Conflicts AA, ARMY, ASIA, BANGLADESH, BNP, CIVIL WAR, DHAKA, FOREIGN POLICY, HUMAN RIGHTS, ICG, INDIA, MYANMAR, RAKHINE, SECURITY Clara Montgomery June 18, 2025 0 Comments

ICG Urges Bangladesh to Continue Engaging with Arakan Army Amid Rohingya Crisis

The International Crisis Group recommends that Bangladesh continue talks with the Arakan Army concerning informal cross-border assistance amid fears of Rohingya violence. The ICG’s report underscores the need for better security coordination to counteract influences from armed groups, while advising on the importance of international aid to support Rohingya refugees and to mitigate risks of insurgency. It also urges Bangladesh to enhance living conditions in Rakhine through trade and aid, and highlights the dire humanitarian needs in the region.

The International Crisis Group (ICG) has highlighted the Bangladesh government’s ongoing discussions with the Arakan Army (AA) in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. The group expressed concerns over potential violent responses from armed Rohingya factions, advising Dhaka to continue engaging in talks with the AA regarding informal cross-border assistance, which they view as the most viable path forward. This recommendation comes in the wake of increasing tensions related to humanitarian strategies for Rohingya refugees.

In a report released on June 18, the ICG provided a comprehensive analysis of the Rohingya situation, pointing out the complex interplay between the Bangladesh government and the Arakan Army. The report underscored the need for improved coordination among Bangladesh’s security agencies to curb the influence of Rohingya groups, especially given the interim government’s recent decision to forego the discussion of a humanitarian corridor. This decision sparked political and military controversy, with significant opposition from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and military leaders.

The ICG emphasized the urgency of preventing armed Rohingya groups from recruiting within refugee camps. They have called for stricter monitoring to prevent these individuals from accessing the camps and advocated for cutting off the supply lines that enable these groups to obtain weapons. The organization’s stance suggests that continued unrest could jeopardize Bangladesh’s relationship with the Arakan Army, ultimately leading to a deterioration of the region’s stability and fueling further recruitment into armed factions.

Moreover, the ICG maintained that continued international assistance to Rohingya refugees is crucial in order to stave off an insurgency emanating from the camps. They argue that the Bangladesh authorities face significant challenges, particularly in engaging with a non-state actor like the AA, especially considering Myanmar’s military regime is unlikely to regain control over Rakhine State or retaliate against Dhaka.

The report also indicated that Bangladesh, the Arakan Army, and international actors have a shared opportunity to foster more hope in the region. The ICG urged Bangladesh to enhance living conditions in Rakhine by permitting cross-border aid and trade, while simultaneously severing ties with armed groups among the Rohingya. It suggests increasing supplies of food, construction materials, and agricultural inputs to areas controlled by the AA, which are reportedly facing severe shortages due to restrictions from Myanmar’s military authorities.

In a broader context, the ICG recommended that foreign powers must remain committed to supporting humanitarian efforts. They cautioned that neglecting these measures could lead to disastrous consequences in both northern Rakhine and southern Bangladesh. Therefore, it is crucial for Dhaka to persist in dialogues with the Arakan Army, addressing humanitarian needs and fostering trust among all parties involved while stressing the overwhelming humanitarian crises faced by Rohingya still in northern Rakhine.

In conclusion, the International Crisis Group advises the Bangladesh government to maintain dialogue with the Arakan Army while pursuing informal assistance strategies. Amid significant challenges and fears of escalation with armed Rohingya groups, the report underscores the necessity of aiding affected populations and emphasizing humanitarian needs. The organization warns of potential disastrous consequences if these measures are ignored, making it imperative for both local and international actors to act responsibly.

Original Source: nenews.in