The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its leadership in the Rohingya humanitarian response by approving a new JPY 500 million (approximately USD 3.2 million) grant to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

According to a press release, this critical two-year funding comes at a time when the 2025-2026 Joint Response Plan is facing significant shortfalls, threatening the health and safety of over one million refugees and their host communities in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.

The Japanese contribution serves as a vital lifeline following a surge of 150,000 new arrivals since 2024, more than half of whom are women and girls.

Severe underfunding has already forced the closure of six government-run health facilities and led to a 16% reduction in the midwifery workforce.

Japan’s timely intervention will allow UNFPA to maintain 24-hour emergency obstetric care, mental health support, and gender-based violence (GBV) case management for approximately 180,000 direct beneficiaries.

“The Government of Japan’s continued partnership comes at a critical moment for women and girls in the Rohingya response,” said UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh Catherine Breen Kamkong.

“This funding will allow UNFPA to sustain life-saving services that protect the health and dignity of women and adolescents who would otherwise face devastating gaps in care. We are deeply grateful for Japan’s principled and consistent support.”

The partnership has already yielded tangible results, including the operationalization of a 20-bed hospital in Bhasan Char which significantly lowered maternal mortality rates.

Since 2017, Japan has contributed over USD 250 million to the Rohingya crisis through various UN agencies and NGOs, establishing itself as one of Bangladesh's most reliable humanitarian partners.

Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi expressed his hope that the support would improve living conditions for both refugees and host communities.

“Japan remains firmly committed to protecting the most vulnerable, particularly women and adolescents affected by displacement. Through our partnership with UNFPA, we aim to ensure continued access to essential health and protection services, even in the face of growing humanitarian and funding challenges,” said the Ambassador.