Strengthening Resilience and Social Cohesion of Rohingya and Host Communities in Cox’s Bazar through Integrated Social Services and Improved Livelihoods

The project titled “Strengthening the Resilience of Host Communities in Cox’s Bazar through Enhanced Health, Livelihood, and Child Protection Services” aims to address vulnerabilities faced by host communities in Ukhiya and Teknaf, Bangladesh, in the context of the Rohingya influx and post-COVID-19 recovery. Implemented by Save the Children International in partnership with PHD, CNRS, and BITA, the project targets improvements in child protection, food security and livelihoods, and health services. This outcome assessment, conducted from a mixed-method approach, involved quantitative surveys with 1,100 respondents and qualitative interviews with beneficiaries and stakeholders, assessing the project’s effectiveness against baseline benchmarks.

Findings indicate a positive shift in community resilience. Livelihood support contributed to increased income levels, with beneficiaries citing skill training and small businesses as key factors. However, reliance on government livelihood services remains limited. In health, there is growing awareness and usage of maternal and postnatal services, with most women showing knowledge of family planning and a preference for district and upazila-level healthcare facilities. Yet, accessibility remains constrained due to systemic issues like lack of trained staff and poor logistics. Psychosocial wellbeing has improved, with trained healthcare providers delivering essential MHPSS and PFA services.

Child protection outcomes reveal that over 91% of respondents are now aware of child abuse, exploitation, and neglect, and over 65% noted a decrease in such incidents. However, early marriage and pressure on young girls to conceive persist. The study also highlights rising health risks linked to climate change, including increased skin diseases, dengue, and malaria.

The assessment recommends expanding outreach health services, improving training for health and government staff, strengthening MHPSS awareness, and tailoring ASRHR programs for youth. Sustained efforts in capacity building and community sensitization are essential for long-term impact.