Rohingya Refugee Crisis Research Articles

Breaking Barriers: Addressing STI Healthcare Access Challenges among Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Background: The Rohingya refugee crisis, stemming from Myanmar's Rakhine State, has led to a significant displacement of nearly a million Rohingya seeking refuge in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district. Among the myriad health challenges faced by this population, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) present a pressing concern. The study aimed to explore the burden of STIs among Rohingya refugees in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, by examining the prevalence of STIs, associated risk factors and access to healthcare services. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2023, involving 150 Rohingya refugees residing in refugee camps in Cox's Bazar. Data collection included demographic characteristics, STI symptoms, healthcare-seeking behavior, perceived barriers to healthcare access and access to transportation. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlation analysis and logistic regression were employed for data analysis. Results: Preliminary findings revealed a high prevalence of STI symptoms among Rohingya refugees, with 20.0% experiencing genital ulcers, 33.3% reporting vaginal discharge and 26.7% suffering from painful urination. However, only 46.7% sought treatment from healthcare providers, with perceived barriers such as financial constraints (40.0%) and lack of awareness (26.7%) hindering access to healthcare. Conclusion: By shedding light on the complex interplay of demographic, socioeconomic and healthcare-related factors, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the health challenges faced by displaced populations and underscores the importance of tailored healthcare strategies in humanitarian settings. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 7(1), June 2024; 32-34

Search for Durable Solution to the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Bangladesh

Search for Durable Solution to the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Bangladesh

Decoding Online Narratives and Unraveling Complexities in the Rohingya Refugee Crisis

The Rohingya refugee crisis, a humanitarian tribulation involving the persecution of the Rohingya Muslim ethnic minority group in Myanmar, has led to a massive exodus of refugees, primarily women and children, to neighboring Bangladesh. Analyzing public opinion toward the Rohingya crisis poses a challenge due to the time complexity of manually assessing individual expressions from the vast amount of text on online platforms. This research focuses on identifying hidden patterns in online discussions surrounding the Rohingya refugee crisis, employing topic modeling and a thematic sentiment analysis-based approach. It represents the first comprehensive exploration of public views on internet spaces to support this community. In the experiment, we identified 15 coherent topics from 6,840 unique documents with a high coherence score of about 0.60. The key themes explored encompass familial resilience, the urgency of addressing the refugee crisis, complexities within the Rohingya situation, religious and cultural elements, and geopolitical considerations. Sentiment analysis revealed nuanced emotional tones, with positive sentiments in discussions about refugee support and international aid and mixed or negative sentiments in topics concerning religious dynamics and women’s protection. The implications of this research extend to guiding policymakers, humanitarian organizations, and advocacy groups in developing targeted interventions, communication strategies, and informed policy initiatives. In addition, the findings emphasize the importance of understanding and responding effectively to the multifaceted challenges faced by the Rohingya community.

From humanitarian crisis to burden: understanding the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh

From humanitarian crisis to burden: understanding the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh

Implications of refugee crisis on public sector healthcare organizations: Empirical observation from Myanmar’s Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh

Abstract Political crises, like the refugee crisis, present significant challenges to nation-states and public sector entities. The influx of refugees from Myanmar to Bangladesh has intensified over recent decades, notably after severe violence erupted in Myanmar’s Rakhine state on 25 August 2017. This study focuses on public service organizations, aiming to understand the impact of the Rohingya refugee crisis. Using a qualitative approach and drawing on existing literature, the research examines how the crisis affects the capacity of public healthcare providers in Bangladesh. The findings reveal both detrimental and beneficial effects on organizational functioning, including management, resource availability, and absorptive and adaptive capacities. Through data analysis, eight key themes emerge, such as changes in service quality, disease control, resource allocation dynamics, and impacts on professional knowledge, shedding light on the complex repercussions of the Rohingya refugee crisis on public healthcare services in Bangladesh.

