The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Rohingyas in Bangladesh with a contribution of $5 million to the UNHCR.
This donation will focus on strengthening disability inclusion efforts, providing essential support to refugees with disabilities, and ensuring continued access to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking, according to a UNHCR press release.
“This generous contribution from the Republic of Korea comes at a crucial time, when the needs and vulnerabilities of Rohingya refugees continue to rise, especially for those with disabilities,” said Ivo Freijsen, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh.
“Amid devastating cuts to life-saving aid, we are most grateful for the steadfast support of the people and Government of Korea, which enables us to address critical needs and uphold refugees’ dignity and well-being in an increasingly uncertain time,” he added.
Since the large-scale exodus from Myanmar in August 2017, over 1.16 million Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char remain dependent on humanitarian assistance.
Additionally, renewed violence and human rights abuses in Myanmar’s Rakhine state in 2024 have forced another 150,000 refugees to flee.
“The Republic of Korea’s humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh has remained steadfast,” Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh PARK Young Sik said.
“The total contribution of $10 million, along with a second donation of a substantial quantity of rice, underscores our firm and enduring commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts for the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh,” he added.
The $5 million contribution will support refugees with disabilities through early identification, rehabilitation, assistive devices, mental health support, and accessible facilities such as bathing cubicles and latrines.
LPG provision will continue to support refugees’ food security and health, reducing reliance on firewood and decreasing protection risks for women and girls.
It has also contributed to environmental sustainability by helping reduce deforestation and regreen areas in and around the camps.
Eight years into the Rohingya refugee crisis, Bangladesh remains home to 1.16 million Rohingya refugees, with their ongoing need for support and assistance.
