COX’S BAZAR — In May 2026, the United Nations and its partners, working alongside the Government of Bangladesh, launched an appeal for $710.5 million to meet the most urgent needs of Rohingya refugees and host communities in 2026. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has appealed to the international community not to abandon the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh, most of them in camps in Cox’s Bazar.
UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch warned that sharp reductions in humanitarian and development funding are putting essential services at risk for one of the world’s largest refugee populations. "Until the conflict and violence stop, the international community must continue to stand in solidarity with refugees from Myanmar, including Rohingya refugees, and their host communities," Baloch said.
The 2026 funding appeal is 26 per cent lower than the 2025 funding request, reflecting what aid agencies describe as a “hyper-prioritised” response focused on the most critical needs. UNHCR warned that needs remain and conditions could worsen without continued support.
The largest influx of Rohingya refugees occurred in August 2017, when around 750,000 people fled violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State and crossed into Bangladesh. Around 150,000 new Rohingya arrivals have fled renewed violence in Rakhine State since early 2024.
Rohingya refugees remain largely reliant on aid, with limited opportunities to earn an income. Vulnerable groups – including women and girls, older people and persons with disabilities – are particularly affected by funding shortfalls. Blocked humanitarian access and funding shortages leave Rohingya communities without food, clean water, and healthcare.
Ongoing conflict, persecution and insecurity inside Myanmar continue to prevent the safe return of Rohingya refugees. As prospects for repatriation diminish, more Rohingya are resorting to dangerous sea journeys in search of opportunities elsewhere in the region. 2025 has been the deadliest year on record for Rohingya sea crossings, with nearly 900 Rohingya refugees reported dead or missing in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal.
"The generous support from Bangladesh and the international community has been critical in meeting their basic needs and providing protection," Baloch told journalists. UNHCR renewed its call for humanitarian support and efforts to enable the voluntary, safe and dignified return of Rohingya refugees when conditions allow.