5 Decades of Rohingya refugees’ crisis: A security quandary for Bangladesh

The Rohingya refugee crisis stems from Myanmar's 1982 citizenship law, which excluded the Rohingya from national identity, leaving them stateless. This persecuted Muslim minority has sought refuge in neighboring countries, primarily Bangladesh, since 1978. Over 10,000 Rohingya now live in Bangladesh’s makeshift camps, dependent on aid from the UN, the Bangladeshi government, and NGOs. However, their presence poses significant security challenges, including links to illicit activities, border security issues, environmental strain, and potential militancy, all of which burden Bangladesh’s limited resources and economy. The Bangladeshi government acknowledges the crisis as a serious threat to national security. This study explores the complexities of the Rohingya predicament, assessing its historical background and current implications for Bangladesh. Utilizing both primary and secondary data, the research includes surveys and in-depth interviews with local residents, NGO representatives, diplomats, and border security personnel. The analysis employs descriptive and analytical methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and its impact on Bangladesh's security landscape.