UN aid efforts are in jeopardy following funding reductions announced by major donors, including the United States and several European nations.
In Cox’s Bazar, an IOM staff member assess damages to refugee shelters after torrential rains and landslides. (file photo)
Frontlines of climate change
Mr. Guterres also highlighted the dire conditions in the camps, worsened by climate change.
“These camps – and the communities that host them – are on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Summers are scorching, and the chance of fires skyrocket. In the cyclone and monsoon seasons, floods and dangerous landslides destroy homes and lives,” he said.
Beyond immediate aid, he stressed the need for education, skills training and opportunities for the refugees, warning that many families feel they have no option but to risk perilous sea journeys in search of a better future.
Iftar with refugees
Mr. Guterres ended his visit to Cox’s Bazar by participating in an Iftar meal with Rohingya refugees.
“Fasting and having an Iftar together with you are proof of my deep respect for your religion and your culture,” he said.
“This is the holy month of Ramadan, the month of solidarity. It would be unacceptable that in the month of solidarity, the international community would reduce the support to the Rohingyas in Bangladesh,” he added, stressing that he would do everything to ensure it does not happen.