UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has called for urgent global action to address the plight of Rohingya refugees and other displaced minorities from Myanmar, warning that chronic underfunding and inaction risk worsening instability in the region.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Conference on Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar on Monday night, Grandi made these remarks.
He described Myanmar as a country “already dealing with a devastating humanitarian crisis” and still struggling in the aftermath of a recent earthquake.
“More than 5 million are displaced, of whom over 1.5 million have taken refuge in neighbouring countries,” Grandi told delegates.
“We need safe and unhindered access to people impacted by the fighting. Assurances have been given, but urgent and vital asks must be continuously conveyed by all.”
Focusing on the situation of the Rohingya, Grandi said they continue to face discrimination, restricted movement, arbitrary arrest, and denial of healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
He praised regional host countries, particularly Bangladesh, for sheltering nearly 1.2 million Rohingya refugees.
Since renewed fighting in Rakhine State in 2024, another 150,000 Rohingya have sought refuge in Bangladesh, according to UNHCR.
Grandi commended Bangladesh for “setting an example to the rest of the world” despite facing enormous social and economic pressures, but warned that humanitarian support for the camps remains “chronically underfunded.”
He cautioned that unless funding increases, life-saving services such as food assistance and cooking fuel may face further cuts.
“The prospects for funding next year are grim,” he said.
The UN refugee chief urged the international community to step up with financial support, resettlement opportunities, and education and labour pathways for refugees.
He stressed that the ultimate solution lies in Myanmar itself, calling on countries with influence in the region to engage with both the military authorities and the Arakan Army to create conditions for the voluntary, safe, and sustainable return of Rohingya.
UNHCR pledged to continue working with states, regional bodies, and refugee-led groups to protect displaced populations and seek durable solutions.