| Syllabus: GS-II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: Global issues, Issue: Rohingya refugee |
Context: A boat carrying Rohingya refugees overturned off the coast of Indonesia.
Rohingyas:
- A Muslim minority ethnic group originating from the Arakan Kingdom in Myanmar.
- Myanmar has denied them citizenship since 1982.
- Their exodus began in 2017 following violence in Rakhine state.
- The UN has described the 2017 violence as ethnic cleansing and accused the Myanmar government of genocidal intent.
- Currently nearly 9.60 lakh Rohingya refugee lives in Bangladesh.
Reasons for undertaking hazardous sea routes:
- Overcrowding and inadequate access to healthcare and education.
- Gang violence and arson attacks
Conclusion:
- Indian Ocean countries must address this issue regionally.
