The Rohingya crisis requires renewed international action as insecurity, displacement and aid shortages worsen across Myanmar, Bangladesh and the region, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said.
UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said Monday that funding cuts were reducing life-saving assistance and limiting prospects for lasting solutions nearly a decade after the 2017 crisis.
In Myanmar, Rohingya and other communities remain caught in conflict involving the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army, Dujarric said.
He said civilians continue to face killings, restricted movement and limited humanitarian access. Rohingya communities also face forced recruitment, arbitrary arrests and sexual violence, according to the UN statement.
Guterres called for civilian protection under international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law. The UN chief also thanked Bangladesh and other countries hosting refugees from Myanmar. He urged states to continue protecting people fleeing the crisis.
Read: Recent Maritime Disasters Highlight Rohingyas’ and Migrants’ Perils
Guterres expressed alarm over growing numbers of Rohingya dying at sea. He called for regional cooperation on search and rescue, safe disembarkation and action against human trafficking.
The statement also raised concern over misinformation, disinformation and hate speech targeting Rohingya communities.
Read: UN urged to punish Myanmar army over Rohingya ‘atrocities’
UN Special Envoy on Myanmar Julie Bishop continues talks with stakeholders aimed at ending violence and supporting an inclusive Myanmar-led political process.
Guterres said humanitarian assistance and livelihood support should continue until conditions allow voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable Rohingya returns.