The Role of Muslim Rohingya Refugee Community-Based Organizations in Malaysia

The Rohingya refugee crisis has spurred the formation of community-based organizations (CBOs) among Muslim Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. This qualitative research explores the role and impact of these organizations within the refugee community. By employing a mixed-methods approach, including semi-structured interviews and content analysis, the study delves into the motivations, activities, challenges, and outcomes of Rohingya CBOs. The findings suggest that these CBOs play a critical role in bridging the gap between formal assistance and the unique needs of the Rohingya population in Malaysia. They offer vital services, foster a sense of belonging, and contribute to mental well-being. However, challenges related to resources and sustainability are apparent. This research contributes to a better understanding of refugee agencies and grassroots initiatives. It sheds light on the significance of CBOs as agents of change, amplifying the voices and actions of refugees themselves. The study's findings show that both policy and practice support and empower refugee communities.

Rohingya Refugee in Bangladesh: An Overview from Multi-DimenSional Approaches

The Rohingya refugee crisis is not a recent phenomenon for Bangladesh rather Bangladesh has started experiencing the problems of the issue of Refugees since 1978. Presently, a large number of unregistered refugees fled from Myanmar and are living in two official camps in Nayapara and Kutupalong which have become a matter of great concern for Bangladesh. These people are simply spoiling the reputation of Bangladesh in the international arena, at the same time, becoming the security threat for Bangladesh through committing various crimes including involving themselves in terror activities, working like drug traffickers and others as well as using fake Bangladeshi passport. However, this article is a comprehensive study to understand about- “Rohingya Refugee in Bangladesh: An Overview from Multi-Dimensional Approaches”. Here, obviously tried to understand from Bangladesh perspective but also an objective study of how Bangladesh is facing challenges to deal with the crisis and also a discussion on how other powerful countries and International Organizations are working to resolve the most burning issue. Moreover, this article argues that the Rohingya crisis is no longer only a humanitarian calamity but a potential threat to Bangladesh’s internal stability.

The impact of humanitarian emergencies on adolescent boys: Findings from the Rohingya refugee crisis.

Adolescent boys (age 9-19) are impacted differently by humanitarian emergencies. However, academic research on adolescent health and child protection has tended to focus on the direct impacts of an emergency rather than indirect impacts that may arise after a crisis. We sought to identify child protection concerns affecting adolescent boys in emergency settings and boys who are more vulnerable to harm through a case study of the humanitarian response to the 2017 Rohingya refugee crisis. We collected data in the Rohingya refugee crisis in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh between 2018-2019. This included six months of participant observation, 23 semi-structured interviews and 12 informal ethnographic interviews with humanitarian staff working in the crisis, and 10 focus group discussions with a total of 52 child protection caseworkers from four child protection organisations. Our results showed that adolescent Rohingya boys were exposed to numerous protection concerns, including child labour, drug trafficking, substance abuse, family violence, and neglect. We classified these into three main typologies: community-related violence, income-related violence, and life-stage vulnerabilities. We found that adolescent boys who were unaccompanied or separated from their caregivers, adolescent boys who were members of vulnerable households, and adolescent boys with a disability were at more risk of harm. Our findings indicate that adolescent boys are exposed to an array of impactful child protection concerns in humanitarian emergencies and that this has implications for the delivery of public health and child protection interventions. We believe that humanitarian actors should improve recognition of the complexity of adolescent boys' lives and their exposure to gender and age-based harm as a critical matter for addressing adolescent health equity.

Exploring International Legal Challenges For Unhcr In Dealing With Rohingya Refugees In Aceh, Indonesia

The difficulties the UNHCR has managing Rohingya refugees in Indonesia are the main topic of this article. This article focuses on the challenges faced by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in managing Rohingya refugees in Indonesia. As the primary international agency tasked with refugee management globally, the UNHCR plays a crucial role in preventing statelessness, determining refugee status, and providing comprehensive remedies. However, the study reveals that despite receiving approval from the Indonesian government to operate, the UNHCR encounters difficulties in fulfilling its mandate to assist Indonesia's ethnic Rohingya refugees. This limitation is attributed to the escalating number of asylum seekers in Indonesia requiring aid. The research utilizes content analysis to delve into UNHCR's struggles with Rohingya refugees, gathering and analyzing various sources such as reports, studies, news, and policies related to Rohingya refugees in Aceh. Through this method, the study uncovers patterns and challenges encountered by the UNHCR, including managing crises and navigating international and local cooperation. Ultimately, this research provides a detailed understanding of the complexities surrounding the Rohingya refugee crisis in Aceh.

