On 25 August 2017, the largest campaign of targeted violence by the Myanmar state security forces was unleashed against the Rohingya ethnic minority in Rakhine State, Myanmar. Over 700,000 people were forced to flee for their lives, crossing the border into Bangladesh. This was not the first campaign targeting the Rohingya, but it was by far the largest. Following these events, MSF documented 6,700 violent deaths among the Rohingya.

The Rohingya, one of the most persecuted minorities globally, have lived in Myanmar for centuries. Yet, they are effectively excluded from full citizenship, rendering them stateless. Today, more than 925,000 Rohingya reside in sprawling refugee camps, their lives in limbo. They escaped systematic raids, arson, and brutal violence at the hands of the Myanmar military and mob groups. Reports of rape, murder, and the violent displacement of people in such a short period of time make this exodus one of the largest in recent history.

For the Rohingya, leaving their homeland meant leaving behind friends, family, and a sense of belonging. Hindered by the lack of freedom, healthcare, and education, they risked everything to find safety in Bangladesh. However, the world often overlooks their names, faces, and stories, reducing them to mere numbers.

This photo story presents the fragmented memories of four Rohingya families. These families, each with their unique struggles, share a common thread - the few belongings they managed to gather before fleeing their homes. Amid the chaos, these possessions are the last remnants of their former lives, providing a glimpse into the everyday existence they once knew.

Assembled before the camera, the families stand with their cherished belongings, representing the memories, the dreams, and the hope for a better future. Through this vivid and powerful portrayal, the photo story aims to humanize the Rohingya experience, shedding light on their harrowing journey and the disruption of their lives. It is a testament to their resilience and a reminder of the empathy and understanding they deserve.

The photo story reveals the profound meaning behind the items they carry and the lives they left behind. Bearing witness to the resilience and strength of the Rohingya people, the photo story acknowledges the complexity of their plight and fosters compassion for their ongoing struggles.