The United States has announced a significant financial aid package for the Rohingya refugees who have sought shelter in Bangladesh after being displaced from Myanmar. This new humanitarian assistance amounts to $199 million, which is approximately 2,378.8 crore Bangladeshi Taka.
On Tuesday, September 24, during a side event at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Uzra Zeya, the U.S. Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, made this announcement. The information was shared in a press release by the U.S. Department of State.
The press release detailed that $70 million of the aid will come from the U.S. government’s Population, Refugees, and Migration division, while the remaining $129 million will be provided by USAID. Of the USAID funds, $78 million will be sourced from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation, which will help purchase, transport, and distribute food from American farmers to the Rohingya.
This aid aims to protect the Rohingya from violence and persecution, support disaster preparedness, and provide education and skill-building opportunities. It also seeks to inspire the refugees to return home when conditions allow.
Since 2017, the United States has contributed $2.5 billion in financial aid for Rohingya refugees and local communities, with $2.1 billion directed to Bangladesh. Of this, $1.3 billion has been channeled through the U.S. government’s Population, Refugees, and Migration division.
The U.S. Embassy has reiterated its commitment to supporting crisis-affected communities in Bangladesh.
This substantial aid package underscores the United States’ dedication to addressing humanitarian crises and supporting vulnerable populations worldwide. By providing essential resources and fostering resilience, we can help build a more stable and hopeful future for those in need.
