NEWSLETTER DETAILS
News Briefs (April 2024)
Our News Briefs bring you the latest highlights from the advocacy efforts of APRRN and our members, as well as keeping you informed on upcoming events and activities. We strive to provide regular updates on the network’s activities and developments in the refugee protection sphere, alongside the emerging political climate in the Asia Pacific region. We welcome contributions from members! Please share your updates, information, or resources with Ali at msco@aprrn.org
Visit in Kuala Lumpur
From 18 -24 April, Klaus went to Kuala Lumpur to meet with several policy and decision makers, and current and prospective APRRN members. He met with the High Commissions of Australia and New Zealand to reiterate the recommendations delivered to government officials during the Australia advocacy and fundraising trip in March, with a specific focus on Malaysia, including Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship from 1 January 2025 and whether there are openings for concerted advocacy by APRRN.
He also met with UNHCR Malaysia, Charles Santiago, the Chair of the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights, and some women’s refugee-led groups who are part of the University of New South Wales (UNSW)-led project of empowering refugee women in Malaysia and Indonesia, a project where APRRN is a partner. They discussed the current challenges and opportunities and potential future collaboration and where APRRN can add value. He also had a chance to meet APRRN members Hasan Al-Akraa from Asylum Access Malaysia and Lilliane Fan and Omar Al Khammash from the Geutanyoe Foundation.
Rohingya Belonging, and Southeast Asia's Responsibility on 25 April
Hafsar supported and facilitated the webinar organised by our member organisation, the Rohingya Maiyafuinor Collaborative Network [RMCN] to address the protection challenges of Rohingyas in South East Asia and their obligation to protect Rohingyas.
Visiting an APRRN member in NZ
Hafsar participated in the 20 anniversaries of the Canterbury Refugee Councils, one of our member organisations from New Zealand. It was the opportunity to reconnect with the members and other agencies in the refugee resettlement sector in New Zealand and seek and promote the opportunities in future and current collaboration between APRRN, members, and other refugee resettlement agencies.
Members Spotlight!
Nice Foundation
The Nice Foundation is a rights-based feminist NGO in Bangladesh working on a range of human rights, refugee and forcibly displaced communities, environmental and educational issues, and seeking to reduce inequalities and social disadvantage. We focus primarily on women, children, youth, adolescents, and people with disabilities, gender-diverse communities, religious and ethnic minority groups, and the refugee community.
Nice Foundation sees all the activities through a feminist lens. The approach has always been to empower communities to organise themselves and assert their rights, use their skills to develop their livelihoods, educate their children, and look after those who are not able to look after themselves. Nice Foundation helps with organisation, education, capacity-building, and training; can bring in resources to kick-start change; and can campaign and influence those whose decisions determine the communities’ future. Visit the Website
The LEVEL UP — SRHR for women and LGBTIQ+ forcibly displaced persons in Thailand Workshop brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, and UN agencies to discuss sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for Thailand’s forcibly displaced communities. Preceded by a community consultation in November 2023, the workshop addressed challenges faced by refugees, particularly in light of the increasing number of displaced persons seeking refuge in Thailand, driven by factors such as civil wars and persecution. Strategies were proposed to address SRHR concerns, including leveraging community capacities, recognising migrants as valuable human capital, and advocating for comprehensive immigration and refugee frameworks that prioritise inclusivity. The outcome of the workshop will inform a Call to Action to be submitted to the Thai Government through the Prime Minister’s Office, urging the implementation of pledges made at international forums and the adoption of inclusive immigration and refugee policies. Read More Here
One Rohingya refugee's tale of survival: The story of Noor Azizah • FRANCE 24 English
Noor Azizah, a former Rohingya refugee and co-founder of the Rohingya Maiyafuinor Collaborative Network told her story to FRANCE 24 about how she fled Myanmar as a child with her family, and t how heartbreaking it is to see what has happened to her people since. She and her siblings have all made successful careers for themselves outside of Myanmar, but she spoke about her life as a child feeling extremely afraid, hiding from police in the jungles of Malaysia, and having no access to education. Read More Here
