As the UN Secretary-General visits Bangladesh, ActionAid Bangladesh underlines the urgent need to address the escalating humanitarian crisis faced by Rohingya refugees, particularly women and girls. The decision of World Food Programme (WFP) to cut food assistance from USD 12.50 to USD 6 per person per month, effective 1 April 2025, will have catastrophic consequences. According to the WFP, this reduction, driven by severe funding shortfalls, will push over one million refugees below the survival threshold, worsening malnutrition, and health crises.
Women and girls are disproportionately affected by this drastic cut in food assistance. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, adolescent girls, and children are already at risk of severe malnutrition, which can lead to long-term health issues and increased mortality. The stress of food shortages also heightens the risk of gender-based violence (GBV), including domestic violence and exploitation. Compounding these challenges is the lack of adequate Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services, leaving women and girls without essential healthcare.
According to recent media reports, the reduction in food rations has already led to increased tensions and fear of a surge in crime within the camps. This further exacerbates the vulnerability of women and girls, who are often the most affected by such instability. Additionally, the international community’s failure to address the funding gap has left humanitarian agencies struggling to meet even the most basic needs of the refugees.
ActionAid Bangladesh calls for immediate action. We urge the international community to provide urgent funding to restore full food rations and ensure gender-responsive aid that prioritizes women and girls. Long-term solutions, including sustainable repatriation and resettlement plans, must also be developed to address the root causes of the crisis.
The Rohingya people cannot afford to be forgotten. As the UN Secretary-General focuses global attention on this crisis, we call for swift and compassionate action to protect the lives and dignity of over one million refugees, particularly women and girls.