The Government of Japan has granted USD 2.6 million (about 400 million JPY) to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support a comprehensive program for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
The Exchange of Notes was signed by Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Giuseppe Loprete, Chief of Mission a.i., IOM Bangladesh.
The project will assist roughly 565,000 people through integrated interventions, including shelter and non-food items, LPG distribution, healthcare, site management and development, and livelihood support for refugees. Disaster Risk Reduction measures will also be implemented to help displaced and disaster-prone host communities in Cox’s Bazar.
Ambassador Saida Shinichi expressed his hope that the support from the Government of Japan will lead to improved living conditions for both Rohingya refugees and host communities.
“Japan remains firmly committed to supporting the Rohingya refugees and the host communities in Bangladesh. Through our continued partnership with IOM, Japan hopes to help improve living conditions, strengthen resilience, and uphold human dignity in the face of this protracted humanitarian crisis..,” said Ambassador Saida.
“Supporting humanitarian operations in Cox´s Bazar has become increasingly urgent in 2026, as the needs of the refugee population continue to grow while long term solutions are not yet available,” said Giuseppe Loprete, Chief of Mission, a.i., IOM Bangladesh.
“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Japan for its continued and generous support. This contribution will enable IOM and its partners to respond to critical life-saving needs, including shelter and health services, while also supporting livelihoods and strengthening resilience to climate-related disasters and other challenges faced by Rohingya refugees and host communities. In close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh and partners, IOM remains firmly committed to supporting affected populations.”
Since the beginning of the emergency in August 2017, Japan has been a consistent supporter of the Rohingya humanitarian response in Bangladesh, contributing over USD 250 million to IOM and other UN agencies and non-governmental organizations, including through this latest contribution.