International donors said they are deeply concerned by the worsening situation in Rakhine State of Myanmar and its impact across the border.
“Today we reiterate the importance of protecting all civilians,” the donors from the international community, including the United States, European Union and other countries, said in a joint media release marking World Refugee Day on Thursday.
They said they still believe that safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable repatriation will be possible for Rohingya refugees in the long-term. But observing the escalating conflict and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Myanmar they fear that this is unlikely in the near future.
They stand in solidarity with the more than 120 million people that is 1 in 69, worldwide who are forcibly displaced due to conflict, violence, and persecution. Among these individuals are over 1 million Rohingyas, who fled from their homes in Myanmar and sought refuge in Bangladesh, the media release reads.
“We appreciate the Government of Bangladesh for continuing to host the Rohingya in their time of need. We also continue to honour the incredible resilience and strength of spirit of the Rohingya people in adversity,” they said through the media release.
The donor countries said they all continue to make dedicated efforts to provide essential services for Rohingya refugees, and Bangladesh’s host communities.