Recent Rohingya arrivals in Sri Lanka: UNHCR commend life-saving action by Sri Lanka

On the recent Rohingya arrivals in Sri Lanka, UNHCR has commended the life-saving actions taken by the Sri Lankan authorities and people to rescue and safely disembark people distressed at sea. “We advocate for continued compassion and hospitality for these new arrivals. 

Many of them are vulnerable women and children who have risked their lives in desperation, often sailing for weeks on unseaworthy boats, in search of protection and safety,” UNHCR said.  

UNHCR’s priority is to ensure the new arrivals are safely disembarked and receive life-saving assistance. The Government authorities have identified temporary accommodation for them where they receive emergency assistance.   
UNHCR is coordinating with government, UN and NGO partners for protection and assistance of the new arrivals.