UN Adjusts Food Aid for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Photo: Collected

Arakan Now | 25 March 2026

The United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) is changing its food assistance approach for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh starting April, aiming to meet the basic food needs of every household.

Funding pressures are rising as the crisis enters its ninth year. Over 1 million Rohingya fled military crackdowns in Myanmar in 2017 and now live in crowded camps with limited access to jobs or education.

Under the new system, monthly food support will be distributed based on household food insecurity levels identified in a 2025 survey. The program classifies households as “extremely insecure,” “highly insecure,” or “food insecure,” with corresponding monthly aid of $12, $10, and $7 in Cox’s Bazar. On Bhasan Char island, where prices are higher, payments will be $13, $11, and $8.

Vulnerable households, including those led by children, the elderly, women, or disabled persons, will receive an extra $3 per person in fresh food vouchers to improve diet diversity.

The WFP said this needs-based approach ensures equitable distribution and focuses on the most vulnerable, while continuing to support nearly 1.2 million refugees, including around 150,000 new arrivals since 2024.

Officials warn that international support is critical to maintain food aid and basic services for Rohingya refugees and vulnerable host communities.