The United Nations cannot avoid its responsibility regarding the fate of over one million Rohingya refugees now sheltered in Bangladesh. It must come forward in order to lead and organise the much-awaited repatriation of the ill-fated Rohingyas. Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen made the observation while talking to journalists after emerging out of a memorial discussion on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
“The United Nations has a responsibility. As an inter-governmental organisation tasked with maintaining international peace and security, it can’t avoid its responsibility,” the FM said in reply to a query. ““The hatred has been there (Rakhine) for a long time. But, they (Myanmar authorities) did not take that seriously. The UN could take a lead to lessen the hatred,” he added.
The discussion styled ‘August 15 and its impact on Bangladesh’ was organised by Awami League’s international affairs sub-committee at Bangabandhu Memorial Trust at Dhanmondi in the capital on Friday, marking the National Mourning Day. Terming Rohingya crisis an international one, the minister said, “World community must come forward to resolve this burning issue.”
Criticising reluctance of Myanmar government to take back the Rohingyas, Momen said, “Congenial atmosphere is yet to be created in Myanmar state of Rakhine. The country is intentionally delaying the repatriation move.” Referring to Thursday’s postponed repatriation attempt, he said, “This is not our failure. Bangladesh is waiting with a high hope. The problem is created by Myanmar and solution lies there.”
Assuring that efforts would continue for voluntary and safe return of Rohingyas, Momen said, “But success of Rohingya repatriation lies at the hands of Myanmar. The country, on the first hand, must ensure that peace and stability are prevailing there.” The discussion was attended by more than 20 foreign envoys from different countries including Russia, United Kingdom, Japan, China and USA.
It is mentionable that just a day before, on Thursday, the second Rohingya repatriation attempt went in vain after people of the community refused to go back, fearing further sufferings. Notable, the UN is still facing various obstacles, created by Myanmar government, to obtain access to the troubled villages in Rakhine. The UNHCR, in a statement on Thursday, sought ‘more predictable and effective access to troubled places.
