This week, thousands of Rohingya refugees rallied in camps across Bangladesh. They marked the seventh anniversary of the military crackdown that forced them to flee Myanmar. The refugees demanded an end to violence and a safe return to their homeland. Over a million currently live in overcrowded, unsanitary camps in southern Bangladesh. Their chances of returning to Myanmar are slim. In recent weeks, thousands more have fled Myanmar’s Rakhine state due to escalating conflict.
The conflict is between the junta’s troops and the Arakan Army. This ethnic militia draws support from the Buddhist majority. The ongoing violence has worsened the situation, forcing them to continue seeking refuge in Bangladesh.
In Cox’s Bazar, where many have taken shelter, refugees of all ages joined the anniversary rally. They waved placards, chanted slogans, and wore ribbons inscribed with “Rohingya Genocide Remembrance.” The atmosphere was emotional as refugees expressed their grief and frustration. Hafizur Rahman, a refugee, voiced their feelings: “Enough is enough. Stop violence and attacks on the Rohingya community.”
The recent attacks are the worst violence against the Rohingya since 2017. That year, a brutal campaign by the Myanmar military forced more than 73,000 Rohingya to flee into Bangladesh. As the situation deteriorates, Bangladesh insists that repatriation is the only solution. However, local communities are becoming increasingly hostile. This hostility is growing as international funding for the Rohingya dwindles.
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