The government of Japan has allocated approximately USD 3.3 million (JPY 500 million) to support UNICEF’s response to the humanitarian needs of Rohingya refugees. 

Through this grant, 65,000 Rohingya refugees, including 41,000 children, will receive access to education, WASH, health, and nutrition support in Cox’s Bazar District and Bhasan Char.

An Exchange of Notes was signed by SAIDA Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh, said the Embassy of Japan in Dhaka on Tuesday through a press release today (March 4).

During the signing ceremony at the UNICEF office in Dhaka, SAIDA Shinichi said, “I would like to commend the efforts of UNICEF, which has been at the forefront in the Rohingya camps, addressing the needs of every child in key sectors such as health, education, nutrition, protection, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).” 

The envoy also said that this contribution from Japan to UNICEF comes at a critical time when fundraising for the Rohingya humanitarian response is essential. 

Japan will continue to work towards sustainable solutions for this humanitarian crisis and will maintain cooperation with international organizations, including UNICEF, he added.

Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh, said, “Every day, Rohingya children struggle against overwhelming odds. They have limited access to education, face cultural barriers, and are under constant threat of waterborne diseases, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare in overcrowded facilities.”

She also said like all children, they deserve the opportunity to learn, be healthy, feel safe, and thrive—now more than ever. 

“We are thankful for the unwavering support from the government of Japan in expanding critical services for these vulnerable children. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child, no matter where they are,” she added.

Over seven years ago, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled attacks and violence in Myanmar, joining refugees already in Bangladesh from previous waves of displacement. 

Today, about half a million Rohingya refugee children are growing up in the world’s largest refugee camp, with many born as refugees. The Rohingya rely entirely on humanitarian assistance for protection, food, water, shelter, and healthcare.

Since the onset of the emergency in August 2017, Japan has been a significant supporter of the response to the Rohingya humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, contributing approximately USD 240 million to UN agencies and NGOs in the country.

UNICEF, working alongside the government of Bangladesh and its partners, has been on the ground in the refugee camps since day one and continues to provide clean water, healthcare, protection, nutritious food, and education for every Rohingya refugee child in need.

BDST: 2241 HRS, MAR 04, 2025
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