VP/HR — Rohingya children in Myanmar
10.7.2018
Question for written answer E-003782-18
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Hilde Vautmans (ALDE)
While global attention has focused on the atrocities in northern Rakhine State in August 2017 and the response to the refugees in Bangladesh, systematic violations of rights continue against the 600 000 Rohingya still estimated to be living in Myanmar.
These include violations of their nationality rights and depriving them of freedom of movement and access to healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities. Children and their families in northern Rakhine reportedly face severe food insecurity and ongoing threats.
Those in central Rakhine, more than a third of whom have been confined to displacement camps in appalling conditions for nearly six years, are subject to severe constraints on their movement and to other forms of discrimination, limiting their ability to access livelihood opportunities and essential services including healthcare and education. The population is segregated, discriminated against, and denied legal identity and citizenship.
Rohingya who have fled to Bangladesh and other countries will watch to see how their counterparts are treated before making an informed decision as to whether they can return to Rakhine State on a safe, dignified, and sustainable basis.
How is the EU engaging the Myanmar government to ensure the following:
- 1.Accountability for past and current violations;
- 2.Humanitarian access and respect for rights in Rakhine State/Myanmar;
- 3.Durable solutions for refugees and IDPs, in particular children?