Dhaka: The United Nations, alongside its partners and in collaboration with the government of Bangladesh, has made a significant appeal for USD 710.5 million to address the urgent needs of the Rohingya population and local host communities in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char.
According to United News of Bangladesh, this appeal comes amid increasing global instability and humanitarian challenges that threaten vital services for vulnerable communities. The 2026 Joint Response Plan (JRP) update was revealed at the UN House in Dhaka, featuring key figures like Kelly T. Clements of UNHCR, Rania Dagash-Kamara of WFP, and others, emphasizing the need for international support.
The initiative is backed by 98 humanitarian partners, including 52 organizations from Bangladesh. The humanitarian community stresses that the ultimate solution to the Rohingya crisis lies in their safe and voluntary return to Myanmar. However, until conditions improve, international assistance is crucial to uphold human rights and maintain regional stability.
Bangladesh currently shelters over 1.3 million Rohingyas, with recent conflicts in Myanmar adding to the refugee population. Since early 2024, approximately 150,000 new arrivals have further strained resources. The updated JRP aims to assist up to 1.56 million people, covering essential needs like food, shelter, and education, albeit with a reduced appeal amount compared to 2025.
From 2017 to 2025, the international community has contributed nearly USD 5.42 billion to the Rohingya response, with the United States as a primary donor. Despite progress in refugee education and health, significant humanitarian needs persist, risking setbacks without continued support.
Kelly T. Clements highlighted the importance of helping refugees build resilience and self-reliance to maintain hope and independence. Rania Dagash-Kamara praised Bangladesh's generosity and stressed the need to create conditions for the safe return of Rohingyas to Myanmar.
Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda emphasized the severe impact of funding cuts on refugees, particularly women and girls, advocating for a comprehensive, gender-responsive approach to address their needs.
Amid declining funding and economic opportunities, many Rohingyas rely heavily on aid. With ongoing conflict in Rakhine State, hopes for a swift return to Myanmar are diminishing, leading some to undertake perilous journeys in search of better prospects.
The appeal follows a high-level donor mission to Rohingya camps, involving international representatives and emphasizing the necessity for strategic support prioritization and investment in refugee resilience.