The European Rohingya Council (ERC) has issued an urgent appeal to the to the Bangladesh border authorities and the international community to intervene in the planned return of 300 Rohingya refugees, who fled to Bangladesh on the night of 5 August 2024.
In a statement issued on 6 August, said this group of refugees, some of whom have already received medical treatment for injuries, are now at risk of being forcefully sent back to Myanmar, where they face severe persecution.
The ERC says the situation in Myanmar is increasingly dire, particularly with the Arakan Army (AA) intensifying its attacks against the Rohingya population. The region has become exceedingly unsafe, with conditions that may surpass the atrocities of 2017. Returning these Rohingya would place them in grave danger and constitute a breach of the international humanitarian law, especially the principle of non-refoulement.
The ERC commends Bangladesh for its historical compassion and mercy towards the Rohingya refugees, providing shelter to those escaping conflict and persecution. This humanitarian spirit is a testament to the country’s commitment to upholding human rights.
We appeal to the Bangladeshi authorities to continue this tradition by granting these refugees temporary protection within its borders.
Furthermore, the ERC calls upon the United Nations and international organizations to step in and support Bangladesh in managing the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The international community must act swiftly to provide necessary resources and supports, ensuring the safety and dignity of these vulnerable individuals. Coordinated international efforts are essential to address this. urgent situation and prevent further atrocities.
The NGO urges all parties involved to work together to protect the lives of these refugees and to seek a sustainable and humane solution to this crisis. The ERC stands ready to assist in any capacity and hopes for a swift and compassionate response from the global community.
