President,
Eight years ago, the Myanmar military caused mass displacement of the Rohingyas.
Four and a half years ago, the same military overthrew the democratically elected government.
The consequences are increased human suffering and regression in all areas of development and human rights. 3.5 million people are internally displaced.
The humanitarian needs are rising dramatically.
The Rohingya and other minorities are particularly affected and many minority-populated areas remain active conflict zones.
Restrictions prevent humanitarian aid from reaching conflict-affected areas. This is unacceptable and must end.
Many have been forced to flee across borders. More than 1.1 million Rohingya remain displaced in Bangladesh.
President,
We are grateful to Bangladesh for its efforts to ensure the basic needs and rights of the Rohingya refugees.
We acknowledge the resilience of Rohingya in the face of their ongoing hardship and displacement.
We hear the voices promoting their repatriation.
Refugees need an environment that allows for voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return.
This is currently not the case in Rakhine State.
Rakhine is affected by armed conflict, a military-imposed blockade, ethnic tensions, and a severe humanitarian crisis, with no imminent solutions in sight.
We welcome efforts to facilitate the refugees’ access to work and livelihoods while in Bangladesh.
This will support their ability to live with dignity and self-reliance both in Bangladesh - and in Myanmar, when conditions are conducive for return.
At the same time, we encourage the provision of time and space for confidence-building processes between different stakeholders in Rakhine.
President,
A solution for the Rohingya can only be found within the context of a broader solution to the political and security crisis in Myanmar.
We reiterate our call for an immediate end to all attacks against civilians and urge all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.
We call for safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access and encourage others to join in the funding efforts.
We continue to support efforts to promote genuine, constructive, and inclusive dialogue, that includes women and youth.
This is the only way forward to address root causes, find peaceful, durable solutions and lay the foundations for a return to the path of inclusive democracy in Myanmar.