Brussels: The European Union has announced an allocation of £29 million to support humanitarian and development efforts in Myanmar and for Rohingya refugees. This financial aid is aimed at alleviating the ongoing humanitarian crises affecting these regions.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the EU has designated £15 million in humanitarian aid to assist communities affected by the conflict in Myanmar. An additional £14 million is allocated as development aid for Rohingya refugees and their host communities in Bangladesh and neighboring countries. The intensifying conflict in Myanmar, coupled with the earthquake earlier this year, has exacerbated the humanitarian needs, leading to a collapse of basic services and a sharp increase in hunger levels.
The EU's humanitarian contribution includes a significant portion of £12 million to support food and nutrition assistance in Myanmar. In Bangladesh, £2 million will enhance existing EU aid to the Rohingya refugees, focusing on food and nutrition as well. An extra £1 million is set aside for Rohingya refugees living in vulnerable conditions in other neighboring countries.
This new assistance complements nearly £50 million previously provided in humanitarian aid for the Myanmar crisis and its regional impact, including emergency funding for the earthquake response. Additionally, over £32 million has been allocated in humanitarian assistance to Bangladesh this year.
The development aid of £14 million aims to promote sustainability and self-reliance in the Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar, including support for skills and livelihoods development. The worsening situation has seen more than 136,000 new Rohingya refugees arriving in Cox's Bazar since January 2024, with many risking dangerous journeys to seek refuge in other countries.