Dhaka, Aug 22 (V7N) – UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, on Thursday to discuss the ongoing Rohingya crisis and regional human rights concerns.

Andrews commended Dr. Yunus’s leadership, noting that his prioritization of the Rohingya issue in the international arena has been “very important.” He recalled that an international conference on the Rohingya issue, initiated by the Chief Adviser, is scheduled to be held at the UN headquarters in New York on September 30. “Bangladesh is to be thanked for not only providing shelter and assistance to the Rohingya but also for keeping the hope of a long-term solution alive,” Andrews said.

The Chief Adviser, while expressing optimism that the upcoming UN conference would pave the way for a concrete resolution to the crisis, raised concerns over the recent reduction in international funding for the Rohingya in Bangladesh. He stressed that the funding cut is severely affecting essential services, including health and education, and urged Andrews to continue his efforts to secure adequate resources.

Andrews acknowledged Bangladesh’s constructive engagement with multiple parties to resolve the crisis but voiced disappointment over the failure of UN efforts to stabilize Rakhine State due to what he described as “malicious propaganda.” Despite this, he expressed hope that continued international and regional engagement could lead to a lasting solution. He also urged Bangladesh to sustain its leadership role in advocating for the Rohingya.

The UN envoy is currently visiting Bangladesh and will take part in a stakeholder dialogue on the Rohingya issue in Cox’s Bazar on August 25, which will be inaugurated by the Chief Adviser.

END/SMA/AJ