Rohingyas in Bangladesh Exceeds 1.5 Million; Economic Strain Intensifies

Home Affairs Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has stated that the number of Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh has surpassed 1.5 million. He noted that providing long-term refuge and humanitarian assistance to such a large population has placed increasing pressure on the country’s economy, security, and social structure.

The Home Minister made these remarks on Wednesday (November 11) at his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs, during a courtesy call with Kelly E. Currie, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar.

Actual Number Exceeds Official Figures

The Home Minister explained that while official records indicate a lower figure, the actual number of Rohingyas currently sheltered in Bangladesh has exceeded 1.5 million. Sustaining such a vast number of people—by providing food, shelter, and other humanitarian aid over an extended period—has created significant strain on the national economy.

It is worth noting that, according to registration data from the United Nations and the Government of Bangladesh (as of August 2026), the number of registered Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char stood at approximately 1.202 million. The figure cited by the Home Minister reflects his assessment of the actual total.

Emphasis on Safe Repatriation

During the meeting, Salahuddin Ahmed underscored the importance of a safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas as the only permanent solution to the crisis. He emphasized that achieving this goal requires a coordinated effort and an effective role from the international community.

The discussion also covered the ongoing political situation in Myanmar, human rights violations, border security, and the law-and-order situation within the Rohingya camps.

The Home Minister urged the international community to act responsibly following the upcoming verdict—expected on November 19—from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the case concerning the Rohingya genocide in Myanmar.

Discussions on Camp Security and International Cooperation

UN Special Rapporteur Kelly E. Currie commended the Government of Bangladesh for its long-standing humanitarian support for the Rohingyas. She also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the United Nations and international partners to create conditions conducive to safe repatriation, as well as to ensure citizenship and fundamental rights for the Rohingya people.

The meeting also addressed the need to control drug and arms trafficking, as well as cybercrime, in the areas surrounding the Rohingya camps. Discussions were held on enhancing training, modern technology, and technical support for law enforcement agencies to address these crimes.

Furthermore, the need to increase diplomatic pressure on Myanmar through the concerted efforts of influential stakeholders—including China, India, the United States, and the European Union—was highlighted.

The meeting was attended by Thomas Huneke, who accompanied the UN Special Rapporteur; Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs; Joint Secretary Rebeca Khan; and other relevant officials.