Adopt reconciliation to resolve Rohingya crisis: Bangladesh to Myanmar

Bangladesh has urged Myanmar to adopt clearly defined reconciliation strategies through a whole-of-society approach with transparency and objectivity to resolve the protracted Rohingya crisis, reports news agency BSS.

“We believe reconciliation can be a critical enabler for resolving the Rohingya humanitarian crisis, the brunt of which we are bearing,” Bangladesh Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Masud Bin Momen said at the UN Security Council (UNSC) on Tuesday in New York.

The UNSC organised an open debate on “The Role of Reconciliation in Maintaining International Peace and Security” at the UN Headquarters.

Ambassador Masud emphasised the necessity of a robust enabling environment in Rakhine underpinned by dialogue between the Rohingyas, rest of Myanmar society and Myanmar authorities.

He called upon Myanmar to promote active participation of women and young people and ensure accountability and justice for serious violations of human international humanitarian law and human rights law.

In this context, the ambassador recalled Bangladesh’s successful experience of reconciliation in the Chittagong Hills Tracts in 1997 under the astute leadership of prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

He also mentioned Bangladesh’s contribution, through peacekeeping, to national and local reconciliation strategies in countries emerging from conflict.

The permanent representative also urged the UNSC to promote sustainable peace in Myanmar’s Rakhine state through reconciliation and reintegration of Rohingya community with Myanmar society.

The Security Council has to encourage Myanmar to address core grievances and ensure unhindered and safe passage of relevant humanitarian personnel and supplies to the Rakhine, he added.

The UN Secretary-General also spoke on the occasion stating that “no reconciliation without justice” will work.

The Open Debate was held under the Presidency of United Kingdom.