UN appeals to Indonesia to rescue stranded Rohingya refugees as situation nears crisis

The boat, carrying the refugees—including women and children—has been anchored near Aceh province for days, sparking concern for their safety and well-being.

The Rohingya, a heavily persecuted ethnic Muslim minority in Myanmar, frequently risk their lives on perilous sea journeys, attempting to reach safer shores like Malaysia or Indonesia. Many flee from dire conditions in Myanmar, where they face severe discrimination and violence.

The stranded boat, first anchored about four miles (six kilometres) off Aceh’s coast, was pulled closer to shore on Monday by a relief vessel, now just a mile away. However, the refugees remain in limbo, awaiting further action.

"UNHCR urgently appeals to the authorities to ensure rescue at sea and safe disembarkation for this desperate group," said Faisal Rahman, UNHCR protection associate in Indonesia. "UNHCR and partners stand ready to support and to provide much-needed assistance for these vulnerable people," Rahman added in a statement late Monday, October 21.

The situation on board is becoming increasingly dire. According to local officials in South Aceh, at least one refugee has died, while five others were evacuated for medical treatment at a nearby hospital last Thursday, October 17.

Yuhelmi, a spokesperson for South Aceh district, explained that local authorities are waiting for immigration officials to arrive before deciding on the next steps. "Locals were waiting for immigration officials to arrive before any decision on their next steps was made," he told AFP.

Rahman confirmed that negotiations between the UN and the Indonesian government are ongoing. However, Indonesia, not being a signatory to the UN refugee convention, has been cautious about taking in refugees, instead calling on neighbouring countries to share the responsibility of resettling Rohingyas who reach its shores.

While many people in Aceh, having lived through their own struggles during decades of conflict, are sympathetic to the Rohingya's plight, some express frustration. They argue that the refugees put a strain on local resources and have occasionally clashed with locals.

In December 2023, tensions reached a peak when hundreds of students forced the relocation of more than 100 Rohingya refugees, storming a function hall in Aceh where they were being sheltered and kicking their belongings.