Dhaka. Rohingya refugees living in the massive camps in Bangladesh expressed serious concern on Wednesday following news of cuts to food assistance. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is preparing to reduce rations for 1.2 million refugees due to a cash crunch.
According to the WFP, Rohingya refugees in the Cox’s Bazar camps currently receive food aid equivalent to $12 per month. However, starting April 1, monthly assistance for low-risk groups will be reduced to seven dollars, and for medium-risk groups, it will be completely cut to zero dollars. Only families considered ‘extremely food insecure’—such as those with children, women, the elderly, and members with physical disabilities—will receive the same current payment.
WFP spokesperson Kun Li stated, “The purpose of the change is to provide aid more equitably and according to actual need. The most vulnerable families will be prioritized.”
However, Syed Ullah, president of the Rohingya Citizens’ Rights Forum, questioned, “How can a person survive for a month on $12? How can one survive on seven to zero dollars?” He expressed concern that since refugees are not formally allowed to work in Bangladesh, the small rations might force some into illegal activities.
Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner of Bangladesh, acknowledged that aid agencies are facing financial difficulties but warned of potential consequences. “Hunger can increase social instability and cause law and order problems,” he said.
Thousands of Rohingya fled Myanmar in 2017 following brutal military crackdowns. The burning of their villages and killing of civilians are currently the subject of a genocide case at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
According to the WFP, global funding decreased by about 40% in 2025. Cuts to foreign aid under former US President Donald Trump’s administration had put further pressure on global humanitarian efforts. In March 2025, the WFP indicated it would have to cut monthly assistance to six dollars, but this was not immediately implemented.