The Rohingya Crisis and Its Effect on Bangladesh-Myanmar Bilateral Relations: A Historical Analysis
摘要
The plight of the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar has attracted international attention due to state-sponsored persecution and the resulting displacement in Rakhine State. This humanitarian emergency has led to a mass exodus to neighboring Bangladesh, where millions of people are now living as refugees. The significant influx of refugees places an enormous burden on Bangladesh and requires urgent repatriation initiatives. The confluence of these events has decisively shaped the dynamics of relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar. This chapter attempts to describe the historical development of bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar and to examine the multifaceted impact of the Rohingya crisis on their relations. Particular attention is paid to economic, security, and diplomatic ramifications. The chapter suggests that bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar remain fraught with complexity despite ongoing trade and commercial exchanges as well as shared cultural and religious affinities. The mutual legacy of British colonial emancipation has not been enough to shield the partnership from the strains of the Rohingya crisis. While overall trade continues with slight fluctuations, the crisis has triggered both diplomatic efforts due to international aid and security tensions due to border concerns, trafficking, and militant attacks. In conclusion, this chapter proposes policy recommendations that are critical to managing the crisis and fostering improved diplomatic relations and have the potential to positively impact regional stability and the well-being of the affected population.