Tarique Rahman urges stronger diplomatic push for Rohingya repatriation

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called on Bangladesh's interim government to intensify diplomatic efforts and increase international pressure on Myanmar for the safe, dignified, and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya refugees.

In a statement posted on Facebook marking "World Refugee Day" on Friday (June 20), Tarique described the Rohingya crisis as one of the world’s gravest humanitarian emergencies and stressed the urgency of a swift resolution.

"We urge the interim government to step up its diplomatic initiatives and build sustained pressure on Myanmar to ensure a just and voluntary return of the Rohingya to their homeland," he said.

Tarique Rahman also appealed to the international community to hold all responsible parties accountable, emphasizing that the crisis remains far from resolved despite years of global attention.

Bangladesh is currently hosting more than 1.4 million Rohingya refugees in camps in Cox’s Bazar after they fled brutal military crackdowns in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. While praising Bangladesh’s humanitarian commitment, Tarique warned that the prolonged crisis is placing an increasingly destabilizing burden on the country.

"For Bangladesh, this refugee crisis is not just a global issue—it's a daily, lived reality," he said. "What began as an emergency response has evolved into a long-term humanitarian and political challenge."

He called for collective international action to establish a peaceful and just system for refugee repatriation, while expressing solidarity with displaced populations around the world.

World Refugee Day, observed annually on June 20, is dedicated to honoring the strength, courage, and resilience of refugees and raising awareness about the global refugee crisis.