Tens of thousands of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh marked the seventh anniversary of their exodus from Myanmar with rallies in Cox’s Bazar camps, demanding an end to violence and their safe return. Many held placards reading “Hope is home” and “We Rohingya are the citizens of Myanmar”. In recent weeks, more Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh as fighting escalates in Rakhine state between the military government and the Arakan Army. Doctors without Borders treated 39 people for conflict-related injuries, including women and children. UNICEF raised alarm over reports of civilians, especially children, caught in the crossfire. Seven years after the exodus from Myanmar, about half a million Rohingya refugee children are growing up in the world’s largest refugee camp. Rohingya refugees are calling for the United Nations to ensure their rights and peaceful coexistence with other ethnic communities in Myanmar. Bangladesh’s interim foreign minister urged other neighboring countries to do more to help, while also calling for international pressure on the Arakan Army to stop attacking the Rohingya. MSF’s country representative in Bangladesh emphasized the need to protect civilians caught in the conflict in Myanmar and ensure access to vital medical care. The anniversary rallies highlight the ongoing plight of the Rohingya as they continue to seek safety and justice.
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Rohingya in Myanmar demand an end to violence: ‘Enough is Enough’
