The European Rohingya Council (ERC) works to ensure that the situation, rights and aspirations of the Rohingya people remain visible in international policy discussions. Rohingya communities have endured decades of discrimination, denial of citizenship, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, forced displacement and repeated violence. International advocacy is therefore a central part of ERC’s work.
ERC engages with governments, international organisations, diplomatic representatives, human rights institutions, civil society organisations, researchers, media and other relevant actors. Through these engagements, ERC seeks to communicate the experiences and concerns of Rohingya communities directly and to encourage policies that protect Rohingya rights and address the causes of their persecution and displacement.
Bringing Rohingya perspectives to decision-makers
Effective advocacy requires that decisions concerning the Rohingya are informed by Rohingya voices. ERC works to present community perspectives in meetings, consultations, conferences, public discussions and written submissions. This includes drawing attention to immediate protection concerns as well as longer-term questions concerning citizenship, equality, security, justice, education and the conditions required for a safe and dignified future.
ERC also works to strengthen communication between Rohingya communities in Europe and institutions that influence policy on Myanmar, humanitarian protection, refugees, international justice and human rights. Our objective is not simply to describe a crisis, but to encourage sustained international engagement based on rights, responsibility and practical action.
Protection and durable solutions
ERC advocates for the protection of Rohingya people wherever they are at risk, including those remaining in Myanmar and those living as refugees or displaced persons. Humanitarian assistance is essential, but humanitarian support alone cannot resolve the political and legal causes of long-term displacement. ERC therefore emphasises the importance of durable solutions grounded in rights, safety and dignity.
Any discussion of return must take account of the conditions that caused displacement in the first place. ERC supports approaches that place the safety, informed choice and fundamental rights of Rohingya people at the centre of decisions affecting their future. A sustainable solution requires meaningful guarantees of rights and protection rather than temporary arrangements that leave the underlying problems unresolved.
Working with partners
International advocacy is strongest when communities, institutions and responsible partners work together. ERC seeks constructive cooperation with organisations and individuals who share a commitment to human rights, accountability and peaceful solutions. We also encourage international actors to consult Rohingya representatives consistently rather than only during moments of crisis.
Through continued engagement, public advocacy and cooperation, ERC aims to help build the political attention and international commitment necessary for lasting change. The Rohingya issue must remain a matter of international responsibility until the rights, security and future of the Rohingya people are effectively protected.