Speaking in Geneva on Tuesday, UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch warned that sharp reductions in humanitarian and development funding are putting essential services for one of the world’s largest refugee populations at risk.
“The generous The support of Bangladesh and the international community has been essential. to meet their basic needs and provide them with protection,” he told reporters.
The largest influx of Rohingya refugees occurred in August 2017, when around 750,000 people fled violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state and crossed into Bangladesh. UNHCR noted that support from Bangladesh and donors has been vital in meeting basic needs and providing protection since then.
Financing pressures increase
The agency’s appeal comes amid growing global instability and competing humanitarian crises that have strained aid budgets around the world.
Last month, the United Nations and its partners, in collaboration with the Government of Bangladesh, launched an appeal to raise $710.5 million to meet the most urgent needs of Rohingya refugees and host communities by 2026.
Despite the growing needs, the appeal is 26 percent smaller than last year’s funding request, reflecting what aid agencies describe as a “hyper-prioritized” response focused on the most critical needs.
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.
Rohingya refugees remain highly dependent on aid and have limited income earning opportunities. Vulnerable groups – including women and girls, older people and people with disabilities – are especially affected by funding gaps. Challenges have also intensified for around 150,000 new arrivals who have fled renewed violence in Rakhine state since early 2024.
Blocked humanitarian access and funding shortages leave communities without food, clean water and healthcare.
Hopes of returning fade
UNHCR said ongoing conflict, persecution and insecurity within Myanmar continue to prevent the safe return of refugees.
As prospects for repatriation diminish, More Rohingya are turning to dangerous sea voyages in search of opportunities elsewhere in the region..
According to the agency, 2025 has been the deadliest year on record for such crossings, with nearly 900 Rohingya refugees reported dead or missing in the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
UNHCR highlighted that maintaining only minimal levels of humanitarian assistance could have more serious and costly consequences in the future.
“Until the conflict and violence cease, the international community must continue to stand in solidarity with Myanmar refugees, including Rohingya refugees, and their host communities,” Baloch said, renewing the agency’s call for humanitarian support and efforts to enable the voluntary, safe and dignified return of refugees when conditions permit.