The world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, home to nearly a million Rohingya refugees, witnessed a historic moment today as United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Mohammad Younus arrived for a highly anticipated visit. The visit has ignited fresh hopes among the Rohingya community, who have endured years of displacement, uncertainty, and hardship.
As the distinguished leaders stepped into the sprawling camps, thousands of Rohingya refugees lined up along the dusty roads, eagerly watching and waiting for a glimmer of hope. Many expressed their expectations for positive outcomes from this visit, dreaming of a future where they could live with dignity, security, and basic human rights.
The Rohingya refugees, who fled persecution and violence in Myanmar, have been living in limbo for more than seven years. With restricted movement, limited access to education and employment, and dwindling humanitarian aid, their frustration has been growing. However, today’s visit by Mr. Guterres and Dr. Younus has rekindled hope that a long-overdue resolution to their crisis could be in sight.
“We have been suffering for years, but seeing the United Nations Secretary-General and the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh here gives us hope,” said Mohammad Harun, a Rohingya community leader in Kutupalong camp.
“We are expecting something good from this visit, and we dream that our voices will finally be heard at the highest levels.”
Another refugee, Fatima Begum, who has been living in the camp since 2017, echoed similar sentiments. “We want a better future for our children. They deserve an education, a safe home, and the chance to live like normal human beings. I pray that this visit will bring real change,” she said.
During their visit, Mr. Guterres and Dr. Younus are expected to meet with Rohingya leaders, aid organizations, and government officials to discuss the future of the refugees. One of the main topics on the agenda is the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of Rohingya to Myanmar, which has been stalled for years due to ongoing instability and lack of guarantees for their safety.
“We are committed to finding a sustainable solution for the Rohingya,” said Mr. Guterres in a brief statement upon arrival.
“Their plight is not forgotten, and the international community must work together to ensure their rights, security, and future.”
Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Dr. Mohammad Younus, also emphasized the country’s commitment to supporting the refugees but reiterated the need for greater global responsibility. “Bangladesh has shown immense generosity in sheltering the Rohingya, but this is not a burden that we can carry alone. We need international support and a concrete plan for repatriation,” he stated.
The visit of these high-profile leaders comes at a crucial time when funding shortages and shifting global priorities have put the Rohingya crisis at risk of being neglected. Many refugees hope that this visit will renew international attention and bring stronger diplomatic pressure on Myanmar to create conditions for their safe return.
As the day unfolds, the Rohingya refugees remain hopeful that this historic visit will mark the beginning of a new chapter in their struggle for justice, dignity, and a place to call home.
