Rohingya refugees protest dire conditions in Bangladesh camps

Thousands of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh staged a protest on Tuesday, marking nine years since a military crackdown forced them from Myanmar. Over 1.2 million Rohingya, mostly fleeing the brutal 2017 crackdown, reside in about 30 overcrowded camps in Cox's Bazar, the world's largest refugee settlement. The United Council of Rohingya (UCR) organized the rally to remember atrocities and highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Protesters carried placards demanding justice and a safe home.

Sayed Ullah, UCR president, expressed desperation for return, stating, "We can't keep waiting for the international community to facilitate our return, we will do whatever it takes to ensure our safe return home." Sabikunnahar, 32, who fled in 2017, wept, recounting beheadings, home invasions, and forced eviction. Children, over half the camp population, grow up in exile, facing worsening hunger and uncertainty.

Conditions have worsened due to funding cuts and reduced food rations. Golam Mostofa, Save the Children director, noted that "no hope" exists for a safe return to Myanmar, as the country faces escalating conflict and aid blockades. Bangladesh authorities, already stretched, call for Rohingya repatriation. However, diplomatic missions in Bangladesh state that Myanmar's conditions do not permit safe return.