Japan and UNHCR Finalize $2.9 Million Deal for Lifesaving Aid to Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Japan and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have agreed on a deal worth approximately $2.9 million to offer essential lifesaving assistance to Rohingya refugees residing in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char in Bangladesh. The contribution from Japan will ensure the continuation of humanitarian support and the protection of the Rohingya refugees in these areas.

The arrangement was formalised in Dhaka at the UNHCR country office, with the agreement signed by UNHCR Bangladesh Representative Johannes van der Klaauw and IWAMA Kiminori, the Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh.

The Japanese financial aid will bolster the UNHCR's efforts in delivering necessary assistance, particularly in the form of shelter and non-food essentials such as sleeping mats, blankets, and soap. The funds will also facilitate repair work on shelters and vital infrastructure including drains, bridges, and retaining walls.

Speaking on the occasion, Johannes van der Klaauw said the Japanese support comes at a pivotal moment when the Rohingya refugees are rebuilding their lives after the devastation of Cyclone Mocha and recent fires that ravaged the camps. He further noted that the additional funding would provide essential shelter materials and protect refugees from future risks, especially the most vulnerable such as women and children.

The UNHCR's community-led projects on Bhasan Char will also benefit from Japan's contribution, notably increasing service accessibility for disabled persons. Ambassador IWAMA Kiminori voiced his hope that Japan's support will enhance living conditions for both Rohingya and the local communities.

Japan has been a consistent supporter of the Rohingya refugee response in Bangladesh since the emergency began in August 2017, contributing over $200 million to the UNHCR and other UN agencies as well as local NGOs.

This latest agreement follows the recent visit of UNHCR’s Deputy High Commissioner, Kelly T. Clements, to Bangladesh. During her visit, Clements highlighted the ongoing critical needs of refugees and their host communities.

As it stands in June 2023, humanitarian agencies have appealed for over $876 million this year to assist almost 1.5 million individuals, including 930,000 Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar, 30,000 on Bhasan Char, and 495,000 Bangladeshis in adjacent communities. However, the Joint Response Plan is only about 28% funded so far, underscoring the necessity for consistent and sustained funding to avoid a broader humanitarian crisis.