The United Council of Rohingya (UCR) has stated that the ongoing hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case between The Gambia and Myanmar represent a historic and crucial moment for the Rohingya people. According to a statement released by UCR on January 25, the hearings are vital for achieving justice, recognition of identity, protection of rights, dignity, and the right to return safely to their homeland.
UCR expressed special gratitude to the Government of The Gambia and its legal team, noting that bringing the case before the ICJ has demonstrated the importance of humanitarian principles and international law. The statement also praised the inclusion of the Rohingya people’s lived realities and experiences as the factual basis of the case.
The statement strongly condemned the Myanmar military junta for presenting false claims before the ICJ and for denying Rohingya identity. It further pointed out that hate speech and incitement with genocidal intent have fueled acts of violence against the Rohingya.
In addition, UCR expressed appreciation to Bangladesh for hosting and caring for more than one million Rohingya refugees. At the same time, it voiced concern that Rohingya people continue to suffer due to violence by armed groups, including the Arakan Army (AA), in Rakhine State.
Finally, UCR emphasized that Myanmar has not yet created conditions for the safe and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya, noting the absence of guarantees for citizenship rights and security. The organization expressed hope that the ICJ will deliver a binding ruling that holds those responsible for genocide accountable.
