Rights of Rohingya’s Refugee
Who are the Rohingya?
The Rohingya are a predominantly Muslim ethnic minority from Rakhine State, Myanmar.
They have faced decades of systematic discrimination, statelessness, and violence, including ethnic cleansing and mass atrocities since 2017.
As a result, hundreds of thousands have fled to neighboring countries, especially Bangladesh, seeking refuge.
Key Rights of Rohingya Refugees
According to international human rights law and refugee protection frameworks, Rohingya refugees are entitled to:
1. Right to Seek Asylum and Protection from Refoulement
Under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, refugees have the right to seek asylum and should not be forcibly returned to a country where they face persecution (principle of non-refoulement).
Rohingya must not be sent back to Myanmar as long as their safety cannot be guaranteed.
2. Right to Life, Safety, and Security
Refugees have the right to live free from violence, arbitrary arrest, and torture.
Host countries and international agencies must protect Rohingya refugees from exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.
3. Right to Basic Necessities and Services
Access to adequate food, clean water, shelter, and medical care.
Access to education, including for children and youth.
Access to livelihood opportunities, though this remains limited in many refugee camps.
4. Right to Documentation and Legal Recognition
Refugees have the right to identity documents, which are essential to access services, travel, and legal protections.
The Rohingya often face statelessness, lacking official nationality and identity, complicating their legal status.
5. Right to Freedom of Movement
Refugees should have freedom of movement within host countries, although many Rohingya remain confined in camps with restrictions.
6. Right to Family Unity
Refugees have the right to keep families together and be protected from forced separation.
Challenges Faced by Rohingya Refugees:
Statelessness: Myanmar has denied Rohingya citizenship since 1982, making them stateless.
Host Country Restrictions: In Bangladesh and other countries, Rohingya face restrictions on movement, work, and access to services.
Poor Living Conditions: Overcrowded camps, limited resources, and risks from natural disasters.
Limited Durable Solutions: Few pathways to resettlement or citizenship in host countries.
Role of International Community:
UN agencies like UNHCR and UNICEF provide humanitarian aid and protection.
Calls for safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation to Myanmar only when conditions are secure and inclusive.
Pressure on Myanmar to end persecution and grant citizenship rights.
Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
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