NDP Statement on Rohingya Refugees

The following statement was issued by NDP Foreign Affairs Critic, Hélène Laverdière, NDP International Development Critic, Robert Aubin, and Vice-Chair of the House of Commons Subcomittee on International Human Rights, Cheryl Hardcastle:

"New Democrats share concerns raised by human rights and humanitarian organizations regarding the recently announced agreement between Myanmar and Bangladesh on the repatriation of Rohingya refugees.

Organizations working on the ground in Bangladesh and Myanmar have said that this agreement is premature, and does not address citizenship or security issues. Forcing the repatriation of the Rohingya to a deeply dangerous and unresolved situation could make them further vulnerable to violence, human rights violations, and food insecurity. Many of these refugees are traumatized and have no homes to return to. There are entire villages in Rakhine State that have been burnt down.

We urge Canada to take concrete and meaningful measures to ensure that any agreement pertaining to the return of the Rohingya is consistent with international law, and ensures their safety and security. The Rohingya must have their human rights, including citizenship and property rights, freedom of movement and freedom of religion, protected.

We remind Canadians that the Myanmar Crisis Relief Fund, which matches donations from Canadians, ends today."