Eight years ago, the Myanmar military launched a campaign of systemic violence against Rohingya communities, leading to mass displacement, widespread human rights violations and abuses, and untold suffering. Today, more than 1.1 million Rohingya remain displaced in Bangladesh, along with hundreds of thousands elsewhere in the region and internally in Myanmar.

With the escalating conflict and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Rakhine State, many Rohingya have been forced from their homes and country. We remain deeply concerned by the targeting of civilians, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and forced recruitment into the Myanmar military. We also note with concern credible reports of discrimination and abuse against Rohingya committed by other armed actors.

Displaced Rohingya want to return home, despite for decades having been denied citizenship and access to basic rights and services. This requires conditions to be conducive for their voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return, but these conditions can only be met by addressing the root causes of their displacement, which requires a peaceful and stable Myanmar. Australia remains committed to supporting the humanitarian needs of Rohingya in Myanmar and Bangladesh. Australia also supports the efforts to pursue accountability for crimes committed against the Rohingya.

We call for an immediate cessation of violence, the release of those unjustly detained, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and for the regime to engage in genuine and inclusive political dialogue with all stakeholders with the view to a return to a more peaceful and stable Myanmar. Elections held without these essential steps risk greater instability. We urge a peaceful transition of power to a civilian democratic government that reflects the will of the people.

Australia continues to strongly support ASEAN’s efforts to resolve the crisis, and we call again for the full implementation of ASEAN’s Five Point Consensus. We will also continue to work with the Government of Bangladesh and the international community to focus attention on the situation in Myanmar and the related humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, including at the upcoming High-Level Conference in September 2025.

Australia continues to stand with the people of Myanmar.