The Rohingya Refugee Crisis: Socio-Economic andEnvironmental Impacts on Bangladesh

Abstract

The influx of Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh has created a complex humanitarian crisis with far-reaching socio-economic and environmental consequences for the host communities. This study evaluates the impact of the arrival of over 688,000 Rohingya refugees in Cox's Bazar district since August 2017 on the indigenous Bangladeshi population. It highlights the significant strain on Bangladesh's resources, public services, and social cohesion due to the population increase. The establishment of overcrowded refugee camps has led to environmental degradation, including deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation. The contrasting ethnic, linguistic, and religious backgrounds of the Rohingya refugees and local communities have strained inter-group dynamics, fueling tensions and conflicts. While Bangladesh has demonstrated remarkable resilience in accommodating the refugees, the crisis has exacerbated economic and ecological burdens. The study examines policy alternatives and recommendations, emphasizing the need for enhanced screening procedures, domestic legal reforms, culturally appropriate mental health strategies, and environmental sustainability measures. It underscores the pivotal role of international collaboration, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic negotiations involving Myanmar, Bangladesh, and global entities to find durable solutions. Addressing the systematic persecution of the Rohingya population in Myanmar is crucial for resolving the crisis's root causes and fostering an inclusive society with equal access to dignity and opportunities for all.