Rohyinga Refugee Camps in Southern Bangladesh 🇧🇩

01/12/18 04:59

November 2017: Returning to Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

In November 2017, I found myself back in southern Bangladesh, once again visiting the ever-expanding refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, where thousands of Rohingya refugees continued to flee violence and persecution in Myanmar. Every visit to Cox’s Bazar is a powerful experience, but this particular trip was especially impactful. Walking through the vast camps, one can’t help but be struck by the sheer scale of the response required to provide even the most basic services—shelter, water, sanitation, food, health, and education—to hundreds of thousands of displaced people. The logistical challenges of coordinating efforts across so many different humanitarian actors are immense, yet the resilience and dedication of those involved remain truly inspiring.

While the camp itself is overwhelming in its size and complexity, what I always cherish most about visiting Cox’s Bazar are the human experiences—the personal stories of survival and hope shared by the refugees, as well as the camaraderie with my fellow humanitarian colleagues. I continue to meet some of the most dedicated and passionate individuals working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the refugees, often in incredibly difficult circumstances. The energy and commitment of the aid workers, coupled with the perseverance of the displaced communities, is a constant reminder of the profound impact that humanitarian work can have.

This visit was also significant in a different way, as we had the opportunity to host a delegation of European politicians who were visiting the camp as part of an advocacy campaign. The goal was to provide them with firsthand exposure to the scale of the crisis and the challenges faced by both the refugees and the organisations working to support them. I was heavily involved in organising the visit, ensuring that the delegation gained a comprehensive understanding of the situation on the ground and the urgent need for sustained international support and funding. It was a rewarding experience to see policymakers engaging directly with refugees and humanitarian workers, bringing much-needed attention to the crisis.

One of the highlights of this visit was the journey back to Dhaka, which I was fortunate enough to make by helicopter. The aerial perspective was truly breathtaking, offering a unique opportunity to see Bangladesh’s diverse landscapes from above. As we flew over Chittagong, the country’s second-largest city and a major port hub, I was captivated by the contrast of the bustling urban centre with the serene waters of the Karnaphuli River, weaving through the city. The industrial zones, shipping yards, and vibrant urban sprawl were impressive sights that stood in stark contrast to the rural areas we had just left behind.

Approaching Dhaka, the scale of the capital city became even more apparent from the air. The dense urban fabric stretched as far as the eye could see, interspersed with pockets of greenery and the intricate maze of waterways that define the city. Seeing Dhaka from above highlighted its vastness and the incredible energy of a place that serves as the economic and cultural heartbeat of Bangladesh. The flight provided a fascinating juxtaposition between the rural, refugee-laden landscapes of Cox’s Bazar, the industrial vibrancy of Chittagong, and the overwhelming urban density of Dhaka.

My time in Cox’s Bazar during this visit reaffirmed my deep respect for the people affected by the crisis and those working to support them. The experience of interacting with refugees, sharing moments of connection, and contributing to efforts to bring their plight to the attention of global decision-makers was both humbling and motivating. The helicopter journey over Bangladesh’s diverse landscapes was a poignant reminder of the country’s complexity—its beauty, its challenges, and the resilience of its people.

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Rohyinga Refugee Camps in Southern Bangladesh 🇧🇩