Economic sanctions needed if Myanmar fails to make progress, say speakers
Imposing economic sanctions on Myanmar is imperative if its government fails to make any visible progress in repatriating Rohingyas with dignity and security within a specific time, said speakers at a programme yesterday.
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Bangladesh organised the meeting on “Durable Solution of Rohingya Crisis” at its conference room in Dhaka.
Speakers called upon the international community to take legal actions against the Myanmar government and army -- accused of genocide -- at International Criminal Court (ICC).
“Economic sanctions can be imposed on Myanmar if we do not see any visible progress regarding the repatriation of Rohingyas within a specific time,” said NHRC Chairman Kazi Reazul Hoque.
“We are hopeful that pressure will be created on Myanmar to repatriate Rohingyas, under the leadership of the United Nations,” he added.
Former election commissioner Brig (retd) Sakhawat Hussain stressed the need to convince China on the issue of repatriation.
If this crisis lingers for 10-15 years, it may pose security threats for Bangladesh and China, he said.
Former ambassador Muhammad Zamir said that over 42,000 children were born in the camps since Rohingyas started arriving last year.
“The impact of the influx has put tremendous pressure on the host community,” said Zamir.
Former ambassador Muhammad Azizul Haque said, “We have to pursue China and Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) that have not played significant role in mediation so far.”
Azizul also said UN and other international organisations can pursue both China and Russia to work towards repatriation of Rohingyas.
Emphasising the need to engage civil society members in Myanmar, Mizanur Rahman Khan, joint editor of Prothom Alo, said Bangladesh should involve the civil society [of Myanmar] with a view to enhance interfaith dialogue.
Mentioning his experience of bilateral home minister-level meeting in Bangladesh, additional secretary to the home ministry Moshiur Rahman said Myanmar has not kept its commitment so far.
“What they commit to at bilateral meetings, they totally reverse that after returning to their country,” he said.
Comments