Bangladesh - Humanitarian Response to Rohingya Refugee Crisis - Action Against Hunger 2019

January 2019 – Following the outbreak of violence in Northern Rakhine State in August 2017 more than 735 000 Rohingya crossed from Myanmar into Bangladesh over a period of several months.These refugees joined some 200 000 to 300 000 Rohingya already in Bangladesh following earlier waves of displacement. The speed and scale of the influx has resulted in significant humanitarian needs With GAC’s support Action Against Hunger is providing comprehensive nutrition health protection livelihoods and water and sanitation programming to address lifesaving needs and reduce vulnerability. Project activities include: (1) treating acutely malnourished children; (2) providing psychosocial and protection information programs and services; (3) upgrading water and sanitation facilities with solar lighting locks and gender-specific signage; (4) providing multi-purpose cash grants to women-headed households and pregnant and lactating women; (5) providing training and support to women leaders to promote the social and economic advancement and protection of women and girls; and (6) conducting information sessions with men and boys on the prevention of gender-based violence and child marriage and on joint financial decision-making at the household level.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) increased utilization of gender-responsive nutrition material and service related assistance and protection mechanisms by women adolescent girls and children; and (2) increased voice leadership and influence among Rohingya women and adolescent girls regarding the factors that influence their health and dignity and the health of their children. The expected ultimate outcome is improved health well-being and dignity of women adolescent girls and children living in Rohingya refugee settlements and host community in Cox’s Bazar Bangladesh