Myanmar’s Rakhine State represents a challenging mix of conflict, inter-communal tension, centre-periphery grievances and economic under-development. The state remains one of the poorest areas in the country, and limited employment opportunities have resulted in significant out-migration. Relations between the Rakhine majority and the Muslim minority remain fragile. In the second half of 2017, renewed violence forced approximately 700,000 Rohingya to flee across the border with Bangladesh. Prospects for immediate large-scale refugee return remain elusive. Systemic discrimination against the Muslim minority – the vast majority of whom are stateless – persists, and more than 120,000 remain in squalid IDP camps in central Rakhine. Even beyond the camps, the community continues to face severe movement restrictions, with limited access to health, education and livelihood opportunities. An informal ceasefire between the de facto authorities and the Arakan Army has created a degree of stability in central and northern Rakhine. But the situation is fragile, and a resumption of hostilities would have significant negative impacts on the population. There are also more than 100,000 IDPs from the AA-Tatmadaw fighting in 2019-20, and who could seek to return to their place of origin if conditions allow. For the UN and other international actors on the ground, Rakhine represents a challenging operational environment. In the northern part of the state, access remains limited – reducing the ability to collect data, conduct comprehensive assessments and deliver services to affected communities. In the central and southern parts of the state, access is better, although recent restrictions in central Rakhine have generated new challenges, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation. For detailed information, please see Terms of Reference attached.
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