Myanmar Verifies 300,000 Rohingyas, But Denies Identity and Delays Return
Myanmar recently announced that over 300,000 Rohingyas living in Bangladesh are former residents of Rakhine State. This statement came on August 17. Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs verified 308,797 people. These individuals were on a list of 828,824 submitted by Bangladesh.
However, Myanmar called these people “Bengalis.” They did not use the term “Rohingya.” This repeated denial of their ethnic identity causes deep concern. It also raises serious questions about Myanmar’s true intentions for their return.
Myanmar did not provide any timeline for repatriation. Instead, it stated that returns would only begin when the security situation improves. This uncertainty leaves hundreds of thousands of people in limbo.
About 700,000 Rohingyas fled to Bangladesh nine years ago. This happened after severe violence by the Myanmar military in Rakhine. Following this, Bangladesh signed a repatriation agreement with Myanmar. Hopes were high for a safe return.
But the situation in Myanmar has changed greatly. A civil war spread across the country after the 2021 military coup. The military has since lost control of various areas. The balance of power in Rakhine State has also shifted.
The Arakan Army is now a significant military and political force there. They have taken control of many key areas. This includes regions along the Bangladesh border, like Maungdaw.
This new reality creates big challenges for repatriation. The Myanmar government says it wants to take back the Rohingyas. Yet, it does not have effective control over many areas where they would likely return.
So, who will ensure the Rohingyas’ safety after they go back? Who will administer these areas? Who will guarantee their freedom of movement and citizenship rights? These questions were clearer nine years ago, but not anymore.
The Arakan Army has also faced accusations of persecuting Rohingyas. They are accused of restricting movement and forced recruitment. Myanmar’s military faces similar charges. This leaves Rohingyas with a very difficult choice for their future.
Bangladesh’s diplomatic approach is adapting to this new reality. Dhaka traditionally spoke only with the Myanmar government. But now, Bangladesh is working to establish dialogue between Myanmar authorities and the Arakan Army. This aims to create a stable environment in Rakhine.
Previous attempts to send Rohingyas back have failed. In 2018 and 2019, repatriation efforts stalled. Rohingyas refused to return without guarantees of security and citizenship. Myanmar has announced similar verification figures before, but without actual returns.
Identifying someone as a former resident does not mean conditions are safe for their return. It does not ensure a voluntary and dignified process. The current situation continues to show more verification than actual repatriation.
