Rohingya must get assurances on safety before returning to Myanmar

Tomorrow, the first of 2,200 extremely vulnerable Rohingya refugees face the prospect of being repatriated to Myanmar, where they fled brutal violence a year ago (Rohingya refugees flee camps in fear of forced repatriation to ‘unsafe’ Myanmar, 14 November). No refugee should be encouraged to return until their safety can be assured and they have the means to live a dignified life. Despite very difficult and cramped conditions in the camps in Bangladesh, many Rohingya refugees tell us that they would prefer to stay than risk their lives returning. The issue of safety must be addressed, as well as guarantees that returning families would be supported to rebuild their homes and lives. This requires further assurances that there are clear mechanisms in place to help ensure safe returns.
Janet Symes
Head of Asia, Cafod

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