UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch warned Tuesday in Geneva that sharp declines in humanitarian and development funds are jeopardizing essential services for one of the world’s largest refugee populations.
Speaking to reporters, Baloch stated, “The generous support of Bangladesh and the international community is critical for meeting their basic needs and ensuring protection.”
The largest influx of Rohingya refugees occurred in August 2017, when approximately 750,000 people fled violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State to seek refuge in Bangladesh. UNHCR has highlighted that the support from Bangladesh and donors has been vital for meeting basic needs and providing protection since then.
Funding Pressure Mounts
The UN’s appeal comes amid rising global instability and competing humanitarian crises that are straining aid budgets worldwide.
Last month, the United Nations and its partners, in collaboration with the Government of Bangladesh, requested $705 million to address the most urgent needs of Rohingya refugees and host communities in 2026. This figure represents a 26% decrease from last year’s funding appeal, reflecting a shift towards a “hyper-priority” response focusing on the most critical needs, as described by aid organizations.
Since 2017, humanitarian funding has supported the provision of food aid, healthcare, education, and protection services. However, UNHCR cautions that significant needs persist, and conditions could deteriorate without sustained support.
Rohingya refugees remain heavily reliant on aid, with limited opportunities for income generation. Vulnerable groups, including women, girls, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by funding shortfalls. Challenges have also increased for approximately 150,000 new refugees fleeing renewed violence in Rakhine State since early 2024.
Restricted humanitarian access and funding shortages are leaving communities without adequate food, clean water, and healthcare services.
Diminishing Hopes for Return
UNHCR reports that ongoing conflict, persecution, and insecurity within Myanmar continue to prevent refugees from returning safely.
As prospects for return diminish, more Rohingya are resorting to dangerous sea journeys to seek opportunities elsewhere in the region.
According to the agency, 2025 has already been recorded as the deadliest year for such crossings, with an estimated 900 Rohingya refugees killed or missing in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal.
UNHCR emphasizes that merely sustaining minimal humanitarian assistance could lead to more severe and costly consequences in the future.
Baloch reiterated the call for sustained solidarity from the international community with refugees from Myanmar, Rohingya refugees, and host communities until conflict and violence cease, urging efforts to ensure voluntary, safe, and dignified returns when conditions permit, alongside continued humanitarian support.