Fortify Rights has called for an investigation into and accountability for Bangladeshi officials who have been reportedly beating and forcibly returning Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, where they face ongoing persecution, human rights violations and violence. Recent research by Fortify Rights highlights instances where Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) forces have allegedly beaten and pushed back over 300 Rohingya refugees since February 2024. Despite being aware of the dire situation in Myanmar, Bangladesh continues to engage in these pushbacks, with BGB officials accused of beating refugees. Survivors recount harrowing experiences of violence and pleading to enter Bangladesh for safety, only to be met with rejection and brutality. Amidst increasing human rights violations and risks in Myanmar, with the military imposing mandatory conscription on citizens, Fortify Rights emphasises the urgent need for international action to protect vulnerable populations, such as the Rohingya. The organisation also urges Bangladesh to halt these pushbacks, investigate reported abuses, and collaborate with international bodies to ensure justice and protection for displaced persons and undocumented migrants on their territory. Read More Here
The Bangkok Urban Community Club (BUCC) is dedicated to supporting the refugee community in Thailand. BUCC offers a variety of educational programs, both on-site and online, equipping refugees with essential skills. These programs include English language acquisition, basic math, computer literacy, and teacher training. By empowering refugees to navigate daily life in Thailand, access essential services and participate in the workforce, BUCC contributes to their overall well-being and empowers them to reach their full potential. Furthermore, BUCC offers a sense of community through cultural exchange and social support groups. These flexible learning opportunities empower refugees to not only survive but thrive in their new home. Read More Here
NEWS FROM THE REGION
Pakistan:
Every day, hundreds arrive at the Inzargai refugee registration centre in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, after a wave of mass expulsions by the Pakistani government that began last November. These concerning developments in Pakistan are just one illustration of how governments around the world are weaponising anti-refugee and anti-immigrant rhetoric. Read More Here
The Pakistani federal cabinet has granted approval for the extension of the validity of Proof of Registration (POR) cards for Afghan refugees in the country until June 30, 2024. UNHCR called for a longer period of extension to give greater security to Afghan refugees within Pakistan`s borders at a time when more than 500,000 undocumented Afghans have been forcibly returned to Afghanistan since October 2023. “The POR cardholders will be sent back in the third stage of the program to expel foreigners residing illegally in Pakistan,” according to a Ministry of Information statement. “
The announced second phase of deportations scheduled for April 2024, which would target Afghan Citizenship Card holders and undocumented Afghans was expected to begin in earnest after Eid (15 April 2024).
Indonesia:
Rohingya refugees’ risk dangerous sea route to Indonesia in search of safety and freedom
Earlier this year, UNHCR described such sea journeys as among the deadliest in the world, with estimates showing that one Rohingya died or went missing for every eight who attempted the journey in 2023. In the latest tragedy, a boat carrying 151 Rohingya refugees capsized off the coast of West Aceh on 20 March. Rescue operations were only able to save 75 of them. Read More Here
The Associated Press has interviewed eight surviving passengers who provided the first insights into what happened on board the boat before it capsized off the coast of West Aceh in March this year Rohingya survivors say the Indonesian captain raped girls and purposely sank the boat. Read More Here
Thailand:
On 24 April, five Special Rapporteurs and two working groups of the special procedures of the Human Rights Council issued an allegation letter to the Royal Thai Government regarding the 48 Uyghur refugees who have been held in incommunicado detention in Thailand for more than 10 years. The UN experts call on the Thai authorities to provide information on detention conditions as well as the legal basis for their “prolonged, incommunicado detention.” The letter also contains requests for information on the physical and mental well-being of detainees, their reported lack of access to adequate medical care, legal counsel, and their families. The letter urges the Royal Thai Government to investigate the five Uyghur deaths in Thai immigration detention. This letter comes a year after two of the men died in the Bangkok immigration detention centre, Suan Phlu. These deaths were investigated by the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand which found that medical services in detention were lacking and that the Uyghur refugees were being held contrary to international law.
