UNHCR Calls on Bangladesh to Keep Borders Open

13 June 2012

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called on Bangladesh to keep its border with Burma open amid media reports that boats carrying people fleeing from violence in Arakan State had been turned away. In a statement, the UN agency said that it was advocating with the Bangladeshi authorities to allow safe haven on its territory for those who need immediate safety and medical assistance. Like other UN agencies, the UNHCR has recently withdrawn its staff from northern Arakan State, but said it hoped to return soon to address humanitarian needs.