ASEAN lawmakers call for urgent regional action to prevent Rohingya food crisis

The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights has called on Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the global community to urgently address the worsening Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh, warning of a looming humanitarian disaster.

In a statement issued on April 9, APHR highlighted that more than one million Rohingya refugees living in camps primarily in Cox’s Bazar are at serious risk of hunger as funding shortages deepen. The World Food Programme has cautioned that its current resources may only sustain food assistance until November 2026, largely due to declining contributions from donors such as United States Agency for International Development.

To cope with limited funds, WFP recently introduced a Targeting and Prioritization Exercise (TPE), which categorizes refugees based on vulnerability. Under this system, around 17% of refugees identified as “food insecure” receive only USD 7 per person, while approximately one-third classified as “extremely food insecure” receive USD 12.

Growing frustration over reduced food rations has already sparked protests within the camps. At the same time, deteriorating living conditions have contributed to a rise in criminal activities, including trafficking, kidnapping, and drug smuggling. The closure of learning centers has further exposed children to increased risks of child labor and early marriage.

APHR stressed that safe and voluntary repatriation remains impossible due to ongoing persecution and human rights violations in Myanmar. With the refugee population continuing to grow due to new arrivals and births, the need for sustained humanitarian support is becoming more urgent.

The organization urged ASEAN, its member states, and international actors including China to take immediate steps, such as establishing a regional humanitarian fund, increasing aid through WFP and partner agencies, and strengthening protection measures against trafficking, child labor, and gender-based violence.

APHR also called for continued international support to ensure accountability for alleged war crimes and genocide committed against the Rohingya population.

Additionally, Bangladesh has been encouraged to expand regulated livelihood opportunities for refugees, including sector-specific work permits, to reduce dependence on aid. Authorities were also urged to maintain protection standards and restore access to essential services such as education and healthcare.

With no long-term solution in sight, over one million Rohingya refugees remain trapped in overcrowded camps, facing uncertainty over food security and their future. APHR emphasized that urgent, coordinated international action is essential to prevent a deepening humanitarian crisis.