Prime Minister’s Defense Adviser A K M Shamsul Islam has described the Rohingya crisis as a major national security challenge for Bangladesh. He made the remarks on Sunday at a seminar organized by the Center for Genocide Studies under the University of Dhaka’s International Relations Department. ISPR disclosed the information in a press release on Monday.

In his closing address, Islam said the crisis should not be viewed solely as a humanitarian matter. He identified it as a growing threat to human security, national security, diplomatic relations and regional stability. He said the unplanned responsibility had become an increasing burden for Bangladesh over the past nine years.

He cited deteriorating security conditions among about 1.18 million Rohingya living in 33 camps in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char, saying six to 11 armed groups were active and drug trafficking, including yaba, continued. He also referred to more than 2,000 cases filed since 2017 and an alarming population growth rate. Islam said the government was pursuing the issue under a “Bangladesh First” policy combining humanitarian responsibility, national interest and continuous diplomatic engagement.