At the conclusion of a two-day visit to the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Global Goodwill Ambassador Dimash Qudaibergen urged the international community to step up and sustain support for more than one million Rohingya refugees living in one of the world’s largest refugee settlements.
Nearly nine years on, Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar remain in a highly vulnerable situation, with many still entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance. At the same time, host communities and local services are facing mounting pressure amid ongoing funding shortfalls.
“The world must not forget the humanitarian needs of the Rohingya people. Behind every number is a story of resilience, hope, and survival,” said Dimash Qudaibergen. “The strength of the people I met is truly inspiring, and I am deeply honoured to meet the communities and humanitarian teams working every day to protect human dignity.”
During his visit from May 18 to 19, 2026, Dimash Qudaibergen met with Rohingya refugee families, youth volunteers, and frontline humanitarian workers to observe firsthand the daily challenges faced by displaced communities and the ongoing humanitarian response led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in coordination with the Government of Bangladesh, United Nations agencies, and other humanitarian partners.
He underscored the urgent need for sustained international solidarity, calling for continued humanitarian support, including access to shelter, healthcare, cleaner cooking energy, water, sanitation and hygiene services, protection, and skills development opportunities.
Dimash also praised the generosity and resilience of Bangladeshi host communities, noting their continued support for the Rohingya population despite significant local pressures.
During the visit, Dimash traveled across several camps to learn about IOM’s multisectoral work. He met refugees, community volunteers, and humanitarian staff delivering essential services aimed at reducing protection risks and improving living conditions for families in protracted displacement.
At the Rohingya Cultural Memory Centre, Dimash engaged with community-led initiatives using art and storytelling to strengthen wellbeing and preserve collective identity. He also observed how site management and service delivery systems help families safely access assistance, including emergency preparedness measures for fires, monsoon rains, and cyclones.
IOM teams also showcased how clean energy cooking solutions are helping reduce health risks and environmental degradation, while shelter and essential item support is improving safety during extreme weather conditions. At a primary healthcare facility, Dimash observed the delivery of essential services, including outpatient care, immunization, and mental health support, provided through coordinated referral systems.
As humanitarian needs remain high and funding gaps continue to widen, the IOM has urged the international community to sustain and scale up support for the Rohingya response to ensure that vulnerable communities are not left behind.
As a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Dimash Qudaibergen continues to use his global platform to amplify humanitarian messages and promote compassion and action. His visit aims to raise international awareness and reaffirm global commitment to people affected by crisis and displacement.
