Guterres' Visit Highlights Threatened Food Security for Rohingya Refugees

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visits Rohingya camps in Bangladesh amid looming food ration cuts. The potential reduction to $6 monthly rations is causing concern among refugees and aid workers. Bangladesh's interim government seeks to draw global support to address the funding shortfall impacting refugees' living conditions.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is making a critical visit to Bangladesh's Rohingya refugee camps as the community braces for significant cuts to food rations. The potential reduction, from $12.50 to $6 a month per person, is due to a funding shortfall that could exacerbate already dire conditions in the world's largest refugee settlement.

The World Food Programme's reduced budget is linked to a global drop in donations, though the termination of U.S. foreign aid may have further strained resources, according to senior Bangladeshi officials. Settling in Cox's Bazar, over a million Rohingya face limited job or education opportunities, heightening vulnerability.

As Ramadan approaches, fears mount over the impact of ration cuts on food security during this holy period. Guterres' visit, alongside heads of Bangladesh's interim government, is hoped to rally international support and highlight the urgent need for aid to avert a humanitarian crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)