Understanding Bangladesh–China Relations from ‘Win-Win Cooperation’ and ‘NOISE’ Analysis Perspectives

The study evaluates Bangladesh–China relations through the ‘win-win cooperation’ lens and concludes with a ‘NOISE’ (Needs-Opportunities-Improvements-Strengths-Exceptions) analysis. Bangladesh, a South Asian developing nation, has maintained a strategic partnership with Beijing since the establishment of their diplomatic ties. However, the relationship gained exceptional momentum after Bangladesh’s inclusion in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Bangladesh’s need for growth-necessary financing and China’s massive foreign investment outlook have contributed to the growth of their economic engagements. The analysis suggests that the Bangladesh–China relationship exhibits ‘win-win cooperation’ dynamics. The study identified the significant trade gap, loan agreements, and disbursement delays, along with others, challenging the solid Bangladesh–China bilateral economic interactions. The Rohingya refugee crisis resolve and geopolitical competition among major powers are two non-bilateral issues that could potentially impact future Dhaka–Beijing relations. Overcoming the existing barriers could position Bangladesh–China relations as a model for smaller-major power bilateral relations, particularly for developing nations. It is a desk research by design. The findings of this study may provide insights to policymakers in addressing the existing barriers to meet future needs.

The Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh: assessing the impact on land use patterns and land surface temperature using machine learning.

Bangladesh, a third-world country with the seventh highest population density in the world, has always struggled to ensure its residents' basic needs. But in recent years, the country is going through a serious humanitarian and financial crisis that has been imposed by the neighboring country Myanmar which has forced the government to shelter almost a million Rohingya refugees in less than 3years (2017-2020). The government had no other option but to acquire almost 24.1 km2 of forest areas only to construct refugee camps for the Rohingyas which has led to catastrophic environmental outcomes. This study has analyzed the land use and land surface temperature pattern change of the Rohingya camp area for the course of 1997 to 2022 with a 5-year interval rate. Future prediction of the land use and temperature of Teknaf and Ukhiya was also done in this process using a machine learning algorithm for the years 2028 and 2034. The analysis says that in the camp area, from 1997 to 2017, percentage of settlements increased from 5.28 to 11.91% but in 2022, it reached 70.09%. The same drastically changing trend has also been observed in the land surface temperature analysis. In the month of January, the average temperature increased from 18.86 to 21.31°C between 1997 and 2017. But in 2022. it was found that the average temperature had increased up to 25.94°C in only a blink of an eye. The future prediction of land use also does not have anything pleasing in store.

Rohingya Refugees: A Study of Indonesian Government Policies

The Rohingya refugee crisis is a complex and pressing humanitarian issue in the Southeast Asia region. Conflict in Myanmar has forced thousands of Rohingya to flee seeking protection in neighboring countries. This research aims to evaluate the Indonesian government's policy in handling the Rohingya refugee crisis and provide recommendations for future policy improvements. The research method used is a qualitative approach with descriptive and comparative analysis. The analysis results indicate that Indonesia's policy towards Rohingya refugee flows reflects a commitment to humanitarian principles and national security. However, evaluating the implemented policies is necessary to understand their effectiveness. The implications of the Rohingya refugee flow for Indonesia's national security include risks of regional and global instability as well as threats to the security of individuals and groups. Indonesia's strategies for preventing and mitigating the impact of Rohingya refugees involve strengthening border surveillance, regional cooperation, refugee status organization, and social integration. Recommendations from this research include improving coordination between agencies, enhancing government capacity in managing refugee crises, and increasing protection and assistance to Rohingya refugees. This research is expected to contribute to understanding Indonesia's government policies towards the Rohingya refugee crisis and provide recommendations to enhance policy effectiveness.

