The US government’s suspension of global aid is adversely impacting the Rohingya refugee population in Bangladesh, with severe implications for health, sanitation, and nutrition services. Following the announcement of significant cuts in aid, healthcare facilities are already reporting reduced operations. The situation is aggravated by renewed conflict in Myanmar, leading to an increase in the number of refugees.

The recent suspension of global aid funding by the United States government is already impacting the Rohingya refugees residing in Bangladesh’s camps, as indicated by a senior official on Thursday. This ethnic minority, largely Muslim, faced citizenship deprivation in Myanmar during the 1980s, leading to significant migration to Bangladesh, particularly after 700,000 fled during the military assault in 2017, deemed by the UN as ethnic cleansing.

Currently, over 1.3 million Rohingya live in Cox’s Bazar, home to the largest refugee camp globally. The refugees rely heavily on humanitarian assistance, which has diminished following the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, the US has been the primary donor, providing $301 million in the last fiscal year, accounting for 55 percent of all foreign aid directed at the Rohingya community.

In an executive order issued in late January, the Trump administration announced substantial cuts to US global aid. Mizanur Rahman, the refugee relief and repatriation commissioner, emphasized that reduced US contributions would directly affect the Rohingya, predominantly impacting health, sanitation, and nutrition support.

As a result of these budget cuts, several healthcare facilities within the camps have begun reducing their operations and may shut down completely if funding is not restored by March. The situation is further complicated by renewed violence in Myanmar, prompting an additional 80,000 Rohingya to seek refuge in Bangladesh since August.

Ongoing declines in foreign aid for the Rohingya, coupled with Bangladesh’s existing hosting challenges, exacerbate the plight of these refugees. Healthcare providers such as Save the Children, BRAC, and UNICEF are reporting significant operational difficulties due to the funding reductions initiated by the Trump administration, prompting some agencies to reduce staff.

In anticipation of a total halt to American aid, Mr. Rahman stated that efforts would be made to engage other donor nations to increase support. However, he warned that without sufficient fundraising efforts, the Rohingya population would face dire consequences due to the funding cuts.

In conclusion, the recent suspension of US aid funding poses a significant threat to the well-being of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. With over 1.3 million individuals reliant on humanitarian assistance, the anticipated closure of healthcare services and fading support highlights the urgent need for alternative funding sources. The humanitarian crisis remains critical, necessitating immediate action to prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of the Rohingya community.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com

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