The New Humanitarian has reported that UNHCR declined requests from the Royal Thai government to assist in resolving the situation of the 48 Uyghur refugees. According to the media outlet, internal documents from UNHCR in 2020, warned of potential ‘negative repercussions on UNHCR’s operation in China’ if the agency became more involved with the case. Read More Here
Thailand urges a ‘more proactive’ ASEAN to resolve Myanmar conflict
Thailand has urged the regional bloc ASEAN to play a more active role in addressing the crisis in Myanmar, following weeks of conflict near its border. Myanmar is currently embroiled in a civil war between the military regime and a coalition of ethnic minority armies and a resistance movement formed in response to the junta's crackdown on dissent after the 2021 coup. The fighting has disrupted trade and led to a temporary increase in refugees. Read More Here
India:
India’s Manipur State deported the first group of 38 Myanmar nationals who fled their country after the 2021 coup, according to a state minister. The state plans to deport a total of 77 people to Myanmar, and previously announced deportations had started in March, but these were delayed by fighting between junta forces and armed groups in Myanmar. Read More Here
Rohingya case brings India’s refugee policy under scrutiny
The Indian Central Government recently informed the Supreme Court that “illegal Rohingya immigrants” lack the fundamental right to reside in India and that UN-issued refugee cards are unrecognized. Rohingya settlements in various Indian states, notably Uttar Pradesh, face scrutiny. These legal battles underscore India's current refugee policy, with implications on a global scale. Amid rising anti-immigrant sentiments worldwide, it's imperative to uphold the refugee protection regime and combat xenophobia towards Rohingyas. Read More Here
Myanmar:
More than 3,000 people from Myanmar’s Karen State fled across the Moei River to Thailand in April, due to escalating fighting between the Myanmar military and ethnic groups around the town of Myawaddy. Thai authorities subsequently told the refugees it was safe to return home, but most of them remained in makeshift shelters near the riverbank on the Myanmar side, fearing further military attacks. Read More Here
The junta’s forced conscription of Rohingyas
In the latest manifestation of the civil war, the Three Brotherhood Alliance, composed of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Arakan Army, launched “Operation 1027”, named for the date 27 October 2023. Amid the developing situation, the Tatmadaw has sought to replenish its manpower losses by introducing conscription under the 2010 People’s Military Service Law. Under this measure, all men aged between 18 and 35 and all women aged between 18 and 27 are eligible for conscription for a period of two years, while professionals up to the age of 45 are required to serve in the military. Read More Here
As Crisis in Myanmar Worsens, Security Council Must Take Resolute Action to End Violence by Country’s Military, Address Humanitarian Situation, Speakers Urge.
The Security Council convened to address the escalating crisis in Myanmar, with speakers urging decisive action to halt violence perpetrated by the country's military and alleviate the worsening humanitarian situation. Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific, highlighted the urgent need for the release of detained leaders and emphasized the importance of respecting human rights. He also emphasized the appointment of a UN special Envoy to engage with stakeholders towards a Myanmar-led political solution. Lisa Doughten from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs detailed the dire humanitarian conditions, including widespread displacement, hunger, and disruptions to education. Despite calls for action, views within the Council varied, with some emphasizing the role of ASEAN in resolving the crisis. The United Kingdom and the United States called for immediate attention to the situation, condemning military airstrikes and advocating for restrictions on arms flow. On the other hand, Russia and China opposed using the Council to pressure Myanmar, asserting it as an internal issue and advocating for non-politicized discussions. Read More Here
Türk sounds alarm amid rising tensions in Rakhine
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has issued a warning regarding the escalated conflict in Rakhine State, Myanmar, between the military and the Arakan Army, exacerbating tensions between Rohingya and ethnic Rakhine communities. The breakdown of a year-long informal ceasefire has led to fighting in 15 out of Rakhine's 17 townships, resulting in numerous casualties and displacing over 300,000 people. Türk expressed grave concern that civilians, particularly Rohingya, are at significant risk, being caught between two armed factions with a history of violence against them. Read More Here
Malaysia:
In April 2024, significant developments unfolded in Myanmar, underscoring the urgency to address the ongoing crisis. Notably, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the United Nations Human Rights Council passed resolutions highlighting concerns over human rights violations by the State Administration Council (SAC) regime. The National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) held its second post-coup People’s Assembly, marking progress towards inclusivity with the participation of Rohingya representatives for the first time. However, the Rohingya's lack of citizenship rights remains a critical issue. Malaysia's Deputy Permanent Representative emphasised the need to address their marginalisation under international human rights law. Read More Here
