UN expert underscores importance of human rights for Rohingya

Bangladesh, Education, Help Refugees, Human Rights, Myanmar, Refugees Issues, Religious Rights

“Bangladesh saved untold numbers of lives when it opened its arms and hearts to Rohingya people who survived these most unspeakable of horrors inflicted on them by the Myanmar military”, said Tom Andrews, Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar at the end of his first official visit to the Bangladesh.

“All who value human rights owe Bangladesh a debt of gratitude”, he added, acknowledging that the responsible to resolve the emergency rests upon Myanmar.

“I will do everything in my capacity to push for a stronger, more coordinated international response to this crisis, including the imposition of pressure on the Myanmar military and for concrete measures to hold the military junta fully accountable for this crisis”, promised the UN expert.

ALSO READ THIS: ‘TELLING OUR OWN STORIES’: ROHINGYA LIVES, THROUGH A CAMERA LENS

Desire to return home

During his mission, the Special Rapporteur met with refugees in Cox’s Bazar as well as those who were relocated to Bhasan Char Island.

“Nearly every Rohingya person I spoke with on this mission…want[ed] to return home as soon as they can do so voluntarily, safely, sustainably, and with dignity”, he said, adding that we must ensure their safe and voluntary return to Myanmar.

Leading dignified lives

Mr. Andrews offered a number of recommendations from his mission, notably that the Rohingya community must be provided with security, educational opportunity, access to health care, and the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities – especially in Bashan Char.