The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Kelly Anne Eccles-Curry, has commenced an official visit to Bangladesh to assess the impact of Myanmar's deteriorating human rights situation. The visit, which began on Wednesday (11 November), will continue until 18 November.

Meeting with Foreign Ministry Secretary

On the first day of her visit, Eccles-Curry met with Md. Nazrul Islam, Secretary (Bilateral Affairs) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the meeting, she stressed the need for continued international attention to the plight of the Rohingya and emphasized efforts toward a lasting solution to the protracted crisis. The Foreign Ministry issued a statement in the afternoon confirming that this is the Special Rapporteur's first visit to Bangladesh since assuming her new role.

New Mandate and Significance of the Visit

Eccles-Curry was appointed by the UN Human Rights Council in March of this year and assumed her duties in May. Her visit to Bangladesh comes as she faces barriers to entering Myanmar, making this trip a crucial opportunity to evaluate the ground realities of the Rohingya crisis. The visit is viewed as part of ongoing cooperation between Bangladesh and the UN human rights body.

International Focus on Rohingya Crisis

The Special Rapporteur's visit coincides with a period of continued deterioration of human rights conditions inside Myanmar and a stalled repatriation process for Rohingya refugees. Her remarks reflect the UN's sustained commitment to addressing the crisis. During her stay, she is expected to engage with government officials, human rights organizations, and Rohingya refugees.