Experts called for a major overhaul in the funding structure, recommending that at least 50% of funds be directed to local NGOs
Despite a sharp decline in international support for managing the 11.56 lakh Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh, the government has increased its allocation by an unprecedented 263%, according to a new report by Coast Foundation.
The findings were revealed today (25 September) at a roundtable discussion titled “Affordable Rohingya Response Requires Local NGO Leadership” held at the National Press Club.
The report highlights a steep drop in donor contributions—US funding fell by 72% and UK support by 48%. Yet, the US remains the top donor, providing $85.28 million (24% of total), followed by the European Commission with $66.62 million (19%).
Till now, only 38% of the required funding for 2025 has been met, creating heavy financial stress in the eighth year of the crisis. Distribution disparities remain stark as international NGOs received 63.6% of the funds, national NGOs 33.9%, while local NGOs received only 2.5%.
Researchers argue that international agencies spend nearly 70% of their funds on management, whereas local NGOs can deliver services at far lower costs.
Experts called for a major overhaul in the funding structure, recommending that at least 50% of funds be directed to local NGOs, relocating UN and INGO offices away from Cox’s Bazar to cut management costs and increase investment in Rohingya livelihoods.
Nikhil Chandra Bhadra, coordinator of the Sundarbans and Coastal Protection Movement, said the host communities in Cox’s Bazar are facing livelihood crises while Rohingyas remain heavily dependent on foreign aid.
“With limited funds and reduced control for Bangladesh, it is critical that aid is channeled through local NGOs to ensure it reaches both refugees and locals,” he said. He urged the government to work closely with the UN and donors to ensure both continued support and speedy repatriation.
Coast Foundation’s Joint Director Mohammad Iqbal Uddin said, “Rohingyas were given shelter in 2017 on humanitarian grounds. But why should Bangladesh bear the entire burden amid a funding crisis? This is an international responsibility. Donor countries and the UN must equally share the costs and ensure repatriation.”
Director of Coast Foundation Mustafa Kamal Akhand criticised the lack of engagement from major powers saying, “All the burden has now fallen on Bangladesh. For seven years we have been saying—dignified repatriation is urgent. Without it, coexistence between locals and Rohingyas, as well as the environment, labour market, and education, will all come under serious strain. International agencies must act directly on repatriation and strengthen local capacities. We want Bangladesh to remain a dignified and peaceful nation.”
