In a significant visit that underscores global solidarity and awareness, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and Swedish Crown Princess Victoria recently toured the Rohingya camp in Ukhia, Cox’s Bazar. The visit, which took place on Wednesday, March 20th, highlights the ongoing humanitarian efforts and the critical situation faced by Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

Swedish Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria, wearing UNDP jacket

A Warm Welcome and Insightful Observations

Upon her arrival at the camp in the afternoon, Princess Victoria was warmly greeted by officials including the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner, Md. Mizanur Rahman, among others. Her visit started at Camp 4 Extension’s UNHCR registration and food distribution E-voucher center, followed by interactions at the UN Women and UNFPA-managed Multi-Purpose Women’s Center in Camp-4, where she engaged in conversations with Rohingya women.

Engaging with Empowerment and Cultural Preservation Efforts

Princess Victoria’s schedule also included visiting training programs for skills development managed by UNHCR in Camp-5, observing a bakery and a handicraft processing center run by women. Furthermore, she explored the UNDP-led disaster risk reduction and the IOM-managed Rohingya Cultural Memory Center, showcasing her deep interest in the empowerment and cultural preservation of the Rohingya community.

Panoramic view of Rohingya camps. (Picture collected)

The Broader Context of the Visit

This visit is part of Princess Victoria’s five-day tour of Bangladesh, marking her first visit to the country since her appointment as UNDP Goodwill Ambassador in 2023. Her journey aims to shed light on the vital work being done to support and empower the Rohingya community, alongside evaluating and promoting sustainable solutions for their plight.