Cox’s bazar: IOM Global Goodwill Ambassador Dimash Qudaibergen has urged the international community to bolster support for over one million Rohingyas residing in Cox’s Bazar, one of the largest refugee settlements globally. “The world must not forget the humanitarian needs of the Rohingya people. Behind every number is a story of resilience, hope, and survival,” stated Dimash Qudaibergen following his two-day visit to the Rohingya camps.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dimash’s visit aimed to raise international awareness and reaffirm global commitment to those affected by crisis and displacement. During his visit from May 18 to 19, he engaged with Rohingya refugee families, youth volunteers, and frontline humanitarian workers to witness the daily challenges faced by displaced communities. The ongoing humanitarian response is supported by the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) in coordination with the Government of Bangladesh, UN agencies, and humanitarian partners.
Nine years on, the situation for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar remains precarious, with many entirely dependent on humanitarian aid. Host communities and services have also been strained due to significant funding shortfalls. As a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Dimash uses his platform to amplify humanitarian messages and encourage action and compassion.
Highlighting the urgent need for sustained international solidarity, Dimash emphasized the importance of continued humanitarian assistance, including access to shelter, healthcare, cleaner cooking energy, water, sanitation and hygiene services, protection, and skills-building. He acknowledged the generosity and resilience of Bangladeshi host communities that continue to support the Rohingya population.
During his visit, Dimash traveled across several camps to learn about IOM’s multisectoral work. He met refugees, community volunteers, and humanitarian staff delivering essential services aimed at reducing protection risks and improving living conditions for families in protracted displacement. At the Rohingya Cultural Memory Centre, Dimash engaged with community-led initiatives using art and storytelling to strengthen well-being and preserve collective identity.
He also observed how site management and service delivery systems help families safely access assistance, including emergency preparedness measures for fires, monsoon rains, and cyclones. IOM teams demonstrated how clean energy cooking solutions are helping reduce health risks and environmental degradation, while shelter and essential item support enhance safety during extreme weather conditions.
At a primary healthcare facility, Dimash learned how essential services, including outpatient care, immunization, and mental health support, are delivered through coordinated referral systems. As humanitarian needs remain high and funding gaps continue to grow, IOM urges the international community to maintain and expand support for the Rohingya response to ensure vulnerable communities are not left behind.