Gender Alert on Fire in Kutapalong and Balukali Camps

Issue 1: Ensuring a Gender-Responsive Humanitarian Response

On the afternoon of March 22, 2021, a massive fire broke out in the Rohingya refugee camps in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. The fire quickly spread across three camps consuming shelters and personal belongings of refugees as well as essential facilities such as hospitals, primary health facilities, learning centers, and women friendly spaces in the camps. More than 48,000 individuals have been affected by the fire. Many are staying with relatives or in learning and transit centers which are accommodating the most vulnerable people. The Cox’s Bazar Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group (GiHA WG) is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of the Rohingya refugees affected by the massive fire. 

This Gender Alert serves as a guide for stakeholders to integrate gender equality commitments across the fire response and to address the specific needs of vulnerable Rohingya refugees living in the affected areas while maintaining COVID-19 prevention measures. It focuses on the promotion of a Gender-Responsive Humanitarian Response that places the needs and dignity of women, girls, men, and boys at the centre. It concludes with a set of recommendations for all stakeholders involved in the fire response.