The Daily Star published an op-ed titled “Rohingya repatriation must be voluntary” on January 25. The writer has raised some important points about the Rohingya repatriation process that, in my opinion, must be addressed. He rightly pointed out that Rohingyas were still trickling into the country which clearly points to the continuing repression by the Myanmar military and the Buddhist extremists. To prevent more atrocities, the UNHCR should oversee the entire process of repatriation. In addition, international aid organisations such as the Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders (MSF) should be involved in the process. If Myanmar restricts access to international bodies, then the option of third country resettlement for Rohingyas ought to be seriously considered. The international community has so far done nothing but fail the Rohingya people. They must open their doors now.

Mahmood Elahi, Canada