UN refugee agency says it has no role in Malaysia’s Myanmar repatriation plan and warns returns remain unsafe

The United Nations refugee agency has drawn a clear line between itself and Malaysia’s planned repatriation of Myanmar refugees: it is not involved, and it does not consider Myanmar safe for their return.

Malaysia’s Home Ministry said it had finalized the first phase of a voluntary programme that would send 1,476 refugees back to Myanmar on Sept. 29. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim previously said Myanmar had agreed to take back 5,000 Rohingya, as tensions over refugees have increased in some Malaysian communities.

UNHCR said continuing armed conflict and violence throughout Myanmar meant a return could not currently be considered safe, dignified and sustainable. It cited the principle that no one should be sent to a country where their rights or freedoms may be at risk.

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Under customary international law, a binding obligation on all states, no one should be sent to a country where their rights or freedoms may be at risk. Any refugee return must be voluntary, based on an informed decision, and take place in conditions of safety and dignity.

“Under customary international law, a binding obligation on all states, no one should be sent to a country where their rights or freedoms may be at risk. Any refugee return must be voluntary, based on an informed decision, and take place in conditions of safety and dignity,” the agency said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

“UNHCR urges that careful consideration be given to the protection needs of all those concerned before they are returned to Myanmar, and stands ready to engage with relevant authorities on protection safeguards.” A Home Ministry spokesperson declined to comment and referred to earlier statements that the process was voluntary.

Thousands of people have fled Myanmar since the 2021 military coup, which triggered a nationwide civil war. UNHCR data showed that Malaysia hosted about 193,800 refugees from Myanmar as of February, including Rohingya and Chin people. Activists say the actual number is higher because many refugees remain unregistered.

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UNHCR urges that careful consideration be given to the protection needs of all those concerned before they are returned to Myanmar, and stands ready to engage with relevant authorities on protection safeguards.