The Rohingya are Sunni Muslims who have lived in Myanmar since the 15th century. They are not recognized by the Myanmar government and have faced discrimination for generations. In 1962 their rights were limited, and today they are denied citizenship.

Following the rape and murder of a Buddhist in 2012 by a Rohingyan, revenge attacks began on innocent people. Thousands of Rohingya fled at that time. Over the years, systematic attacks on villages has continued, perpetrated by Buddhists.

In protest of the violence against them, Rohingya militants attacked a border outpost and 9 officers were killed. As a result, the government burnt villages, killed thousands and engaged in “systematic rape of women and girls.”

Those involved justified their violence by saying the Rohingya are terrorists.  Doctors without Borders reports that half a million Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh since the end of August.

• Conditions are dire for these refugees, most of whom have little or no access to safe water, essential supplies, or medical care.
• There is severe malnutrition.
• Many arrive with serious wounds from Myanmar soldiers or land mines.
• Many have lost at least one loved one. The atrocities continue with many arriving in Bangladesh unable to speak because of the horrors they have experienced.
• Due to lack of sanitation and poor health, there is fear of an epidemic.