A Year of Independent Reporting on the Rohingya
No Man's Land and Beyond
A Year in Review:
As the year winds down, I take a moment to reflect on the stories I've shared and the issues I've highlighted regarding the Rohingya crisis.
Throughout the year, my focus has been on bringing to light complex and often overlooked aspects of the refugee situation. This included reporting on the tragic events at “No Man’s Land” Rohingya camp that unfolded in January 2023. This camp, a “special-status” haven for over 4,500 refugees, was rocked by a violent incursion that not only led to the expulsion of these refugees but also resulted in several tragic deaths. The brutality of this attack was deeply disturbing, yet what made it even more alarming was the revelation it brought to light — the apparent collusion between the Myanmar and Bangladesh military forces.
In the wake of these events, one particular story that has resonated deeply with me is that of Dil Mohammed, a once-prominent figure now detained and forgotten. His disappearance and arbitrary detention has been completely overlooked by others, but I have consistently sought to highlight his situation. Dil Mohammed’s plight is emblematic of the ongoing struggles faced by many in the Rohingya community.
In a challenging endeavour related to the destruction of No Man’s Land , I also brought to attention an audio recording by Ko Ko Linn of Rohingya Solidarity Organisation (RSO) that spurred a wave of reactions on YouTube and Facebook by his supporters against me. This highlighted the complexities and, dare i say, particular challenges that come with covering conflicts within the Rohingya community.
Shedding Light on Coercion and Conflict
A significant part of this year involved exploring the realities behind the Rohingya repatriation process. The reaction to these stories, including the response from the Bangladesh government against my Twitter/X account, emphasised the sensitivity and importance of this issue.
In my reporting, I highlighted how the Bangladesh authorities employed coercive tactics and financial inducements to facilitate Rohingya repatriation. One of the most striking revelations was the offer of a $2,000 cash incentive to Rohingya families in Bhasan Char and Teknaf, if they agreed to return to Myanmar. This amount, significant for most refugees, raised concerns about the exploitation of their vulnerable financial situation.
I also uncovered instances where misinformation and threats of violence were used to pressurise refugees. For example, refugees were misinformed about the recognition of Rohingya as an ethnic group in Myanmar, and some reported threats of physical violence if they refused to repatriate. These tactics, criticised by human rights advocates, undermine the principle of voluntary return and highlight the desperate conditions these refugees face.
Another significant story I broke this year involved the amnesty granted by the government to several former members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), who were facing murder charges for the killing of Rohingya leader Mohibullah. Intriguingly, their relocation to Bhasan Char — where they are now amongst Rohingya they previously terrorised — suggests a complex and possibly concerning relationship between ARSA and the Bangladeshi authorities. This move not only raises serious questions about the pursuit of justice and accountability but also hints at deeper, unexplored dynamics within the Rohingya crisis.
Bangladesh Media
In reflecting on the year's work, it's important to note that all these stories - from the disturbing events at No Man's Land to the unexpected but telling amnesty of former ARSA members - have been either completely or largely ignored by the press in Bangladesh. This omission is indicative of the extraordinarily difficult challenges faced by the media in the country. Restrictions, political pressures, and the complex socio-political landscape have significantly hampered the ability of journalists to cover and report on these critical issues.
Tragic Maritime Incidents
The year was bookended by maritime tragedies affecting the Rohingya, with my initial reporting on a boat disaster and recent news of another missing vessel. These incidents serve as a reminder of the continual risks faced by the community in their search for safety and dignity.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
I owe a profound thanks to my fixers in the camps of Bangladesh and in Arakan. They have not only educated me over the years but also played a crucial role in bringing these critical matters to light, often at considerable risk to themselves. Their bravery and dedication have been the backbone of my reporting,
I extend thanks to my podcast guests who have contributed to the discussions this year. Looking ahead, I am hopeful for more engaging and enlightening conversations in our upcoming episodes. Additionally, I'm excited to announce that there are further projects in the pipeline, including a photography book and a documentary.
Support for Ongoing Journalism
You can find most of my articles from 2023 on other platforms listed here. If you find value in my work, please consider a paid subscription.
As we move into 2024, I wish all my readers a Happy New Year. May it be a year of continued awareness and positive developments. Thank you for joining me in this journey.
Happy New Year to you, too!