The Government of Japan and UNICEF have signed a new agreement to deliver life-saving support to Rohingya refugee children and their families in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
Under the agreement, Japan will provide US$1.4 million to benefit more than 56,500 refugees, including over 36,000 children. The assistance will fund critical services in education, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), nutrition and health.
Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi and UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh Rana Flowers confirmed the contribution at the signing ceremony.
They said the support reflects Japan’s more than 70-year partnership with UNICEF and its strong commitment to human security, universal health coverage and the humanitarian–development–peace nexus.
Now in its ninth year, the Rohingya crisis remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted humanitarian emergencies.
Overcrowding, disease outbreaks, malnutrition and limited access to learning continue to put children at serious risk. Japan and UNICEF stressed that the camps must remain safe until refugees can return home safely and voluntarily.
Ambassador SAIDA said the new agreement comes at a time of declining global funding. “This aid focuses on critical services such as education, WASH, nutrition and health. It reflects Japan’s long-standing partnership with UNICEF and our firm commitment to human security. We believe this support will strengthen the resilience and dignity of Rohingya refugees and host communities,” he said.
Rana Flowers said Rohingya children face daily risks, from illness and malnutrition to interrupted learning.
“Japan’s support will help keep children healthy and in school. It will promote skills development and give families the tools to care for their youngest children. At a time of shrinking resources, this partnership is vital for children’s survival and future,” she said.
UNICEF will expand access to the Myanmar Curriculum on Bhasan Char. It will also support formal education and skills training for adolescents in Cox’s Bazar.
The programme will strengthen safe water supply systems and sanitation facilities to reduce outbreaks of cholera, dengue and other diseases. Families will receive hygiene supplies, including soap and menstrual hygiene materials.
In line with Japan’s advocacy for Universal Health Coverage, UNICEF will scale up services to prevent and treat child malnutrition. It will also enhance maternal and newborn care, including services at the Newborn Stabilisation Unit on Bhasan Char and primary health centres in Cox’s Bazar.
Japan remains a longstanding partner of UNICEF in Bangladesh. Since August 2017, Japan has contributed more than US$250 million to UN agencies and NGOs for the Rohingya response in Bangladesh. Of that amount, nearly US$47 million has supported Rohingya children and families through UNICEF.
UNICEF said it will ensure strong visibility and transparent use of Japan’s contribution while maximising its impact for children.
