Insights

3,500 Rohingya Muslims flee Rakhine fearing violence

At least 3,500 of Rohingya Muslims have fled and crossed into Bangladesh, after a large deployment of Myanmar’s troops to Rakhine State. Refugee camps are now overflowing in the Cox Bazaar area near the Naf river, which divides the two countries. The increase in military troops to Rakhine has drawn criticism from the United Nations (UN) who have warned that the deployment is a “cause for major concern.” Rakhine has witnessed bloody violence for almost a year and the Myanmar authorities have been accused of crimes which may amount to ethnic cleansing of the Muslim minority Rohingya group. The UN has documented mass gang rape, killings – including of children and babies – violent beatings and frequent disappearance of individuals. Myanmar has long faced criticism over its treatment of the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine.

Rakhine is home to one of the largest stateless populations in the world, in spite of their belief that they are indigenous to Rakhine. The Rohingya have been called the most persecuted people in the world - at this moment in time - and are denied Myanmarese citizenship. Physical violence against them is common, with hundreds killed and thousands of houses belonging to them burned down since 2012. Reports of sexual abuse by the police and even the army have also been rife, with many Rohingya denied access to healthcare, means of employment and food. One hundred thousand people, Buddhists and Muslims, are estimated to be displaced as a result of the violence between the two groups.

Those operating or residing Myanmar are advised to be aware of the ongoing and extreme tensions between the national military and rebel insurgent groups, concentrated along the border. Avoid areas of tension, including Rakhine, due to the credible risk of kidnap and violence. Violent clashes between warring factions are likely to continue. Monitor local media for more information concerning the fighting and follow all directives issued by local authorities.