ADVISORY COMMISSION ON RAKHINE STATE INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) Approximately 120,000 Muslims are confined to IDP camps throughout the state, a result of the violence in 2012 (a smaller number of Rakhines also became IDPs as a result of the violence). Efforts to facilitate the return or relocation of IDPs have shown little progress. In 2014, the former Government sought to address this issue through the development of the Rakhine State Action Plan, which was only implemented to a limited extent. In its interim report, the Commission encouraged the Government to develop a comprehensive strategy towards closing all IDP camps in Rakhine State – a strategy that should be developed through a consultation process with affected communities, contain clear timelines, and include plans for the provision of security and livelihood opportunities at the site of return/ relocation. In the interim report, the Commission also urged the Government to facilitate the return/relocation of three specific IDP communities. The Government is commended for acting swiftly on the recommendations. Yet, the outcome of the return/relocation process was mixed. While Rakhine IDPs from Ka Nyin Taw were successfully moved to an already identified relocation site, efforts to facilitate the return of Muslim households from Min That Phar village seem to have stalled, mainly due to resistance from Rakhine neighbours. Moreover, while the Commission recommended the return of displaced Kaman Muslim households in Ramree, the Government eventually facilitated their relocation to Yangon. Although the closure of the camp represents a positive step in itself, this process should not serve as a precedent for other camp closures in the future. Rather, it demonstrated the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy – as well as the need for a broad consultations process with affected communities. In the meantime, living conditions in the camps remain poor, with overcrowded shelters and inadequate access to services and livelihood opportunities. When shelters were constructed in 2012, they were built to last 2-3 years, and many are now in urgent need of repair or replacement. While IDPs wait for the opportunity to return or relocate, the Government – assisted by international partners – must ensure adequate living conditions in the camps. For this purpose, greater investments are needed. Recommendations: 24. The Commission reiterates that the Government of Myanmar should prepare a comprehensive strategy towards closing all IDP camps FINAL REPORT 35