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The repatriation of Rohingya refugees hinges on achieving stability in Myanmar's Rakhine state, according to Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman. Speaking in parliament, Rahman emphasized that the complex and sensitive international issue requires a conducive environment in Rakhine before any significant progress can be made.

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Repatriation depends on Rakhine state's stability.

Rahman outlined three key factors influencing the pace of resolution: the security situation in Rakhine, the level of international pressure, and crucially, the goodwill of the Myanmar authorities. He stressed that forced repatriation under unsafe conditions is not feasible under international law, especially given the ongoing ethnic conflict and war in the region. "Since ethnic conflict and war have persisted in Rakhine for a long time, repatriation cannot be forced or carried out in unsafe conditions under international law," he stated.

Despite these challenges, the Bangladeshi government remains committed to facilitating dialogue to foster stability. Preparations are reportedly in the final stages for safe and sustainable repatriation, contingent on favorable conditions. The ultimate goal, Rahman affirmed, is the permanent, safe, and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya Muslims. He noted that while no specific timeframe can be provided, the government aims to take the right steps at the right time.

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The Rohingya repatriation -- and resolution of the broader crisis -- depends largely on the security situation in Rakhine.

Addressing the historical handling of the crisis, Rahman criticized the former Awami League government for focusing on donor funds and portraying the situation as a humanitarian disaster, which he argued diverted global attention from the core issue and prolonged the crisis. He highlighted the current government's efforts to elevate the issue internationally, including hosting UN Secretary-General António Guterres and organizing stakeholder conferences. Bangladesh is also actively supporting The Gambia's case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to promote justice and accountability.

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The Rohingya repatriation is a 'complex, sensitive, and multidimensional international issue.'

Rahman also pointed to recent diplomatic gestures, noting that both Myanmar's foreign minister and the Arakan Army chief congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman after the current government took office, a development he described as unprecedented. Verification of Rohingya identities is ongoing, with Bangladesh having shared data on over 800,000 refugees with Myanmar, of which a significant portion has been verified and officially recognized.

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Since ethnic conflict and war have persisted in Rakhine for a long time, repatriation cannot be forced or carried out in unsafe conditions under international law.