Tahsan reappointed as UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador

Popular singer and actor Tahsan Khan has been reappointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), marking a continuation of his role with the organisation. His contract was officially renewed on Wednesday (April 22).

Reflecting on the Rohingya crisis, Tahsan said it has been nine years since refugees fled Myanmar seeking safety in Bangladesh. “Until a sustainable solution is found, we must remain compassionate towards their suffering,” he said.

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He added that his interactions with displaced families, many of whom have endured profound loss, have been deeply moving. “Their resilience inspires me. I want to share their stories with the world,” he said.

Tahsan was first appointed as UNHCR’s Goodwill Ambassador in Bangladesh in 2021. Since then, he has been actively involved in raising awareness, promoting public engagement, and advocating for refugee rights.

UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh Ivo Freijsen described Tahsan as a committed voice for refugees. He said the organisation is proud to extend his tenure and looks forward to continuing collaboration in promoting protection and hope for displaced communities.

Over the past few years, Tahsan has participated in various UNHCR activities in Cox’s Bazar, including visiting refugee camps, engaging with communities, and taking part in global awareness initiatives such as World Refugee Day. He also visited areas affected by a major fire in the camps in 2025.

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Speaking about the experience, Tahsan said he had witnessed firsthand the devastating impact such incidents can have on thousands of lives, describing the fire as a stark reflection of the Rohingyas’ ongoing hardships.

He noted that many refugees he met expressed a desire to return safely to their homeland. “Until that becomes possible, we must stand by them and ensure support, protection, and life-saving services,” he said.

Currently, around 1.2 million Rohingya refugees are living in Bangladesh, most of them in 33 densely populated camps in Cox’s Bazar, one of the largest refugee settlements in the world.

Tahsan is among 36 UNHCR Goodwill Ambassadors globally, who play a key role in building public support and raising awareness about the needs and rights of displaced people.