Dhaka expresses ‘deep concern’ over deteriorating human rights situation in Myanmar

Secretary (Bilateral) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Md Nazrul Islam on Wednesday expressed “deep concern” over the deteriorating human rights situation in Myanmar, particularly the plight of the Rohingyas.

He specifically highlighted the “grave situation” in Rakhine State, including ongoing violence and forced displacement.

The Secretary (Bilateral) briefed UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Kelley E Currie, on Bangladesh’s continued humanitarian support for around 1.5 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas.

He reiterated that their early repatriation to their places of origin in Myanmar remains the only durable solution.

Dr Nazrul underscored the importance of creating conditions conducive to repatriation, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and mobilising sustained international support for both the Rohingyas and affected host communities.

During the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Secretary (Bilateral) congratulated her on assuming the important mandate and welcomed her to Bangladesh.

Special Rapporteur Currie thanked the Government of Bangladesh for accepting her request to visit the country.

She commended Bangladesh’s longstanding generosity and humanitarian efforts in hosting a large number of forcibly displaced Rohingyas, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Read More

Salahuddin for stronger international role in Rohingya repatriation

Acknowledging the considerable challenges faced by Bangladesh as a host country, Currie appreciated its continued commitment to providing humanitarian assistance despite resource constraints.

She also underscored the importance of sustained international attention to the plight of the Rohingyas and efforts to find a durable solution to the protracted crisis.

The Secretary assured the Special Rapporteur of Bangladesh’s full cooperation during her visit and its continued support for the discharge of her mandate.

Currie was appointed by the UN Human Rights Council in March 2026, succeeding Thomas H Andrews, who served as Special Rapporteur from 2020 to 2026. She officially assumed the mandate on 1 May 2026.

The UN Special Rapporteur is conducting a country visit to Bangladesh from 11 to 18 November.

During her visit, the Special Rapporteur will assess the impact of the deteriorating human rights situation in Myanmar on Bangladesh, with particular attention to developments in Rakhine State and the broader armed conflict, the situation of Rohingya refugees, and opportunities for future cooperation.

The Special Rapporteur will also meet civil society representatives, victims and survivors, among others. She will visit Dhaka, Cox’s Bazar and refugee camp sites in Cox’s Bazar District.

Currie has formally requested permission to conduct a country visit to Myanmar but was informed by the authorities there that they were not ready to accommodate such a visit.

The Special Rapporteur will present her next report to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2027.