The United States government has announced the provision of nearly $40 million in emergency assistance in response to the crisis in Rakhine State, Burma. This funding is part of a larger effort that totals almost $104 million in humanitarian aid for displaced Burmese individuals within Burma and across the region during the fiscal year 2017.
This U.S. assistance supports international partners such as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the World Food Program (WFP). These organizations are providing essential services including protection, emergency shelter, food, nutritional aid, health care, and psychosocial support to over half a million displaced individuals from Burma who are now located in Burma, Bangladesh, and surrounding areas.
The statement from the U.S. Department of State acknowledges "the Government of Bangladesh’s generosity in responding to this severe humanitarian crisis" and expresses appreciation for its efforts to ensure that aid reaches those most in need.
Furthermore, there is a call for an immediate cessation of violence in northern Rakhine State. The U.S. urges the Burmese government to facilitate the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of refugees to their homes. The statement also welcomes Burma's commitment to achieving long-term peace and stability by implementing recommendations from the Annan Commission report.
The United States emphasizes the need for "unhindered humanitarian access" to affected populations within Rakhine State so that urgent needs can be adequately addressed. Additionally, it calls on other donors to contribute further humanitarian assistance to those impacted by this crisis.