The persecution of the Rohingya, rooted in systemic discrimination by the Myanmar government, has escalated into one of the most severe humanitarian crises of the 21st century. Since the military crackdown in August 2017, thousands of Rohingya have been killed, and more than a million have been displaced, creating a massive refugee crisis. The humanitarian emergency has devastated the Rohingya community, severely limiting access to basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare, while also causing significant cultural and psychological trauma.

A Prolonged Struggle

The international community has largely failed the Rohingya through its lack of decisive action, resulting in a prolonged crisis with no viable solutions in sight. The violence against the Rohingya, which has left their communities in ruins, began decades ago but intensified in 2017 following attacks by Rohingya militants. The Myanmar military responded with disproportionate force, committing widespread atrocities including mass killings, gang rapes, and the burning of entire villages.

International Involvement

In response to the crisis, neighbouring countries and global powers have been drawn into the situation, though with limited success in alleviating the suffering. Bangladesh, which hosts the majority of Rohingya refugees, has borne the brunt of the refugee influx, straining its resources. Meanwhile, the international community, including the United Nations and various human rights organizations, has condemned the Myanmar government’s actions and called for accountability and justice. Sanctions have been imposed on Myanmar military leaders, but these measures have yet to bring significant change.

Atrocities and International Response

The atrocities committed against the Rohingya have prompted international outrage and numerous calls for action. The United Nations has described the Myanmar military’s actions as “a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” In response, the international community has imposed sanctions on Myanmar and provided humanitarian aid to Rohingya refugees. Canada has been among the nations leading these efforts, imposing sanctions on key Myanmar military officials and committing significant funds to aid Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

Canada’s Role and Refugee Resettlement

Canada has played a crucial role in responding to the Rohingya crisis. The Canadian government has imposed sanctions on Myanmar military leaders responsible for the atrocities. Additionally, Canada has committed substantial humanitarian aid to support Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, providing essential services such as food, healthcare, and education. Canada has also offered asylum to a number of Rohingya refugees, though the numbers are limited compared to the scale of the crisis.

Integration Challenges and Rising Islamophobia

Rohingya refugees, like many displaced Muslim communities, face significant challenges in their new environments. Reports of discrimination and hostility towards Rohingya refugees in various countries, including barriers to accessing education and employment, are common. This mirrors broader issues of Islamophobia seen globally, exacerbating the difficulties faced by displaced Muslim populations.

The Ongoing Crisis

As of 2024, the Rohingya crisis remains dire. The United Nations estimates that over 900,000 Rohingya refugees are currently in Bangladesh, living in overcrowded and under-resourced camps. In Myanmar, approximately 600,000 Rohingya remain, facing severe restrictions and ongoing persecution. The majority of Rohingya continue to live in extreme poverty, with limited access to basic services and constant threats to their safety.