By Roy Lie Atjam
On January 27, 2026, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in The Hague proudly hosted an important diplomatic exchange titled “Interaction with the Legal Team of The Gambia and the Rohingya Victim Delegation.”
This event coincided with the merits hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the case of genocide (The Gambia v. Myanmar), supported by 11 intervening states.
The diplomatic exchange, conducted by Mr. Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, at the Embassy of Bangladesh, provided a dignified and interactive platform for dialogue on accountability, justice, reparations, and durable solutions for the Rohingya people, against the backdrop of the ongoing ICJ proceedings. It was convened as part of Bangladesh’s continued engagement in international efforts to address the grave atrocities committed against the Rohingya population in Myanmar. The venue was filled to capacity with ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed guests.
The program featured screening of the short documentary “From Atrocities to Survival: Justice Journey of Rohingya Victims”, followed by interactive discussions with Rohingya representatives and legal experts. Ms. Antonia Mulvey, Founder and Executive Director of Legal Action Worldwide, highlighted victims’ expectations from the Court and the significance of international legal processes in advancing justice for survivors of mass atrocities.
Legal experts from the Legal Team of The Gambia provided insights into the merits phase of the ICJ proceedings. Mr. M. Arsalan Suleman of Foley Hoag LLP outlined the structure and progress of the case, while Mr. Paul S. Reichler of 11 King’s Bench Walk Chambers elaborated on the arguments presented and the remedies sought before the Court under the Genocide Convention.
In his remarks, Mr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Director General (Myanmar Wing), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, reaffirmed Bangladesh’s unwavering commitment to addressing the Rohingya crisis. He emphasized Bangladesh’s continued humanitarian support to over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and reiterated the country’s call for early and safe repatriation, alongside accountability for international crimes committed against the Rohingya.
The evening concluded with closing remarks by H.E. Mr. Dawda Jallow, Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Republic of The Gambia, who reaffirmed The Gambia’s resolve to pursue justice on behalf of the Rohingya people through international legal avenues and emphasized the importance of sustained international solidarity.
The diplomatic exchange underscored the collective commitment of Bangladesh, The Gambia, and the international community to upholding international law, supporting victims of atrocity crimes, and advancing accountability for genocide and related.
