A resolution presented by the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) and the European Union on the protection of the Rohingya has been adopted unanimously by the United Nations – for the first time since the crisis began in 2017.  

Observers say the UN recognition is a reflection of the international community's strong commitment to resolving the crisis. The resolution was supported and co-sponsored by a large number of countries in various geographical regions including the US, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Japan and South Korea.  

The resolution primarily focuses on the human rights situation in Myanmar's Rohingya Muslim and other minority communities as well as the context in which the country declared a state of Emergency on February 1. It called on Myanmar to find out the root causes of the Rohingya problem, fulfill the obligations of the agreement signed with Bangladesh, and extend full cooperation to all rights organizations including the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy to Myanmar. Presently, 11 lakh Rohingyas are sheltered in Bangladesh.  

World not doing much 

The world community has been expressing solidarity with Bangladesh for sheltering Rohingyas for humanitarian reasons seeking their repatriation. Myanmar authorities have agreed to repatriate Rohingya in the face of international pressure. Bangladesh has raised the issue in various forums; although everyone listens, no response or action is seen. The extra responsibility of this huge number of people is definitely a big burden for Bangladesh.  

The frustration of the Rohingya is intensifying due to lack of progress on repatriation, creating security concerns and instability in the region. There have been killings in Rohingya camps. Thefts and robberies are on the rise. We hope this crisis will be resolved soon. A political solution to the Rohingya issue is essential for lasting peace, stability and security. Bangladesh’s ties with Myanmar are deteriorating due to non-repatriation.  

The locals are suffering from various problems due to Rohingyas. The only way to resolve the crisis is to send the Rohingya back to Myanmar as soon as possible. Unfortunately, this is not happening. Only pressure from the international community can force Myanmar to repatriate the Rohingyas.  

(The writer is a freelance writer who did her Master's in International Relations from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The views expressed are personal. She can be reached at jubedachowdhury103@gmail.com)