By Mohamed Zonaid
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – In a powerful display of solidarity, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will join thousands of Rohingya refugees for a special iftar gathering in Cox’s Bazar today. Their visit comes at a time of growing concerns over deteriorating conditions in both the refugee camps and Myanmar’s Rakhine State, where escalating violence has forced thousands more to flee.
Photo credit: UN Bangladesh
According to an update from the Chief Adviser’s official Facebook page, both Guterres and Yunus have already arrived in Cox’s Bazar. Before the iftar, they will visit the Rohingya Cultural Memorial Center (RCMC), established by IOM Bangladesh, and tour sections of the refugee camps to witness firsthand the conditions faced by the displaced Rohingya.
Bangladesh’s Position: Repatriation as the Only Viable Solution
The Bangladesh government has once again reaffirmed that safe and dignified repatriation to Myanmar remains the only sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis.
Photo credit: Dhaka Tribune
"The highest priority of the international community should be ensuring the safe return of Rohingya refugees to their homeland in Myanmar. Bangladesh is working relentlessly toward this objective," stated the Chief Adviser’s office.
For over eight years, Bangladesh has provided refuge to 1.2 million Rohingya—a humanitarian effort unmatched in modern history. Yet, the crisis continues to deepen, with 80,000 more refugees crossing into Bangladesh in recent months due to fresh outbreaks of violence in Rakhine State. Officials warn that the nation’s capacity to shelter more people is at its breaking point.
In response to the volatile situation in Rakhine, Bangladesh has confirmed ongoing operational contact with the Arakan Army (AA) and other groups. The government has emphasized that its primary concern is border security, regional stability, and the safety of those fleeing violence.
A Shrinking Lifeline: The Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Guterres’ visit comes at a critical moment, as international aid for Rohingya refugees continues to dwindle. The reduction in funding has already resulted in food ration cuts, plunging thousands deeper into malnutrition, especially women and children.
Photo credit: Chief Advisor GOB
At the same time, Bangladesh has expressed willingness to collaborate with UN-led humanitarian efforts in Myanmar, a potential step toward addressing the root causes of displacement while ensuring lifesaving aid reaches those still trapped in the conflict zone.
Guterres’ Message of Hope and Solidarity
Upon arriving in Bangladesh on March 13, Secretary-General Guterres shared a deeply moving message of support.
"Every Ramadan, I spend time with Muslim communities facing hardship, to break the fast with them and shed light on their struggles. This year, I am in Bangladesh to stand in solidarity with the Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi people who have welcomed them with open arms."
Photo credit: UN Bangladesh
A Day of Hope in the Face of Uncertainty
As thousands of Rohingya refugees prepare to share a meal with two of the world’s most influential leaders, the moment is heavy with meaning. It is a reminder that their suffering has not been forgotten—and that their voices still matter.
Yet, behind the smiles and handshakes, a harsh reality remains. Without concrete action, the Rohingya will continue to languish in crowded camps, their futures hanging in limbo.
Tonight’s gathering in Cox’s Bazar is more than just a meal—it is a plea to the world. A plea for dignity, justice, and a lasting solution. And for many, the question lingers: Will the world finally listen?