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Speaking in Geneva on Tuesday, UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch warned that sharp reductions in humanitarian and development funding are putting essential services at risk for one of the world\u2019s largest refugee populations.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe generous support from Bangladesh and the international community has been critical<\/strong> in meeting their basic needs and providing protection,\u201d he told journalists.\u00a0<\/p>\n The largest influx of Rohingya refugees occurred in August 2017, when around 750,000 people fled violence in Myanmar\u2019s Rakhine State and crossed into Bangladesh. UNHCR noted that support from Bangladesh and donors has been vital in meeting basic needs and providing protection ever since.<\/p>\n The agency\u2019s appeal comes amid growing global instability and competing humanitarian crises that have stretched aid budgets worldwide.<\/p>\n Last month, the United Nations and its partners, working alongside the Government of Bangladesh, launched an appeal for $710.5 million to meet the most urgent needs of Rohingya refugees and host communities in 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Despite increasing needs, the appeal is 26 per cent lower than last year\u2019s funding request, reflecting what aid agencies describe as a \u201chyper-prioritised\u201d response focused on the most critical needs.<\/p>\n Since 2017, humanitarian funding has helped sustain food assistance, healthcare, education and protection services. However, UNHCR warned that significant needs remain and conditions could worsen without continued support.<\/p>\n Rohingya refugees remain largely reliant on aid, with limited opportunities to earn an income. Vulnerable groups \u2013 including women and girls, older people and persons with disabilities \u2013 are particularly affected by funding shortfalls. The challenges have also intensified for around 150,000 new arrivals who have fled renewed violence in Rakhine state since early 2024.<\/p>\n Blocked humanitarian access and funding shortages leave communities without food, clean water, and healthcare.<\/p>\n UNHCR said ongoing conflict, persecution and insecurity inside Myanmar continue to prevent the safe return of refugees.<\/p>\nFunding pressures mount<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Fading hopes of return<\/strong><\/h2>\n