangladesh, humanitarian agencies, and donors continue to provide support, the ultimate solution lies in Myanmar recognizing the Rohingya as rightful citizens and ensuring their safe return.
As the crisis enters its eighth year since the mass exodus in 2017, the international community faces a crucial test: Will it stand by and let history repeat itself, or will it take decisive action to end one of the world’s most prolonged cases of racial persecution?
