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DHAKA, Aug 25, 2025 (BSS): Diplomatic missions in Dhaka today underscored the need for long-term durable solutions to the Rohingya crisis, calling for meaningful engagement and inclusive representation of Rohingyas in decision-making while they remain in Bangladesh.

"After eight years, the international community stands steadfast with the Rohingya and Bangladesh, committed to seeking long-term durable solutions to the crisis and addressing its root causes," the missions said in a joint statement issued on the eighth anniversary of the mass exodus.

The statement, titled 'Rohingya crisis - eight years on', was jointly issued by High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh, Australian High Commission, British High Commission, Embassy of Denmark in Bangladesh, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka, Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, Ambasciata d'Italia a Dhaka, Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, Embassy of Finland in New Delhi and Suomen suurl„hetyst” New Delhi. 

Recognition of resilience and Bangladesh's role

Reflecting on the Myanmar military's actions that forced the displacement, the missions noted that over 1.3 million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, with new arrivals still seeking refuge in the camps.

"We acknowledge the resilience of Rohingya in the face of their ongoing hardship and displacement, amid the current deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Rakhine State," the joint statement said.

The envoys expressed "deep appreciation for the ongoing generosity of the interim government and the people of Bangladesh, who are providing shelter and safety to the Rohingya, including new arrivals, hosting them and supporting the provision of life-saving humanitarian assistance."

Obstacles to repatriation

The statement reaffirmed that the international community remains committed to repatriation, but cautioned: "However, cross-border displacement continues, many Rohingya in Rakhine remain internally displaced, and conditions in Myanmar do not currently allow for their voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return."

"These conditions can only be met by addressing the root causes of their displacement, which requires a peaceful and stable Myanmar," it added.

The missions acknowledged that a timeline for return "cannot yet be established" and urged all actors to support efforts to create a conducive environment.

Call for accountability

The envoys condemned escalating violence and human rights abuses in Myanmar, urging "an immediate end to all acts of violence and for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access."

They reiterated their call for the military regime to release those unjustly detained, adding: "We remain firmly committed to supporting international efforts for accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and other grave human rights abuses."

Way forward

The statement said the missions would continue working with Bangladesh and the international community to keep global focus on the situation in Myanmar and the humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, including at the upcoming High-Level Conference in September 2025.

They also advocated for durable solutions for Rohingya refugees, including enhancing self-reliance "especially in light of reduced humanitarian funding to the Rohingya response, while also preparing and equipping refugees for their eventual return to Myanmar."

"We will also continue to support Bangladeshi communities in Cox's Bazar who are generously hosting the refugee population," the statement said.