FAQs on Bangladesh’s Involvement in Humanitarian Assistance to Rakhine State

Sourced from the Chief Adviser, Government of Bangladesh (GoB)

1. What is the current status of Bangladesh’s involvement in humanitarian assistance in Rakhine State?

Bangladesh became involved after learning about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Rakhine, where the UN predicted famine-like conditions. The government feared this could trigger a new wave of refugees. Bangladesh is already hosting over 1.2 million Rohingyas and cannot afford another influx. Due to conflict blocking other aid routes, Bangladesh emerged as the only viable option. The plan considered was that the UN would distribute aid within Rakhine, and Bangladesh would provide logistical support to move it across the border. No agreement has been reached yet, as it requires consent from all sides and certain basic conditions: unimpeded access for aid workers and recipients, no use of aid for military purposes, equal treatment of all communities, and a pause in armed activities.

2. What is the status of discussions with the Arakan Army? How is Bangladesh balancing between the Arakan Army and Myanmar’s ruling junta?

Bangladesh initiated informal contact with the Arakan Army after it gained control of areas near the border. This was necessary to protect Bangladesh’s border and maintain stability. Talks have focused on humanitarian aid, Rohingya repatriation, and the need for Rohingya inclusion in Rakhine’s governance and security systems. At the same time, Bangladesh continues communication with the Myanmar junta. The goal is to stay engaged with all key actors to work toward a sustainable solution to the Rohingya issue.

3. What conditions has Bangladesh set for agreeing to the UN’s aid proposal?

First, all parties involved must agree to the aid plan. The Arakan Army must allow full access for aid workers and beneficiaries, stop using aid for any military advantage, suspend armed activity, and show a genuine commitment to creating an inclusive system that involves Rohingyas. If these conditions are not met, it could be seen as an attempt to continue ethnic cleansing. Bangladesh is currently waiting for the Arakan Army’s official response.

4. What are the main security concerns in delivering humanitarian aid?

Providing aid in a conflict zone always carries serious risks. Aid workers and civilians face threats from active fighting, and there are concerns about landmines and IEDs in the area. These security risks need to be addressed before any aid operation begins.

5. What is the expected position of regional countries on UN humanitarian assistance to Rakhine?

Saving lives in a crisis is a shared responsibility. Regional and international actors must work together. For Bangladesh, the stability of Rakhine is key. Without it, there can be no progress toward repatriating the Rohingyas.

6. What is Bangladesh’s plan if more Rohingyas continue to flee into the country?

Bangladesh cannot handle another wave of refugees. The country already bears a heavy burden. A large number of Rohingyas fled during the intense fighting between the Arakan Army and Myanmar forces from 2023 to late 2024. Though fewer are arriving now, the trend continues. Bangladesh is coordinating with key actors to prevent further displacement. The government has clearly told the Arakan Army that further violence, discrimination, and displacement are unacceptable. Future contact with the AA depends on its actions and whether it respects international law and includes Rohingyas in all levels of governance.