For immediate release
ERC calls on Bangladesh to stop repatriation of Rohingya unless international protection is ensured
The European Rohingya Council (ERC) is deeply concerned by the recent announcement by Bangladesh and Myanmar to start repatriation in mid-November. During press conference on 31st October, Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Mr. Shahidul Haque announced, “we are looking forward to start the repatriation in mid-November.” There is no mention of international protections during repatriation and rebuilding of the lives of Rohingya in their homeland. There is also no mention of ensuring citizenships and rights, and accountability of the crimes committed by Myanmar security forces and extremist Rakhine. This is extremely shocking and worrying.
Forcing Rohingya into Myanmar while genocide is on-going is not only illegal but also unimaginable. The sufferings during and after the previous repatriations without rights and international protection guaranteed in 1978 and 1992 is still fresh in the memories of Rohingya survivors.
Therefore, ERC calls on the government of Bangladesh to stop repatriation of Rohingya unless international protection and citizenship rights are ensured. The accountability and justice for the genocidal crimes committed by Myanmar armed forces and extremist Rakhine must be addressed before any repatriation begins.
Media contact:
Dr. Hla Kyaw
Chairman of ERC
Email: chairman@theerc.eu
Tel.: +31 652 358 202
http://www.theerc.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/ERC-Repatriation-November-4-2018.pdf
