The BRICS Times
Bangladesh’s Mohammad Yunus urged the UN General Assembly to demand justice for Rohingyas. He emphasized ending discriminatory policies and finding a political solution for Rohingyas to enjoy equal rights and fully integrate into society.
Bangladesh’s chief advisor, Mohammad Yunus, emerged as a strong supporter of the Rohingyas during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Previously silent on rising violence against minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s administration changes, Yunus now advocates securing justice for Myanmar’s marginalized communities.
Speaking at the UN, Yunus stressed that the marginalization of Rohingyas cannot continue. He stated, “The discriminatory policies and actions that have caused this situation today can be addressed, and the situation can be improved.” Yunus insisted that waiting for a complete national political solution is not necessary to start corrective measures.
Addressing Rakhine Issues
Yunus called for a political solution to end ongoing violence and challenges in Myanmar’s Rakhine state. He highlighted that any resolution must include participation from all ethnic groups in the region to ensure Rohingyas gain equal rights and citizenship, fully integrating into society.
Millions of Rohingyas fled to Bangladesh following violence in Rakhine. Conditions in the state have worsened since 2017, with ongoing clashes between ethnic groups and Myanmar’s junta forces.
Myanmar Conflict Concerns the Entire Region
Yunus described the Myanmar conflict as alarming for the entire region. He noted that returning home is becoming increasingly difficult for Rohingyas who have sought refuge in Bangladesh. Even after eight years, the Rohingya crisis shows no signs of resolution.
He further stated that Bangladesh continues to be compelled to provide shelter to Rohingyas fleeing Myanmar. The persecution of Rohingyas persists, primarily fueled by politics surrounding cultural identity in Rakhine.
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Rohingyas in Bangladesh
Currently, nearly 1 million Rohingya refugees reside in Bangladesh. According to UNHCR data, most are in Cox’s Bazar camps, with around 35,000 living on Bhasan Char island. Since 2017, the majority of Rohingyas fleeing Myanmar have sought refuge in Bangladesh. In 2025, increasing conflict in Myanmar brought an additional 150,000 refugees, keeping the total near one million.
