Cox’s Bazar Peace Index 2023

In partnership with BRAC Advocacy for Social Change (ASC), the project analysed 1268 survey respondents from the host and Rohingya communities of Ukhiya and Teknaf to measure the degree of peace or brewing discontent among different communities and areas. 

Background: In August 2023, the world marked the sixth anniversary of the Myanmar government’s massive offensive against the Rohingya people, leading to the displacement of nearly a million refugees who sought shelter in neighboring Bangladesh. As of January 31, 2023, there were 954,707 Rohingya refugees residing in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar district. This sudden population increase strained the region’s limited resources, exacerbated by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising food prices, and a lack of employment opportunities, which, in turn, caused increased discontent and stress in both Rohingya and host communities. In addition to these challenges, the region witnessed a significant rise in drug trade and crimes in recent years. Cox’s Bazar is also prone to frequent natural disasters, including monsoon rains, cyclonic storms, landslides, and flash floods. The escalating impacts of global climate change are expected to further increase the region’s vulnerability, adding to the tension and stress experienced by both communities.

The mass displacement of people significantly affects the overall peace situation of the host nation, influenced by various factors, including the context of the refugee situation, the host country’s response, and the existing social, economic, and political conditions. Hosting refugees can have both positive and negative effects on a host nation’s peace. While it may strain resources and infrastructure, it can also contribute to economic growth and cultural diversity, fostering social cohesion and enhancing overall peace. To better understand and address these complex issues, a study aimed to develop the ‘Cox’s Bazar Peace Index 2023,’ the first of its kind for Bangladesh. This index, based on survey responses from both host and Rohingya communities in Ukhiya and Teknaf, measures the degree of peace or brewing discontent among different communities and areas.

The project, with a duration from February 2023 to December 2023, is in partnership with BRAC Advocacy for Social Change (ASC). For communication and further details, please reach out to Dr. Saima Khan at ([email protected]).