The Malaysian government is upgrading three facilities to establish Baitul Mahabbah, dedicated to children under 10 whose parents are detained at immigration depots. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the allocation of RM10 million for facilities in Kelantan, Kedah, and Johor. These centers aim to provide a conducive environment and care for children, offering reading classes conducted by the Immigration Department. Saifuddin emphasized the humane approach and cost-effectiveness of upgrading existing premises rather than building new ones. Currently, there are three Baitul Mahabbah in operation, with a total capacity of 300 children. Despite criticism from human rights groups, Saifuddin remains committed to his efforts, stating that the government is responsive to concerns and plans to introduce three more facilities. Read More Here
UN experts: Bangladeshi workers must be protected from criminalization in Malaysia
UN experts have voiced concern over the plight of Bangladeshi migrants in Malaysia, highlighting the unsustainable and undignified conditions they face. Many migrants arrive in Malaysia expecting employment but find themselves without jobs, leading to visa overstays and risks of arrest, detention, and deportation. Criminal networks exploit migrants through fraudulent recruitment, forcing them into debt bondage with exorbitant fees. The experts condemned the involvement of high-level officials in these activities and called for accountability. They urged Malaysia and Bangladesh to investigate and address the situation, emphasizing the need for Malaysia to govern labor migration effectively and uphold human rights obligations. Read More Here
Bangladesh:
‘A living death’: Camp conditions push Rohingya to the high seas
Amid budget cuts and rising crime in refugee camps in Bangladesh and ongoing conflict in their native Rakhine state, more Rohingya refugees are undertaking dangerous boat journeys to Indonesia and Malaysia, where they face increasingly hostile receptions. The deteriorating situation in both Bangladesh and Rakhine, with funding cuts, rising crime, and renewed conflict, is prompting more Rohingya to seek refuge elsewhere despite the challenges they encounter in Indonesia and Malaysia. Read More Here
International:
Research Findings on Migrant Smuggling in Southeast Asia
A recent report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime has revealed concerning trends in migrant smuggling in Southeast Asia. Tens of thousands of migrants are smuggled annually due to violence, corruption, and limited regular travel options, often stemming from a lack of documentation. Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand are central states for both origin and destination of migrant smuggling within and outside Southeast Asia. Read More Here
Rohingya Repatriation: G7 countries call for creating conditions
Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries have issued a joint statement emphasizing the urgent need to facilitate the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees and displaced persons while ensuring justice and accountability for atrocities committed against Rohingya and other ethnic communities. The G7 reiterated their call on all states to prevent the flow of arms and other dual-use materials into Myanmar and urged the Myanmar military to immediately cease violence, release arbitrarily detained prisoners, and engage in inclusive dialogue to restore a democratic process. Read More Here
Reports & Publications
The report titled "My Tears Could Make a Sea" sheds light on the infliction of mental harm as a form of genocide against the Rohingya community. While genocide is commonly associated with mass killings, the Genocide Convention identifies causing serious bodily or mental harm as one of its prohibited acts. However, international tribunals have historically focused more on bodily harm, making mental harm a challenging aspect to define precisely. Conducted by Fortify Rights and the Lowenstein International Human Rights Clinic at Yale Law School, this study utilises quantitative data, survivor testimonies, and social science methodologies to examine how mental harm can be used to destroy a group, such as the Rohingya people. By applying the legal framework of genocide to this analysis of mental harm, the report addresses a pressing question: Is the Myanmar military culpable for inflicting serious mental harm on the Rohingya as part of a genocidal campaign to annihilate them as a community? Read More Here
UNHCR Global Consultations with NGO
NGOs and UNHCR are preparing for the 2024 Global Consultations on ‘Solutions, Inclusion, Gender Equality’ to be held in Geneva from 11 to 13 June 2024. The main outcome of the consultations will be a set of recommendations focusing on the specific themes addressed in each session. The joint recommendations will be presented to the 74th UNHCR Executive Committee (EXCOM), in October, as part of a report on the Consultations. Check the concept note. An APRRN delegation will be present and undertake joint advocacy, led by our chair, David Keegan.
