Why is Malaysia sending back Rohingya refugees to Myanmar?
Malaysia is sending Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar, and the move is drawing criticism. Kuala Lumpur describes the returns as voluntary, saying those leaving have agreed to go. Rights groups and others question whether anyone can consent freely from inside a camp. Conditions in Myanmar's Rakhine State remain dangerous, with fighting between the army and armed groups near the areas where the Rohingya live. The group is stateless under Myanmar law and has endured decades of persecution. Malaysia hosts one of the largest Rohingya populations in the region, with well over a hundred thousand people registered with the UN. Critics warn the returns could breach international commitments and want the process paused pending a review.
Kuala Lumpur calls it a voluntary process, but many are raising safety concerns.