Mohammad Zamir, Former Ambassador and Expert on International Relations : Bangladesh has provided shelter to lakhs of Rohingya refugees without question because of its humanitarian, thoughtful heart. However, sometimes we are naive as well. This is the reason why we give shelter to them.
The world is gradually shutting its doors to refugees. Thus, there is greater pressure on us now to accept them. Where developed nations have grown indifferent towards refugees, we have come forward to take them in.
However, this expectation will be resolved in the crisis. Everything possible should be done for those living humanitarian lives.
We, as a people, suffered a lot during ’71. Many became refugees but gradually they returned. Why did they return? Because they knew that there will be no problems with their security. They will be safe and secure if they returned. Bangabandhu introduced a powerful process in that regard. If Rohingyas too, are to return back to their homes in Myanmar, a strong process has to be launched. They have to be assured and an environment created for their confidence to grow.
Rohingyas have been fleeing to our country for a long time. We have been taking care of them and it was not a mistake to do so. However, the violation of human rights was committed by Myanmar and they should be brought to justice.
A deal has been signed between Myanmar and the United Nation’s human rights watchdog UNHCR. But according to the media, the organization has alleged that Myanmar is trying to delay the repatriation process, as well as preventing UNHCR teams to survey all regions of Myanmar. That is why the UN secretary general and World Bank president came to Bangladesh. They will observe unrestricted what is actually happening and are helping Bangladesh as much as possible. A UN session will be held on September. Through G7, Justin Trudeau has also taken steps. Let’s see what happens.
Based on an interview by Ashiq Rahman, translated by Abrar Hussain