- EU commits €68 million to support Rohingya refugees and conflict-affected communities in Myanmar.
- EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka.
- Lahbib emphasized the need for peace as the ultimate solution to the crisis.
- Bangladesh seeks EU support for hydroelectricity imports to boost renewable energy efforts.
- EU expresses commitment to strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh on disaster preparedness and reform initiatives.
The European Union has announced €68 million in aid to support Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and people affected by conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine state. The funding, aimed at humanitarian assistance and crisis management, marks an increase from the EU’s previous contributions.
EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, made the announcement during her visit to Bangladesh on March 3, 2025. She met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. Despite the increase in funding, Lahbib warned that it might still be insufficient to prevent worsening conditions in Rohingya camps due to a growing funding gap.
Bangladesh Seeks Global Attention
Chief Adviser Yunus reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to addressing the crisis, calling it a “big issue” that has persisted for years without resolution. He welcomed the EU’s support and mentioned an upcoming visit by the UN Secretary-General to further highlight the crisis internationally.
“We are very happy to see you visit Bangladesh. The UN Secretary-General is coming. We are trying to draw international attention to the Rohingya crisis,” said Yunus.
Lahbib emphasized that the only lasting solution to the crisis is peace. She also highlighted the importance of preparedness for disasters, including those caused by human actions, such as disinformation.
Cooperation on Renewable Energy and Disaster Management
Beyond humanitarian aid, the discussions covered energy cooperation, disaster management, and climate change mitigation. Yunus sought EU support for importing hydroelectricity from Nepal, arguing that it would help Bangladesh transition to renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“We talk about renewable energy, and here is the renewable energy. Both Nepal and Bhutan are very keen to sell renewable energy to us,” Yunus stated.
Lahbib expressed the EU’s interest in strengthening collaboration on disaster preparedness, flood control, and climate change mitigation. She stressed the importance of sharing best practices between the EU and Bangladesh to enhance resilience against natural and man-made disasters.
EU’s Support for Bangladesh
Lahbib commended Chief Adviser Yunus for his leadership during a critical time for Bangladesh. She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s interim government as it undertakes key reforms.
“You did an extraordinary job at an extraordinary time. My main message is that we are ready to reinforce our cooperation,” said Lahbib.
She acknowledged that reform processes often face resistance and challenges but assured Bangladesh of the EU’s support. “It is a very important strategic window that we are witnessing. We know there is always resistance when you want to change something. So, a lot is needed to be done. We are here beside you,” she added.
Commitment to Free and Fair Elections
Chief Adviser Yunus assured that Bangladesh’s interim government is committed to free and fair elections. He mentioned that the vote would likely happen by December 2025. He also stressed the importance of international support for a smooth transition.
The EU pledged €68 million to help with the Rohingya crisis and support Myanmar’s affected communities. Commissioner Lahbib and Yunus discussed sustainable solutions, global cooperation, and disaster preparedness. As the situation changes, financial aid and international focus will be essential for stability and long-term solutions.