Oxfam urges global action on BD's twin trouble

Bangladesh confronts the interlinked challenges of 1.2 million forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (Rohingya) and 1.8 million people internally displaced by climate-related disasters in the last decade, Oxfam says in a statement received on Thursday, the World Refugee Day 2024.
These issues spotlight global inequalities and demand urgent attention from Oxfam in Bangladesh, the statement adds.
Oxfam has calculated that in Bangladesh, severe water-related disasters, including floods and cyclones, are impacting food security. Nearly 12 million people or 31 per cent of the total population, are facing high levels of food insecurity.
Bangladesh's recent severe Cyclone Remal will exacerbate the country's climate change vulnerabilities, as 4.6 million people have been directly affected, and agriculture in 48 out of 64 districts has been impacted. This poses a significant concern for the future food security of the country, it observes.
Simultaneously, the Rohingya crisis remains critical as 1.2 million of Rohingya people are living in Cox's Bazar camps after fleeing persecution in Myanmar. Recent clashes in Myanmar continue to force more Rohingya to seek refuge in Bangladesh, escalating tensions and emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid and sustainable solutions.
Ashish Damle, Oxfam Country Director of Bangladesh, emphasized, "Climate change starkly exposes the inequalities faced by vulnerable countries like Bangladesh. Continuous disasters push communities into perpetual vulnerability, demanding immediate global action. Rich, polluting nations must take responsibility by reducing emissions and providing adequate climate finance to impacted countries like Bangladesh. Adaptation requires finance; early warning systems and social protection all need funding."
Bangladesh's response to hosting these displaced Rohingya manifests its commitment to humanitarian principles despite resource constraints. The Rohingya situation represents one of the largest refugee populations globally, necessitating robust international support and solidarity.
Damle added, "We must protect all individuals, including Rohingya refugees, making sure their rights and dignity are upheld."
On the World Refugee Day, Oxfam in Bangladesh urged the global community to prioritise comprehensive strategies that tackle climate injustices and refugee crises simultaneously. Sustainable resolutions are essential to fostering peace and stability, both within Bangladesh and across the world.