Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – On Friday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, emphasizing the urgent need for increased international support to address the dire conditions faced by the refugees. During his visit, Guterres met with Rohingya leaders and community members, who expressed their desire to return to Myanmar but highlighted the ongoing violence and instability that make such a return impossible at this time.

Guterres described the humanitarian aid cuts by several countries as “a crime,” stressing the devastating impact these cuts have on the already vulnerable Rohingya population. He promised to advocate for the necessary funds to ensure that the refugees receive adequate food, shelter, and medical care.

The UN chief’s visit comes at a critical time, as the World Food Programme (WFP) announced potential cuts to food vouchers for the Rohingya starting next month due to a lack of funding. This reduction could halve the current food assistance, exacerbating the already severe malnutrition rates among the refugees.

“Whatever we are given now is not enough. If that’s halved, we are simply going to starve,” said Mohammed Sabir, a 31-year-old refugee and father of five. The refugees, who are not allowed to work in Bangladesh, rely entirely on international aid for their survival.

Guterres called on the international community to step up their support and ensure that the Rohingya do not face further hardships. He also urged the Myanmar government to create conditions that would allow for the safe and voluntary return of the Rohingya to their homeland.

The visit by the UN Secretary-General has brought renewed attention to the plight of the Rohingya and the urgent need for a sustainable solution to their crisis. As the world watches, the hope remains that increased international support will alleviate the suffering of the Rohingya and pave the way for their eventual return to Myanmar.