UNHCR welcomes China’s US$2.5m support for Rohingya refugees in BD

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has welcomed the People’s Republic of China’s US$2.5 million contribution to provide liquified petroleum gas (LPG) to meet the cooking needs of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

The contribution from the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund will enable UNHCR to supply cleaner cooking energy to approximately 458,000 refugees, or 94,000 households, until October 2026 — offering vital relief and protection in one of the world’s most densely populated refugee settings, according to a press release.

“This generous support from China comes at a crucial time, as resources shrink globally and many life-saving programmes risk being scaled back,” said Ivo Frejsen, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh.

“We are deeply grateful for China’s solidarity. Their contribution does much more than provide cooking gas — it helps restore dignity, ensures safety, and reaffirms that refugees are not forgotten.”

“At a time when global humanitarian resources are shrinking and some countries are significantly reducing their commitments, the situation of vulnerable groups has become increasingly difficult. China, as Bangladesh’s steadfast development partner and true friend, has continued to expand its support,” said Yao Wen, Ambassador of China to Bangladesh.

“China will work closely with UNHCR and the Government of Bangladesh to ensure the effective implementation of this project so that the displaced people from Rakhine State in Bangladesh can benefit at the earliest possible,” he added.

Eight years into the Rohingya refugee crisis, Bangladesh continues to host 1.16 million Rohingya refugees, who remain dependent on humanitarian assistance to meet their daily needs.

The Chinese funding will secure refugees’ continued access to LPG—reducing dependence on firewood, improving safety, health and nutrition, and protecting the forests around the camps.

Ivo Freijsen said, “Rohingya refugees regularly tell me how essential LPG is to their daily lives. Since its introduction in 2018, they no longer have to venture out to collect firewood—avoiding significant risks. Women and girls face fewer protection challenges, and children can spend more time in schools. The use of LPG is also key in halting environmental degradation, regreening camps and surrounding areas.”

UNHCR continues to work closely with Government of Bangladesh and all partners committed to enhancing the well-being of Rohingya refugees. Sustained international solidarity is essential for both refugees and hosting communities.

The LPG initiative shows the tangible impact of such support on families who fled conflict and persecution, and the generous assistance of countries, including China, remains vital to bolstering Bangladesh’s humanitarian response to the Rohingya refugee situation.