Hindutva Politics and the Making of Extreme Precarity

Abstract This article investigates the intersection of Hindutva politics and Bharatiya Janata Party policies concerning Rohingyas in India. Analyzing the government’s approach through official statements, legislative measures, and implementation strategies, it aims to uncover the factors shaping BJP policies toward Rohingyas. Additionally, it explores the Rohingya community’s perspectives on government attitudes, political dynamics, and implemented policies, providing a nuanced understanding of the policies’ impact. By shedding light on the intricate interplay between political ideology and refugee governance, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of migration, identity politics, and governance challenges in contemporary India. Scrutinizing the interweaving threads of political philosophy and refugee management, the research not only documents the current situation but also offers insights into broader implications for India’s political landscape and the lived experiences of the Rohingya community. This exploration is a crucial step toward understanding the evolving socio-political landscape in India concerning the Rohingya refugee crisis.

Commentary on “Marginalisation and Human Rights in Southeast Asia” by Routledge

Human rights and democracy in Southeast Asia continues to attract the attention of scientists in this region to study and examine them in depth. In this context, a centralized and methodical style of authoritarianism, such as that used by Suharto's New Order in Indonesia, has restricted public dialogue of human rights and democracy , and is unlikely to attract the public of Southeast Asia today, according to social scientists, researchers, and Islamic scholars (ulemas). The people of Southeast Asia are tireless champions of human rights, social justice, and democracy to this day. The editors of this book, namely Al Khanif and Khoo Ying Hooi, have put together a book that, in its own way, succinctly and forcefully analyzes marginalization and human rights in Southeast Asia and provides a range of perspectives on the subject. This book covers a wide range of topics, including the success of ASEAN cooperation in ending statelessness, human rights violations committed against migrant workers, the protection of disabled people's rights on a regional scale, the Rohingya refugee crisis, the Moro's plight, religious and ethnic minorities' rights, academic freedom in authoritarian regimes, child abuse, and security concerns in Southeast Asia.
 Keywords: Southeast Asia, Human Rights

CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF NORMAN FAIRCLOUGH ON ONLINE MEDIA REPORTING ABOUT THE ROHINGYA REFUGEE CRISIS

Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) examines language as 'discourse,' where language is understood as one element within social processes that dialectically relate to each other. Critical discourse analysis precisely aims to explore these dialectical interconnections within the tradition of critical social science. In this research, the researcher will employ Norman Fairclough's model of critical discourse analysis, which examines discourse analysis through three theories: Text Analysis (Microstructural) related to cohesion and coherence, grammar, and diction; Production Practice Analysis (Mesostructural) dealing with the text production process, text dissemination, and text consumption, such as work patterns, workflow, and routines in news production; Social Cultural Practice Analysis (Macrostructural) related to situational, institutional, and social aspects. This study utilizes a qualitative descriptive method to deepen the critical analysis description of news discourse. The research data consists of words, phrases, or sentences in two online news discourses supporting the research problem. The data collection technique employed is documentary study. The news regarding the arrival of Rohingya refugees in Aceh published by VIVA.co.id becomes the focus of critical discourse analysis using Norman Fairclough's approach. This news reflects the text production process involving microstructural, mesostructural, and macrostructural aspects. In microstructural analysis, language use and representation are highlighted. Phrases like "coming to Indonesia using old boats" and quotes from netizens create negative stereotypes about Rohingya refugees. Social interactions are reflected in conflicts and societal concerns represented by these comments. In mesostructural analysis, the selection of topics, framing, and source determination becomes the focus. Choosing to report the Rohingya refugee issue with a predominantly negative framing reflects editorial production decisions influenced by preferences. Determining sources from netizens and UNHCR creates variations in perspectives. Macrostructural analysis highlights the social, political, and cultural values that shape the news. The Rohingya refugee crisis and global migration politics form the macro background influencing news production. Indonesian cultural values and ideology are reflected in the stigmatization of refugees. In conclusion, this critical discourse analysis reveals how text production practices, social interactions, and macrostructural contexts are interconnected. This news not only reflects internal language and media dynamics but is also tied to power, ideology, and cultural values within society. This analysis opens up space for a deeper understanding of narrative construction and its impact on public perceptions of Rohingya refugees in Indonesia. Keywords: Critical Discourse Analysis, Norman Fairclough, News.

