The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority from Rakhine State (historically called Arakan) in western Myanmar. They have their own language and culture, and their roots in the region go back generations. Myanmar’s 1982 Citizenship Law left them without recognised citizenship, which is why they are often described as one of the world’s largest stateless populations.
Key Takeaways
- The Rohingya come from Rakhine State (formerly Arakan), Myanmar, and speak their own language, Rohingya.
- They are stateless: Myanmar does not recognise them as citizens.
- Violence and persecution have forced large numbers to flee, most to Bangladesh, and others to Malaysia, the UK and elsewhere.
- The name “Rohingya” is itself disputed. Read more in what the word means.
Where do the Rohingya come from?
Rakhine State (formerly Arakan) lies on Myanmar’s western coast, bordering Bangladesh. The community traces its history there across generations, and it calls itself “Ruáingga”, a name linked to Rohang, an old name for the region.
Why are the Rohingya stateless?
Citizenship in Myanmar is tied to a list of officially recognised ethnic groups, and the Rohingya are not on it. Without citizenship, many face restrictions on movement, work, education and healthcare. This is a legal status problem, not only a humanitarian one.
Where do the Rohingya live now?
Many fled violence and now live in refugee settlements in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Others have moved to countries including Malaysia, and a smaller number have built lives in the UK. For the current situation, see the Rohingya refugee crisis in 2026.
Who are the Rohingya in the UK?
Rohingya families in the UK come from many different routes and backgrounds, and they are building community life here. Rohingya Association UK is a community-led charity: it exists to support Rohingya people and to share an accurate account of who they are. Read more about our charity.
Read more about Rohingya people in the UK and the support available here.
Learn more or help
- For history, identity and culture, read the full guide to the Rohingya people.
- For the meaning of the name, read what “Rohingya” means.
- To support our work, see our giving pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Rohingya Myanmar citizens?
No. Under Myanmar’s 1982 Citizenship Law they are not recognised, which leaves them stateless.
What language do the Rohingya speak?
They speak Rohingya, which is its own language.
Why do people call them “Rohingya” and “Ruáingga”?
They are two spellings of the same name. See what the word means.