Case for a UN Interim Administration in Rakhine

The article addresses the repatriation of the Rohingyas being negotiated between Bangladesh and Myanmar, after nearly 600,000 refugees crossed into Bangladesh within two months of 25 August 2017.

It argues: ‘However, mere repatriation, without addressing the causes that led to the persecution in the first place, will not guarantee the rights and safety of the returnees.’ It writes: ‘Therefore, the best possible way to ensure a lasting peace and reconciliation would be to establish a UN Interim Administration in the Rakhine.’

It proposes that the administration, supported by a UN Peacekeeping Force under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, as in East Timor and Kosovo, maintain peace and security, support humanitarian efforts and oversee implementation of the Kofi Annan Report.