Knowledge And Awareness On Occurrence/incidence Of Different Diseases (Disease Burden) Among The Rohingya Refugee People: A Cross Sectional Study On Fdmn Community In Rohingya Refugee Settlement, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Background: The Rohingya refugee crisis is a prominent humanitarian issue that has compelled many Rohingya individuals to vacate their residences in Myanmar and seek asylum in nearby nations, with a special emphasis on Bangladesh. Since the commencement of this crisis, the Rohingya refugees have been residing in densely populated and resource-limited settlements, encountering a multitude of health-related difficulties. The prevalence and control of infections inside refugee populations have emerged as a significant issue for humanitarian organizations and public health professionals. Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to determine the knowledge and awareness on occurrence/incidence of different diseases (disease burden) among the Rohingya Refugee people in Rohingya Refugee settlement, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional survey on Rohingya people (N = 510) living in refugee camps in Bangladesh. Data was collected via face-to-face interviews, after voluntary consent, using a pretested, language validated questionnaire on knowledge and awareness. The non-probability and purposive sampling methods have been used in this study. Results & Discussion: A total of 510 refugee people were enrolled in this study where maximum participants’ age group was 21-30 years (n=224, 43.9%). Male and female respondents’ participation was nearly equal (male: n=264, 51.8%; female: n=246, 48.2%). About half of the respondents (n=277, 54.3%) were illiterate or did not have any institutional education. Satisfactory ideas on different communicable & non-communicable diseases found. Different respondents replied positively about knowledge on different health issues that are related to different diseases. Here 84% respondents knew about water borne diseases, 81% respondents knew about transmission of water borne diseases and 78% respondents knew about signs-symptoms of water borne diseases. 68% respondents replied A, B complex, C, D, E and K are the examples of vitamins, 24% respondents mentioned about K, Fe, Zn and Cu where only 8% respondents told about Na, I, Ca and electrolyte. 72% respondents replied the correct option regarding water borne diseases like Cholera, Tyohoid, Diarrhea, Dysentary, Giardia as example; 69% respondents told the correct option regarding Mosquito Borne Diseases like Malaria, Dengue, Chikunguniya as example; 39% respondents mentioned the correct option regarding Sexually Transmitted Diseases like Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, HIV, Viral Hepatitis as example; 49% respondents replied the correct option regarding Respiratory Tract Infections like Pneumonia, Influenza, Covid-19, TB as example where 39% respondents gave examples of other communicable diseases which were correct. Again when the respondents were asked about examples of non-communicable diseases, 48% replied about Diabetes, Hypertension, MI, Dyslipidemia, Stroke, Osteoporosis. Conclusion: The respondents also mentioned about common communicable & non-communicable diseases in their particular area or camp, diseases they were suffering from and also prevalence of different communicable and non communicable diseases was observed. Policymakers and healthcare providers can enhance health outcomes and facilitate disease prevention among displaced populations by comprehending the factors that impact disease awareness and behaviors. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge the limitations of the study and take them into account when interpreting the results.

The Rohingya refugee crisis: political and humanitarian perspectives

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the prevailing Rohingya refugee crisis from political and humanitarian perspectives and explores the political and humanitarian aspects of the Rohingya refugee crisis.Design/methodology/approachRelevant literature has been reviewed for conceptual understanding. This study is descriptive and qualitative in nature and based on secondary sources of data.FindingsThe main causes of the Rohingya crisis such as political and humanitarian aspects. Issues such as discrimination and homelessness, and national security concerns that regional politics scapegoated the Rohingya to exacerbate regional tensions. Moreover, armed conflicts, political radicalization, security concerns, human rights violations and low media attention compared to other displaced families have made the future of the Rohingyas very uncertain.Practical implicationsThe Rohingya crisis has far-reaching implications for domestic and regional politics as well as for relations with major world powers. In the context of regional security and geopolitics, this study provides insight into the polarization and politicization of the Rohingya minority.Originality/valueThis research offers a vital exploration of the Rohingya refugee crisis, delving into its multifaceted political and humanitarian dimensions, contributing fresh insights to address a pressing global concern.

