As the world marks World Refugee Day on June 20, nearly 12 lakh Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh continue to face an uncertain future, nearly nine years after fleeing violence in Myanmar. While they have found safety in Cox’s Bazar, a lasting solution to their displacement remains out of reach.
The Rohingya crisis escalated on August 25, 2017, when a military crackdown in Myanmar’s Rakhine State forced more than 7 lakh people to cross into Bangladesh. Combined with earlier arrivals, the Rohingya population in Bangladesh now stands at approximately 11.97 lakh. More than 11.60 lakh live in 33 refugee camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf, while around 34,000 reside on Bhasan char island.
Refugee leaders say conditions remain difficult despite ongoing humanitarian assistance. Mohammad Yunus, a community leader in Kutupalong Camp-4, said the Rohingyas are grateful for the support provided by Bangladesh and international agencies, but emphasized that camp life is not a permanent solution. He called for a safe return to Myanmar with citizenship rights, security, and dignity.
Muhammad Zubair, Chairman of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPHR), expressed concern over the future of Rohingya children. He noted that educational opportunities, employment prospects, and freedom of movement remain limited, while many young people have never seen their homeland.
The Kutupalong-Balukhali settlement is widely recognized as the world’s largest refugee camp. Overcrowded conditions, fragile shelters made of bamboo and tarpaulin, and dependence on humanitarian aid continue to define daily life. Funding shortages have emerged as a growing concern, with the United Nations and its partners seeking $710.5 million in 2026 to meet the needs of both refugees and host communities.
Children make up more than half of the refugee population, raising fears of a “lost generation” due to restricted educational opportunities. Human rights groups warn that prolonged uncertainty increases risks such as child labor, early marriage, and human trafficking.
Security challenges also persist, including incidents of drug trafficking, extortion, and organized crime. Many refugees, frustrated by limited opportunities, continue to undertake dangerous sea journeys toward Malaysia and other countries. According to UN data, nearly 900 Rohingyas were reported dead or missing during maritime crossings in 2025.
Despite some progress in healthcare, including the opening of a modern maternal health facility in Kutupalong, major challenges remain. Above all, hopes for repatriation remain stalled due to ongoing conflict, insecurity, and unresolved citizenship issues in Myanmar, leaving one of the world’s largest refugee crises without a clear end in sight.