Over 500 Rohingyas feared dead in boat sinking incidents

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) announced on July 16 that two boats that left Myanmar's Rakhine State in late June sank in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, with over 500 people, mostly Rohingyas, feared dead. If confirmed, the incident would nearly triple the number of confirmed deaths this year on one of the world's deadliest sea routes. According to initial reports, one boat carrying about 250 people lost contact with authorities shortly after departing. The second boat, carrying about 280 people, is presumed to have sunk off the coast of Ayeyarwady Region on July 8. Passengers on both boats included individuals from refugee camps in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, but the incident and death toll have not yet been officially confirmed. IOM and UNHCR pointed out that the boats departed during the off-season in extremely severe weather conditions, with recent heavy rains and floods further increasing the danger. If confirmed, this would add to the nearly 300 Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals who have already died or gone missing in the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal this year. A UN humanitarian report released on July 13 stated that the boats are undertaking such risky departures due to intensified fighting in Rakhine State, including in Kyaukphyu, Ponnagyun, and Sittwe, leading to increased displacement and worsening conditions within Myanmar. They stated that prolonged conflict, displacement, and limited access to aid and opportunities in refugee camps in Bangladesh are driving an increasing number of Rohingyas to take the dangerous sea journey in search of safety. The agencies urged for the dismantling of human trafficking and smuggling networks that exploit the desperation of those seeking safety, an increase in search and rescue efforts, and greater provision of asylum and protection. IOM and UNHCR called for continued international support for refugees and host communities, recognizing the role of Bangladesh, which has hosted Rohingya refugees for many years.