Logo of UNHCRAt least 15 refugees and asylum seekers died or went missing when attempting to cross overseas between January-June 2019Refugees and asylum seekers in Southeast Asia face critical threats while seeking safety and a better future for themselves and their families, according to a report of UNHCR. At least 15 refugees and asylum seekers died or went missing when attempting to cross seas and rivers between January and June 2019, including four deaths during the first six months of 2019. In Bangladesh, the government with the support of the international community has mounted a large-scale response to address the humanitarian needs of the refugees and support affected host communities. “Orderly and safe pathways for refugees and asylum seekers, and better regional cooperation to rescue those in distress are in the interests of states, receiving communities, refugees and migrants alike,” Indrika added. “As long as the root causes of displacement are unresolved, refugees will continue to feel compelled to undertake dangerous journeys in search of safety for themselves and their families.”

Source: Dhaka Tribune October 01, 2019 13:07 UTC