IIMM Head Nicholas Koumjian Pays Courtesy Call on Home Minister

During the meeting, discussions were held on crimes against humanity committed in Myanmar, a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis, border security, and the ongoing judicial process at the International Court of Justice.

The Home Minister said that although Bangladesh has sheltered millions of Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds, the situation is becoming more complex day by day. The conflict between Myanmar's junta forces and the Arakan Army is also affecting Bangladesh's border. At the same time, with declining international assistance, pressure on Bangladesh is increasing. He called on the international community and the United Nations to continue support for the Rohingyas.

IIMM head Nicholas Koumjian expressed gratitude to the Bangladesh government for its cooperation. He said that the IIMM team has interviewed nearly two hundred victims and eyewitnesses on the ground in Cox's Bazar and various areas. These information and evidence are being submitted to various international tribunals, including the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

He also said that alongside the events of 2017, IIMM is also documenting recent incidents of violence and human rights violations against civilians due to clashes between the Arakan Army and junta forces.

At the meeting, BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui highlighted the risk of landmines planted on Myanmar's side of the border. He said that because mines cross the border into Bangladesh during monsoon and hill runoff, the lives of farmers and hill communities are at risk.

At that time, the IIMM team expressed interest in discussing with BGB field-level commanders to collect information about recent victims who came through the border. The Ministry of Home Affairs and BGB agreed to this. The Minister expressed hope that the upcoming verdict of the International Court of Justice will increase international pressure on Myanmar and play an effective role in the repatriation of Rohingyas.