Bangladesh Angered by Myanmar’s Submission in Rohingya Genocide Case

The Government of Bangladesh has expressed deep concern over Myanmar’s recent submission in the Gambia versus Myanmar case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday (23 January) evening, Bangladesh highlighted that Myanmar has attempted to portray the Rohingya as ‘Bengalis,’ framing them as illegal immigrants and a security threat. This, according to Bangladesh, is an effort to evade responsibility for the horrific ‘clearance operations’ of 2016–17.

The statement emphasized that the Rohingya are a distinct ethnic group who have resided in Arakan for centuries. Their name derives from ‘Rohang’ or ‘Roshang,’ which later became part of their self-identification. Their history, culture, language, and social practices are deeply linked with Rakhine, and their presence in pre-independence Burma’s political and social framework is well-documented. The 1982 Citizenship Law enacted by the Myanmar government excluded the Rohingya from the state framework. Subsequently, their voting rights were gradually stripped, leaving them completely disenfranchised in the 2015 elections, and eventually rendering them stateless following their displacement from Rakhine in 2016–17.

Bangladesh pointed out that although the Rohingya language shares some similarities with the regional language of Chittagong, it remains distinct from Bengali. Labeling them as ‘Bengali’ is a denial of their self-identification and part of an ongoing campaign of ethnic erasure.

The statement also recalled that under the 1978 bilateral repatriation agreement, the Rohingya were recognized as ‘lawful residents’ and guaranteed equal rights and social inclusion. However, over the past eight years, Myanmar has taken no effective measures to facilitate their return to Rakhine. Even under the 2017–18 bilateral agreement, repatriation has been delayed under various pretexts. This pattern may be seen as evidence of intent to destroy the Rohingya population.

Bangladesh also rejected claims made during a diplomatic briefing by Myanmar’s Foreign Minister on 6 July 2023, which alleged that ‘half a million Bengalis’ had taken refuge in Rakhine during Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Bangladesh clarified that Rakhine’s population in 1971 was below 1.7 million, and any large refugee influx would have drawn international attention. Subsequent censuses have shown no such evidence.

Finally, the Government of Bangladesh urged Myanmar and Rakhine authorities to recognize the Rohingya as an integral part of the state, ensure their security, dignity, and equal rights, and create conditions for their safe and voluntary repatriation. Bangladesh also called on the international community to avoid misleading narratives and work toward a genuine resolution of the crisis.