Population figures
Total country population
174,701,211
Forcibly displaced population
Refugees (under UNHCR's mandate):
984,651
Asylum-seekers:
20
IDPs (of concern to UNHCR):
0
Other people in need of international protection:
0
Other
Statelessness persons
0
Host community
537,900
Others of concern to UNHCR
0
Country context
Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is home to a large population of refugees, primarily from neighboring Myanmar. These refugees, mainly from the Rohingya ethnic group, have fled ongoing violence and human rights violations in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Since 2017, a significant influx of refugees has resulted in one of the largest and most protracted displacement crises in the region. The majority of these refugees are based in Cox's Bazar, where they reside in densely populated camps. A smaller group is located on Bhasan Char Island, a more recent site designated for resettlement.
In addition to the Rohingya refugees, Bangladesh hosts a smaller number of urban refugees from various countries affected by conflict and instability. The refugee populations in Bangladesh are highly vulnerable, facing numerous challenges such as restricted access to basic services, limited freedom of movement, and difficulties in securing livelihoods. The camps, particularly those in Cox’s Bazar, are overcrowded, and refugees often face risks from environmental hazards like flooding and landslides, as well as security concerns within the settlements.
...The situation for internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Bangladesh also reflects the broader challenges faced by the country. Although IDPs are not as numerous as refugees, they are concentrated in specific regions affected by conflict or natural disasters. Like refugees, IDPs in Bangladesh often experience difficulties accessing essential services and face similar risks due to the unstable security environment.
The country is also home to individuals at risk of statelessness, particularly within refugee communities. Statelessness often stems from the loss of civil documents during displacement or from the lack of recognition of nationality due to legal and political factors in their country of origin. These individuals face additional challenges in securing basic rights, such as access to education, healthcare, and employment.
Overall, Bangladesh remains a host country for a significant number of refugees and displaced individuals, with the majority of the displaced population originating from Myanmar. The situation for these communities is shaped by the complex interaction of humanitarian, security, and socio-economic factors, requiring ongoing international cooperation and support to address their needs.
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