The 20th International Association for the Study of Forced Migration Conference (IASFM20) will take place from January 21-23, 2025, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, hosted by Resilience Development Initiative – Urban Refugees Research Group (RDI UREF) in collaboration with the Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia. With the theme "Forced Displacement in an Urbanizing World," the conference aims to explore the complex intersections of forced displacement, urbanization, and urban studies. In response to the growing challenges faced by displaced communities in urban settings, the conference invites researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and individuals with lived experiences to submit proposals for organized panels, individual papers, poster presentations, and creative works presentations. The deadline for submission is May 31, 2024. Additionally, pre-conference workshops will be held on January 20, 2025, focusing on creative research methods, ethics, and design-led thinking in addressing forced displacement. Registration for the conference will open in July 2024, with travel subsidies available based on financial need. Read More Here
Awards and Scholarships
The inaugural Globethics Youth Leadership Award is introduced as part of Globethics' mission to foster ethical leadership for a fair, inclusive, and sustainable global community. Launched in commemoration of the organisation's 20th Anniversary, the award aims to recognise and empower young leaders worldwide who are dedicated to effecting positive, ethical change in their respective communities, institutions, societies, nations, regions, or globally over the next two decades. Applicants, aged between 18 and 30, are encouraged to apply if they have spearheaded initiatives demonstrating tangible societal impact aligned with one or more of Globethics' four key priorities. Winners of the award will have the opportunity to further develop their initiatives. The selection process will consider various criteria, including the initiative's contribution to Globethics' priorities, proven impact, innovative problem-solving, inclusivity, scalability, and replicability. Applicants are required to complete an application form and submit supporting documents, including a concept note, a 2-minute video presentation of their initiative, and two reference letters. Read More Here
Western Union Foundation Fellowship
The 2024 Western Union Foundation Fellowship, in partnership with the Watson Institute, is currently accepting applications! This fully-funded fellowship targets young entrepreneurs and community leaders from highly marginalised, refugee, and forcibly displaced communities globally. Over 16 weeks, participants will receive valuable skills and experience to enhance access to economic opportunities and accelerate their community impact. The program offers opportunities to secure seed funding, foster community integration, navigate evolving work landscapes, and create lasting change. Ideal candidates are entrepreneurs or community leaders in the Problem-Solution Fit or Product-Market Fit stages, committed to the full 16-week program, which includes a 2-week virtual immersive experience.
Funding Opportunities
NOFO: Creative Employment Solutions for Afghan Women
The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Mission Afghanistan is pleased to announce an open competition for eligible organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to empower Afghan women to conduct home-based, remote, and other creative employment arrangements tailored to fit the unique circumstances in Afghanistan.
Countries/Regions: Afghanistan
Area: Employment & Labor, Women & Gender
Deadline: Jun 21, 2024
Donor: U.S. Mission to Afghanistan
Grant Size: $500,000 to $1 million
The Refugee-led Innovation Fund is currently accepting applications from refugee-led organisations worldwide. This fund aims to empower displaced and stateless individuals by prioritising their creativity and involvement in humanitarian efforts, allowing them to spearhead the identification of needs and the development of innovative solutions. It offers comprehensive support, including financial resources, mentoring, and expertise, directly to refugee-led organisations to facilitate the implementation of impactful interventions within their communities. The fund proposes a grassroots approach, ensuring direct support to those with lived experiences of forced displacement, such as refugees, asylum-seekers, and internally displaced persons. Emphasising inclusivity, the fund encourages applications from underrepresented groups and offers various forms of support, including financial assistance, program management guidance, technical expertise, networking opportunities, and learning resources, to enable grantees to effectively implement and scale their innovative projects.
Deadline: 31 May 2024
Participate in the global innovation challenge, Together Towards Tomorrow, a joint effort by Ashoka and HSBC, seeking changemakers worldwide with initiatives that bridge generational gaps and empower young leaders. This innovation challenge is seeking innovative solutions fostering equitable collaboration, and connecting youth with their inner purpose. If your venture focuses on promoting social connections between generations, empowering youth leadership, and envisioning an alternative future, let's hear from you!
APRRN/MEMBERS’ JOB VACANCIES
Asylum Access Thailand is seeking: A Legal Advisor (ALRP-Mae Sot) APPLY HERE
Asylum Access Thailand is seeking: A Community Engagement Officer (livelihood), in Bangkok APPLY HERE
Asylum Access Thailand is seeking: A Legal Status Team Lead, in Bangkok APPLY HERE
Asylum Access is seeking: RRLI Director of Operations and Strategy, Remote APPLY HERE
Asylum Access Malaysia is seeking: A Human Resources Lead, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur APPLY HERE
Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) is seeking: an experienced and skilled Programme Coordinator to support the Rohingya Crisis Programme in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. APPLY HERE