Photo: Messenger
Recent global circumstances, geopolitical dynamics and funding crises are pushing the Rohingya situation in Bangladesh further into uncertainty. To address these challenges and for a sustainable future of this Rohingya response consorted efforts are required from the international community, government, donors and partners.
Speakers reflected these at the "Plumbers of the World: Legacy and Realities of Rohingya Response," jointly organized by Oxfam in Bangladesh and the Office of the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC) at a hotel in Cox's Bazar on Wednesday. The event showcased Oxfam’s innovation, best practices, and key learnings from the Rohingya response, particularly in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) innovations, and addressed current challenges, including funding constraints, resource depletion, and shifting international attention.
Speaking at the inaugural session, the RRRC Commissioner Mohammad Mizanur Rahman noted that the Rohingya issue is becoming increasingly complex. He stated, ‘Recently, the U.S. administration announced a pause in funding for Rohingya refugees, which will worsen the Rohingya crisis. When it comes to WASH management in the camps, this is one of the most critical sectors among 8-9 others. Ensuring safe water, sanitation, and health protection for such a large population in a limited area is a significant challenge.’
The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Mohammad Kamrul Hasan ndc, Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. He emphasized, ‘Our ultimate goal should be to repatriate them (the Rohingya) to their homeland. Although the Joint Response Plan (JRP) 2024 has created some opportunities for Rohingya to become self-reliant and be able to create livelihood opportunities for themselves upon their return, the reality is that they are idly sitting, which poses a security threat for everyone. In such a situation, we cannot guarantee that there is no potential risk for extremism or terrorist activities.’
Special Guest Sumbul Rizvi, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh, remarked, ‘Ultimately Rohingya people in Bangladesh want to get back. But we need to consider the safety and security issues as well. Many Rohingya people from Myanmar are still trying to enter Bangladesh through the border, which could have significant negative implications for Bangladesh as a neighboring country. Comprehensive approaches are needed to address the short time and long-term challenges of the Rohingya crisis.’
During the opening remarks, Ashish Damle, country director of Oxfam in Bangladesh said, ‘When the Rohingya arrived in droves, it was the local communities who first offered help, sharing their homes, food, and clothes. The Government of Bangladesh, despite its own challenges, allocated resources, ensured safety, and facilitated humanitarian aid.’
The event featured two discussion sessions. One focused on the current state, challenges, and future of WASH for the local community and Rohingya population in Cox's Bazar. The second session addressed actionable steps to ensure a sustainable future for both communities. A two-day photography exhibition showcasing various inspirational stories of the Rohingya community was also part of the event.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Mohammad Salahuddin, District Commissioner of Cox's Bazar; David Bagden, Principal Coordinator of the Inter-Sector Coordination Group (ISCG) for the Rohingya Refugee Response; Mohammad Nazmul Abedin from the Refugee Cell of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief; and Dr. Silja Rajendran, Head of Sub-Office at UN Women. Additionally, representatives from various government, non-governmental, and international organizations, as well as NGOs, INGOs, and civil society, participated in discussions related to the Rohingya issue.
It is noteworthy that Oxfam has established the world's largest faecal sludge treatment plant in the Rohingya camps, which plays a crucial role in the humanitarian sector. This facility ensures the management of 180 cubic meters of waste daily, benefiting approximately 150,000 people. Furthermore, organic waste is transformed into compost within 40 days, which is then used in local agriculture. As a result, soil fertility has improved for both the Rohingya and local communities, significantly increasing crop production.
Messenger/Tushar
