Govt Plans to Use $46 Billion in Foreign Aid for Reserves

Sweden is supporting the 5.8 million flood-affected individuals in eastern Bangladesh with $1.85 million (Tk 22.2 crore) in humanitarian assistance, channeled through organizations like the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Islamic Relief, Danish Refugee Council (DRC), and Action Against Hunger (AAH).

The World Bank will provide Tk 250 million to the health ministry to support the medical needs of critically injured individuals from the July-August student protests. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) is working with hospitals to identify necessary medical equipment and treatment facilities, using the funds to purchase supplies instead of direct cash assistance.

The United States has announced nearly $199 million in new assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, as revealed by Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya during a United Nations General Assembly side event on September 24. 

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has committed over $200 million to aid Bangladesh’s development, with a focus on youth empowerment, strengthening democracy, and improving governance. The agreement, signed between USAID and Bangladesh's Economic Relations Division (ERD), aligns with the interim government's priorities of inclusive growth and economic stability.

Japan has allocated $2 million to the Japan Platform for flood relief in Bangladesh, supporting various sectors through NGOs. Japanese Ambassador Iwama Kiminori and Lt Gen (ret.) M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury discussed the aid on September 4, 2024. Japan also expressed interest in assisting with flood forecasting and damage assessment. The Japanese government has concerns about the safety of its citizens and projects in Bangladesh, and has urged improvements in the law-and-order situation, particularly in Rohingya camps.

Severe flash floods in southeastern Bangladesh have affected over 5.82 million people, leaving many without shelter, healthcare, or basic supplies. The floods, intensified by climate change, have overwhelmed major rivers and caused widespread devastation.