Myanmar recognises 309,000 Rohingyas, signals phased repatriation

Myanmar has formally recognised 308,975 Rohingyas in Bangladesh as former residents of Rakhine State for the first time, signalling a possible phased repatriation once security and stability return to the conflict-hit region.

Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry said the figure was identified after reviewing a list of 828,824 people submitted by Bangladesh. However, it said 113,507 people could not be verified, while 4,241 were linked to alleged militant activities.

The recognition is being viewed as a potential diplomatic breakthrough, but major obstacles remain, including insecurity, citizenship concerns and the ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s military and the Arakan Army.

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Bangladesh has maintained that any repatriation must be voluntary, safe and sustainable, while Rohingyas have demanded guarantees of citizenship, security and basic rights before returning.