An Agenda for a Dignified and Sustainable Rohingya Refugee Response in Bangladesh
Chapter 6: The Way Forward: Key Recommendations
While it is true that the long-term solution of the Rohingya crisis lies in Myanmar, it must also be
acknowledged that safe, dignified and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar is not
feasible in the short- term. Therefore, appropriate plans need to be developed to ensure that stateless
Rohingya refugees can live a life of dignity and hope in countries of asylum, including Bangladesh,
while also preparing them for achieving sustainable solutions in the longer term.
Together with humanitarian partners, the Government of Bangladesh should pursue sustainable plans
taking into account the needs of both refugees and host communities and provide more opportunities
for affected communities to participate in planning of the response, creating trust and hope and a
sense of agency. A dignified and sustainable strategy for the Rohingya refugee response in line with a
whole-of-society approach will need stronger cooperation and coordination among stakeholders as
follows:
1. Refugee Protection
a. The Government of Bangladesh should undertake an urgent review of the 2013
National Strategy on Myanmar Refugees and Undocumented Myanmar Nationals.
Current government policy is not fit- for- purpose in light of the large movement of hundreds
of thousands of stateless Rohingya refugees in 2017, and the recent military coup in Myanmar.
A clear policy framework should be developed for the Rohingya refugee response that is Stateowned, and consistent with existing domestic human rights obligations and humanitarian
principles, and that:
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Establishes a clear, transparent and predictable framework of cooperation for the
Rohingya refugee response that is designed to include affected communities.
Ensures that people in need of protection are not pushed-back at the borders and can
access protection and humanitarian assistance.
Acknowledges the Rohingya identity and their Myanmar nationality; recognising the fact
that the Rohingya are refugees and their experiences of persistent persecution and
marginalisation in Myanmar, in line with Bangladesh’s obligations under international law.
Act for Peace / May 2021