“A Real Shame the World Hasn’t Solved the Rohingya Crisis,” Says Prefect Cardinal Czerny

Cardinal Michael Felix Czerny SJ, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, expressed deep concern over the prolonged suffering of Rohingya refugees and internal migrants during a press conference at the CBCB Centre in Dhaka on November 4. 

Cardinal Czerny, who is on a pastoral visit to Bangladesh, said, “I met internal migrants in Narayanganj and Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar. Both situations are extremely challenging. For those in the camps, being stateless, unemployed, and confined for years is intolerable. It’s a real shame that the international community has not been able to provide a solution to this (Rohingya) problem.” 

He emphasized the importance of dialogue in addressing migration issues: “We must maintain dialogue with authorities. We never want to close the door. Exchange of viewpoints can help find solutions within a country or more broadly.” 

During his visit, Cardinal Czerny met internally displaced families in Modonpur, Narayanganj, and visited the Ukhia Rohingya Camp in Cox’s Bazar. He also engaged with street children, volunteers, and Caritas Bangladesh staff, offering solidarity and compassion. His itinerary included interfaith prayer, family visits, and meetings with children’s centers. 

Cardinal Czerny urged the global community to show greater solidarity with Rohingya refugees amid declining attention and funding cuts. “The situation is very difficult, with less global attention and reduced aid. The world should show more solidarity, not less. All organizations, Christian and others, must respond to real needs and continue supporting those who suffer. We are helping, and we must continue to help.” 

The press conference was attended by Francesca Dona, Regional Coordinator for Asia Mainland; Bishop Gervas Rozario of Rajshahi, Chairman of the Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace; and Fr. Liton Hubert Gomes, Secretary of the Commission. Around 40 journalists and writers were present.