Since August 2017, more than 650,000 Myanmar nationals have arrived in the southern district of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh to escape violent conflict in their home country. The refugees have found shelter in makeshift settlements that have evolved into so-called Mega camps, but the pace and scale of the influx has added pressure on resources in the camp, making living conditions difficult - the camps are overcrowded, sanitation facilities are lacking, and there is very limited access to food and health services. Due to the high number of refugees arriving in such a short time, the situation in Bangladesh has spiraled into a humanitarian crisis.

In this interview, Malteser International’s Yvonne Dunton, 54, gives us an insight on what has been termed the world’s fastest-developing refugee emergency.

Ms. Dunton, Can you describe the current humanitarian situation for us?

Many of the refugees have suffered considerable loss and hardship before arriving in Bangladesh. Patients who come to our health centers tell us about their experiences. Some arrive with gunshot wounds and burns. I got to know Rajuma. She sustained serious burns all over her body, and was treated in our health facility. Her husband and four children were killed when her house was set on fire in an attack. She narrowly escaped with her 11-year-old daughter who also had serious injuries. Although her wounds are gradually healing, she remains traumatized by her experiences.