Rohingya Relocation to Bhasan Char Island: A Sustainability Assessment

With the repeated difficulties encountered in the repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar, the Bangladeshi Government has become increasingly aware that the Rohingya crisis represents a long-term logistical challenge. Conditions in the overflowing refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar have become critical. The government’s most highly touted solution is the relocation of a large number of Rohingya to the island of Basan Char, where living facilities have already been constructed, and indeed, a small number of refugees have already been sent. Initially, although the international communities were skeptical due to the geographic location of the island, eventually they came onboard with the ongoing relocation process. Proceeding from an analysis of two global case studies of population resettlement, this chapter discusses the myriad reasons cited in claiming the necessity for Rohingya relocation. We continue with an in-depth description of the Bangladeshi relocation program and raise the question of the program’s sustainability, along with responses from the various parties involved. We conclude by finding both merit in the relocation, as well as cause for caution and meticulous oversight.