The European Union and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have announced an additional €14 million (around Tk 200 crore) in aid for Rohingya refugees living in Ukhiya and Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. The announcement was made on June 18, 2026, ahead of World Refugee Day. The funding aims to sustain emergency assistance and protection programs for 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and to support local host communities.

According to the EU and UNHCR, the new funding will benefit both refugees and at least 70,000 Bangladeshis by expanding skill development programs and access to clean cooking fuel (LPG). EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller said the EU remains committed to supporting both refugees and host communities, emphasizing the need to focus on education, skills, and livelihood opportunities. UNHCR Representative Ivo Freijsen highlighted the importance of continuous support for Rohingya families enduring hardship for nine years.

The initiative seeks to uphold refugees’ dignity, enhance self-reliance, and prepare them for voluntary, safe, and dignified return to Myanmar. It is part of the 2025–2026 Joint Response Plan, which requires $710 million to meet urgent needs of 1.2 million refugees until repatriation becomes possible.