“Switzerland is deeply concerned about the current humanitarian crisis,” Mr. Bessler said while visiting a Rohingya settlement of new arrivals in Palong Khali. “The challenges I witness here are unprecedented in nature. Therefore, it is very important to devise a well-coordinated response by all actors and extend their support to all those in need, including the local communities.” Mr. Bessler also reiterated that he was concerned about the risks that the most vulnerable groups of the displaced Rohingyas - like unaccompanied children - faced and underlined that impartial humanitarian assistance and the protection for those in need - wherever they are - was of utmost priority.
Switzerland has committed to contribute 1.8 million Swiss Francs (approximately BDT 150.5 million) in emergency humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya arrivals through the Humanitarian Aid Unit of SDC. Out of this contribution, 1 million Swiss francs is being channelled through UNHCR and IOM to provide life-saving support and respond to the immediate needs of the new arrivals. Switzerland is exploring opportunities to channel CHF 800’000 through International NGOs operating in Cox’s Bazar. Additional funds are currently being mobilised.
Switzerland encourages national, regional and international efforts towards a political solution to the current crisis and stands ready to offer its good services to bring together relevant actors in order to find a long term solution to the crisis in Rakhine state.
This Swiss humanitarian assistance comes in response to the emergency appeal made by the Inter-Sector Coordination Group (ISCG). Switzerland will also provide in kind support, including basic household items and tarpaulin, to the most vulnerable Rohingya population. Mr. Bessler handed over the first tranche of the in kind support to the ISCG Coordinator, together with the Swiss Ambassador René Holenstein, in Cox’s bazar on 02 October. Switzerland will engage Swiss experts to support agencies operating in Cox’s Bazar as well.
Switzerland stands by Bangladesh in its humanitarian efforts in times of need. In response to the recent flooding in the country, the Swiss Government has committed CHF 200’000 to support the flood affected people in Bangladesh. Swiss Solidarity, a Swiss foundation that raises funds from the people in Switzerland for humanitarian assistance with support of Swiss radio and television services, has initiated a collection call to raise money to help the displaced Rohingyas. It is expected that several million Swiss francs will be collected amongst Swiss population in support of Rohingya refugees.