Economy
US Reaffirms Support for Rohingya Genocide Survivors
The United States has reiterated its unwavering support for the survivors of the Rohingya genocide, as the nation commemorated the anniversary of Myanmar’s brutal campaign in 2017.
In a statement marking Rohingya Genocide Remembrance Day, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken emphasized Washington’s commitment to providing essential aid to Rohingya communities and others impacted by the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and surrounding regions.
“The United States stands with the survivors of the Rohingya genocide and remains steadfast in delivering life-saving assistance,” Blinken declared. He highlighted that the continued humanitarian crisis and human rights violations in Myanmar have compounded the suffering of numerous ethnic and religious minority groups, with the Rohingya bearing the brunt of these abuses.
Blinken noted that over the past seven years, the U.S. has contributed nearly $2.4 billion in humanitarian aid while meticulously documenting the atrocities inflicted on the Rohingya and other civilians.
“Our commitment to supporting the people of Myanmar in their pursuit of a democratic, inclusive, and peaceful future is unshakeable. We also urge all parties to safeguard civilians from harm,” Blinken added.
Since August 25, 2017, Bangladesh has sheltered over one million forcibly displaced Rohingyas in the Cox’s Bazar district, most of whom fled following Myanmar’s military crackdown. The United Nations has described this crackdown as a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing,” while other human rights organizations have labeled it “genocide.”
Despite Myanmar’s agreement to repatriate the Rohingyas, not a single individual has returned over the past seven years, with previous repatriation efforts faltering due to the Rohingyas’ deep-seated mistrust regarding their safety and security in Rakhine State.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
