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Statement by Ms Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh, on the fire in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh [EN/BN]

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DHAKA/COX’S BAZAR, 24 December 2024– UNICEF is profoundly saddened by the news that yet another fire broke out in the Cox’s Bazar refugee camps and claimed the life of one child. UNICEF sends its deepest condolences to the child’s family and loved ones.

While the fire was brought under control within hours, initial reports indicate that at least 800 shelters were fully destroyed or partially damaged. At least one learning centre and 17 community-based learning facilities were damaged or burned down.

UNICEF is on the ground assessing the full extent of the damage. Our foremost priority is to protect and provide support to the affected children and their families.

Rohingya refugee children, who have already endured unimaginable suffering since their families were forcibly displaced from their homes in Myanmar over seven years ago, deserve our full support and every means of help that we can provide. UNICEF will continue to work closely with local authorities, UN agencies and partners to meet the basic needs of these children and their families, and ensure they are safe and protected.

Media contacts

Syed Makhlesur Rahman

UNICEF in Bangladesh

Tel: +8801711882510

Email: smrahman@unicef.org

Sabrina Sidhu

Communication Specialist (Media)

UNICEF South Asia

Tel: +91 9384030106

Email: ssidhu@unicef.org