Rohingya Refugee Crisis: Emerging Threats to Bangladesh as a Host Country?

This paper highlights the security challenges that the Rohingya crisis poses to the host nation Bangladesh. As a humanitarian gesture, the Bangladesh government allowed Rohingya minority people in the south-eastern part of its land. Unfortunately, these large numbers of displaced people misuse the blessing and engage in various terrorist activities, fraudulence, smuggling, including drugs, arms, human trafficking, and so on. Based on secondary sources and interviewing Law Enforcement officials of Ukhia, Cox’s Bazar, the paper aims to identify and analyze the notions of diversified intimidation in Bangladesh. Since the Rohingya camps are close to Bangladesh, Myanmar, and India’s border areas, the uncertainty produced by the crisis is also becoming a vital threat to regional stability. It generates ambiguity regarding the extent to which the victims are responsible for scaring the nation that has sheltered them. Unfortunately, the local populations became xenophobic due to the refugees’ uncertain repatriation. It is crucial to relocate the Rohingya refugees rationally and diplomatically within a short time to assure Bangladesh’s safety and security as a host country. Meanwhile, the Government of Bangladesh should improve surveillance in the camps. Besides, the enormous number of refugees should be engaged in some productive work to keep them aside from participating in criminal activities.

The Conflict, Climate Change, and Displacement Nexus Revisited: The Protracted Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Bangladesh

This article examines the relationships between conflict, climate change, and disaster in forced displacement contexts. We present these nexus dynamics through the case of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh who are exposed to climatic hazards and other vulnerabilities that threaten their lives and livelihoods. Having fled persecution by the Myanmar military, Rohingya refugees face a range of conflict- and climate-related risks, both in the overcrowded and disaster-prone camps in Cox's Bazar and on the island of Bhasan Char where Bangladeshi authorities have relocated tens of thousands of people. The protracted refugee crisis has exacerbated social tensions between the Rohingya and host communities; limited access to resources and exposure to significant hazards that exacerbate conflict-induced displacement challenges. This paper contributes to the nascent literature on the region's conflict, climate change, and disaster displacement nexus by examining how cascading risks and state fragility contribute to increased instability. The article demonstrates the need for a more nuanced understanding of how conflict-induced displacement leads to new threats and vulnerabilities in hazard-prone environments.

Protracted Rohingya Crisis in Bangladesh: Are National and Regional Security at Stake?

The study examines the stimulating impact on national and regional security issues, steaming from concurrent major Rohingya humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh. Being a resource scarce and moderate level GDP earning country, Bangladesh cannot accommodate this huge population of 1.3 Million for indefinite time. Therefore, this study aims to analyze whether any real threat is looming at national and regional level security of Bangladesh as well as for South Asia region from this crisis by using qualitative research approach. With the theoretical account of new “Non-Traditional Security” approach, this paper attempts to explore five areas of security concerns- military, political, economic, social, and environmental emanating from Rohingya refugee crisis at all three levels of local, national and regional security. The data collection methods used in conducting the research include in-depth interviews, KII, observation like primary data collecting techniques along with extensive content analysis of secondary data. Empirical data analysis implies that there is rising concern towards internal security of Bangladesh as it converting into a protracted one in nature with passing days. Similarly many South Asian countries which sheltered Rohingyas are also in view of South Asian region’s security is at stake from different aspects. No progress has been achieved yet even though Bangladesh is trying its best to resolve the problem, which is certainly endangering its own security measures. So, the study recommends among others that more holistic regional approach is indispensable in resolving this protracted refugee crisis as soon as possible.