Return initiatives: proposed numbers and documented outcomes →
A military citizenship-scrutiny campaign in Myanmar sends roughly 200,000 Rohingya across the border into Bangladesh. Most later return under pressure and an agreement between the two countries.
The law creates citizenship categories that leave most Rohingya without a recognised path to full citizenship, reinforcing statelessness and restrictions on daily life.
Military violence and forced labour push around a quarter of a million Rohingya into Bangladesh. Repatriation follows, while a smaller refugee population remains.
Violence in Rakhine State kills and displaces people, while movement restrictions and confinement deepen for Rohingya communities.
Security operations in northern Rakhine State drive tens of thousands into Bangladesh and precede the far larger crisis of the following year.
After attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army and a sweeping Myanmar military response, mass killings, sexual violence, and village destruction force an enormous exodus.
Bangladesh and Myanmar pursue return arrangements. In August 2019, UNHCR reports that none of the refugees it has interviewed wishes to repatriate at that time.
Bangladesh starts moving Rohingya refugees from Cox’s Bazar to the island facility, prompting debate about consent, safety, services, and long-term policy.
Officials again explore returns to Myanmar. No large-scale voluntary repatriation follows, and refugees continue to demand safety, citizenship, and rights.
Fighting between Myanmar’s military and the Arakan Army displaces more people. By July 2025, UNHCR reports up to 150,000 arrivals over the preceding 18 months, adding pressure to an underfunded response.
A smaller US$710.5 million appeal, narrowed to essential, lifesaving support.
Malaysia proposed hosting Myanmar’s military leader to discuss return; how many Rohingya were in the first group was not established.
A UN side event addressed displacement, justice and accountability. Outcomes need to be tracked separately.
The scheduled transfer took place. Whether Rohingya were among the group remains unconfirmed.
A call for wider regional cooperation, with no completed return established by the statement.
Roy, Safen. “Chronology.” The Rohingya Permanence Project. Last reviewed 22 October 2026. https://rohingyabd.safenroy.com/chronology/
Please cite the original sources linked on this page for specific figures and statements.