Dhaka, 18 June:
The European Union (EU) has announced a new EUR 14 million development grant to support Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, reinforcing efforts to provide life-saving assistance, strengthen protection services, and improve resilience in the Cox’s Bazar camps.
The new funding, announced jointly by the EU and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), will benefit around 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and nearly 70,000 members of the Bangladeshi host community. The support will focus on skills development, livelihood opportunities, access to clean cooking fuel, and protection services.
EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller said the assistance reflects the bloc’s continued commitment to both refugees and host communities. He noted that the funding would expand access to education and practical skills for Rohingya refugees while improving living conditions and promoting dignity until conditions allow for their voluntary, safe and dignified return to Myanmar.
UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh Ivo Freijsen welcomed the renewed partnership, saying sustained international support remains essential for refugees who have endured years of displacement. He said the contribution would help refugees access critical protection services and meet their basic needs while preserving hope for a better future.
The funding also aims to improve camp safety through enhanced community protection mechanisms and expanded use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), reducing health risks and pressure on surrounding forests.
The announcement comes ahead of World Refugee Day on 20 June, as UNHCR and its partners continue to seek USD 710 million under the 2025–2026 Joint Response Plan to support Rohingya refugees and affected host communities in Bangladesh.
