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Rohingya Ask UN: Where is Justice Amid Continued Violence and Aid Cuts?

Update A Call to Justice: The Rohingya People's Plea to the UN At a pivotal United Nations General Assembly conference held on September 30, 2025, members of the Rohingya community voiced their urgent appeals regarding the ongoing violence and humanitarian crises faced by their community in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Rohingya speakers passionately questioned world leaders about the absence of justice and support for their plight as over one million refugees suffer in camps in Bangladesh, striving for dignity and safety. A Heart-Wrenching Reminder of Suffering During the conference, Maung Sawyeddollah, founder of the Rohingya Student Network, addressed his community in a powerful livestream speech from New York City, declaring, “You are not forgotten. The world may seem blind to your suffering, but Rohingya see you.” His poignant reminder encapsulated a harsh reality — eight years post the genocide disclosure, many still ask, “Where is justice for the Rohingya?” Sawyeddollah emphasized the systemic brutality faced by the Rohingya, pointing to a photograph of victims from a recent drone strike, part of an ongoing violent campaign against their people. Highlighting Humanitarian Crises Wai Wai Nu, executive director of the Women’s Peace Network-Myanmar, echoed similar sentiments. She characterized the meeting as a historic moment and underscored the pressing need for humanitarian aid that has been obstructed from reaching Rakhine State. “We need to save Rohingya inside Rakhine state,” she stated, reinforcing the conference's objective to mobilize sufficient support and aid for the beleaguered Rohingya populations. Massive Aid Cuts Intensify Suffering The session was severely overshadowed by the grim news of “massive aid cuts” exacerbating current conditions. UN Secretary-General’s Chef de Cabinet Earle Courtenay Rattray highlighted that humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya community has been insufficient, resulting in deteriorating circumstances in camps that already face limitations on supplies and services. Bangladesh’s leadership echoed the urgent need for international support, stating that the country can no longer shoulder the burden of hosting such a significant refugee population alone. The Road to Accountability and Justice Sadly, despite efforts by many countries to address the crisis, a cohesive international strategy remains elusive. Various outside voices call for targeted sanctions against military authorities in Myanmar and echo support for a global arms embargo to combat the violence perpetrated against the Rohingya. There is a consensus that immediate international action is critical for disaster relief and preventative measures to uphold dignity and human rights. Diverse Perspectives Need Unity An essential aspect of the continuing Rohingya crisis is the severe human rights violations perpetrated against this marginalized group. Human Rights Watch, in a statement prior to the UN conference, underscored these ongoing violations, calling for UN members to refrain from endorsing the unsafe repatriation of Rohingya to Myanmar until concrete measures ensure their safety and citizenship rights. This reflects a growing understanding of the need for accountability at the international level and against the military junta in Myanmar. A Coordinated Approach is Crucial While notable global figures, including representatives from the United States and the United Kingdom, reiterated their commitments to aid and social justice, tangible solutions remain imperative. As noted by various leaders, the call for cohesive action and collaborative international efforts is urgent to end the ongoing plight of Rohingya communities. Hope and Resilience Amid Adversity Despite immense challenges, the Rohingya remain hopeful for a future where they can safely return to their homes. Their calls for justice and accountability serve as a reminder of the resilience of human spirit amidst profound suffering. The UN and its member states must not turn a blind eye to these desperate needs and demands for justice, as this could be a turning point in advocating for lasting change. Take Action for Rohingya Now This ongoing crisis reflects the collective responsibility we all share as global citizens. It is time to amplify our voices and demand justice and support for vulnerable communities like the Rohingya. Engaging in advocacy, raising awareness, donating to humanitarian aid organizations, and holding our governments accountable are steps we can take to make a meaningful difference. Let us unite in compassion and action to bring hope to those who desperately need it.