Freedom of movement

The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees freedom of movement for its citizens, but the Government can regulate foreigners' movements. Under the 1946 Foreigners Act, foreigners can be confined, have their movements restricted, and face imprisonment for contraventions. The 1951 Foreigners Order further allows civil authorities to regulate foreigners' places of residence and movements within Bangladesh.

There are no domestic laws and policies that accord refugees who are lawfully in the country the right to move freely within the country. The Government of Bangladesh enforces a strict encampment policy under which all Rohingya refugees must be registered with the Government (jointly with UNHCR) and must reside in designated camps in Cox’s Bazar District and on the Bhasan Char Island in Noakhali District. 

Refugees’ movement in and out of the camps is subject to prior written authorization in the form of a “Camp Exit Pass” from the Camp-in-Charge (CiC – responsible for administering the refugee camps on behalf of the Government). CICs have discretionary power to grant authorization for refugees’ movements outside of the camp, for instance, to access health services or to file a complaint at a police station outside the camp. Law enforcement ensures compliance through checkpoints, deterring unauthorized movement.

Bangladesh lacks specific legislation concerning asylum-seekers' or refugees' rights, leaving them without clear guidelines or the ability to seek administrative or judicial remedies for violations. UNHCR intervenes on a case-by-case basis when Camp Exit Passes are denied, advocating with authorities like the CiC or the Office of the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner. Bangladesh’s legal framework and policies heavily restrict the rights and movements of Rohingya refugees.