3-day International Conference on Rohingya crisis begins in Cox’s Bazar

A three-day international conference aimed at finding sustainable solutions to the protracted Rohingya crisis began on Sunday in Cox’s Bazar, with participation from representatives of 40 countries.

Despite eight years passing since the mass influx of Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh, a viable resolution to the humanitarian crisis remains elusive. With nearly 1.3 million Rohingyas currently sheltered in Bangladesh, the conference seeks to foster international cooperation on repatriation, funding, and long-term strategies.

The opening session of the conference is scheduled to begin at 4 PM at Hotel Bay Watch in Inani, Ukhiya, approximately 28 kilometers from the main town of Cox’s Bazar.

Titled "Takeaway to the High-Level Conference on the Rohingya Situation," the stakeholder dialogue brings together key government figures, including National Security Adviser and High Representative on Rohingya Affairs Dr. Khaliqul Rahman, Foreign Affairs Adviser Tawhid Hossain, and other senior officials.

Jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the High Representative on Rohingya Affairs, the event will feature five dedicated sessions over three days.

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus is expected to arrive in Cox’s Bazar on Monday morning to attend the main session as the chief guest.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this conference serves as a preparatory platform for the upcoming High-Level Conference on the Rohingya Crisis scheduled for September 30 at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

A recent ministry statement noted that the conference will address issues including dignified repatriation, sustainable solutions, international funding, and the current situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Foreign diplomats, subject-matter experts, and Rohingya representatives are among the key participants.

Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mohammad Mizanur Rahman highlighted the challenge of presenting the Rohingya crisis on global platforms and emphasized the significance of allowing Rohingyas to voice their concerns directly at the event.

In light of Dr. Yunus’s visit and the heightened international focus, security measures across Cox’s Bazar have been significantly reinforced.