Escalating Crisis: Rohingya Refugees Face Perilous Journeys
More than 5,300 Rohingya refugees have embarked on dangerous maritime journeys from Bangladesh and Myanmar this year, with over 600 reported missing or having lost their lives, according to recent reports. The United Nations agencies have expressed deep concern over the increasing number of people attempting these perilous sea voyages in search of safety and protection.
The situation in refugee camps in Bangladesh is marked by limited assistance and opportunities, which has pushed many to seek alternatives. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar continues to worsen due to escalating conflict and funding cuts. These factors are contributing to a growing number of Rohingya individuals taking risky sea journeys.
In recent years, more than two-thirds of those embarking on these dangerous journeys have been women and children, highlighting the vulnerability of this population. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have expressed profound sadness over the recent tragic capsizing of a boat off the coast of Malaysia and Thailand. This incident involved up to 70 people from Myanmar, including Rohingya refugees.
According to reports, 13 individuals were safely brought ashore by Malaysian authorities, while at least 21 others have been confirmed dead. Among the deceased are two teenage Rohingya girls who were recovered by Thai authorities. The fate of the remaining passengers remains unknown.
UNHCR and IOM have commended the efforts of Malaysian authorities and local communities in rescuing those from the capsized boat. They have also pledged to support local authorities by providing assistance to the survivors following their disembarkation.
The agencies are deeply concerned about the potential loss of life as at least one other boat is reportedly still at sea, carrying an additional 230 people. Saving lives and rescuing those in distress at sea is a humanitarian imperative and a longstanding duty under international maritime law.
UNHCR and IOM continue to call for increased resources and stronger regional and international efforts to enhance search-and-rescue capacity and ensure safe access to asylum. This is crucial to prevent further tragedies and protect vulnerable populations.
The death toll from the capsized Rohingya migrant boat has risen to 26 off the coasts of Malaysia and Thailand. Greater regional and international support is needed to achieve a political solution to the crisis and end the hostilities in Myanmar.
Until the underlying causes of forced displacement in Myanmar are addressed, refugees will continue to undertake dangerous journeys in search of safety. UNHCR and IOM are working with national authorities to strengthen protection and solutions for refugees, migrants, and stateless people moving along key routes, including South and South-East Asia.
This “route-based approach” aims to save lives, protect people, and reduce harm, while supporting states in effectively managing mixed movements. The focus remains on creating safer pathways and ensuring that those fleeing persecution can find refuge without resorting to perilous sea crossings.