Rohingya refugee volunteers, trained by UNHCR and partners, provide critical mental health and psychosocial support to nearly 1 million refugees in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. These efforts are transforming attitudes towards mental health within the community, offering coping techniques and individualized counseling. However, increasing violence, funding shortfalls, and the isolation of Bhasan Char pose significant challenges, threatening the progress made in mental health support. Continued funding is essential to maintain and expand these vital services.

The article details the dire conditions faced by Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, who have fled systemic violence in Myanmar. It describes the overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions in makeshift settlements, the urgent need for humanitarian aid, and the complex political dynamics hindering a resolution. Various international organizations and the Bangladeshi government are providing emergency support, but the scale of the crisis poses significant challenges. The article also highlights the emotional and physical toll on both the refugees and the relief workers assisting them.

The article delves into the dire conditions faced by Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, particularly in the Jamtoli settlement near Cox's Bazar. It describes the severe lack of basic necessities, rampant diseases, and the overwhelming challenges faced by humanitarian organizations. The piece highlights the systemic violence that drove the Rohingya from Myanmar, the international community's response, and the complex political dynamics hindering effective action. Aid workers express the emotional toll and logistical difficulties of providing relief, while the Bangladesh government maintains a strict no-resettlement policy, leaving the refugees in a state of prolonged statelessness and dependency.

Since late August, Burmese security forces have been conducting a violent campaign against the Rohingya in Rakhine, Myanmar, leading to over 389,000 refugees fleeing to Bangladesh. The Rohingya, a stateless minority, face severe persecution, including village burnings, looting, rape, and killings. The Myanmar government denies the scale of violence, labeling it as 'clearance operations,' while international bodies like the UN describe it as ethnic cleansing. Refugees recount harrowing journeys and atrocities, with many arriving in Bangladesh in dire conditions. The crisis has led to a significant humanitarian response, but the future of the Rohingya remains uncertain.

LGBTQ refugees face unique challenges during the resettlement process due to past trauma, discrimination, and trust issues. Heartland Alliance in Chicago provides a range of services to assist these individuals, but the transition can still be difficult. The article highlights the experiences of a gay Iraqi refugee, B.S., who navigated the complex UNHCR and USCIS systems to resettle in the U.S. Despite the hardships, LGBTQ refugees like B.S. demonstrate resilience and strength as they adapt to their new lives.

The Trump administration's travel ban, reinstated in a limited form, poses severe risks for LGBTQ asylum seekers from Muslim-majority countries, where homosexuality is punishable by death. The Supreme Court's decision to review the ban could lead to more restrictive measures. LGBTQ refugees face increased discrimination and rigorous vetting processes, making it harder to find safety. The article highlights the personal struggles of individuals like Omid, a gay asylum seeker from Iran, and the broader implications for LGBTQ refugees worldwide.

The Trump administration's travel ban, reinstated in a limited form, poses severe risks for LGBTQ asylum seekers from Muslim-majority countries, where homosexuality is punishable by death. The Supreme Court's decision to review the ban could lead to more restrictive measures. LGBTQ refugees face additional challenges due to new visa guidelines that do not recognize their partnerships, and the current political climate makes it harder for Muslim asylees to gain approval. The article highlights the personal struggles of Omid, a gay asylum seeker from Iran, and the broader implications for LGBTQ refugees.

LGBTQ refugees face unique challenges in the resettlement process due to past trauma and ongoing discrimination. Organizations like Heartland Alliance and UNHCR provide critical support, but issues of trust and re-traumatization persist. Personal stories, such as that of a gay Iraqi refugee in Chicago, highlight the difficulties and resilience of this community. Despite the support available, many LGBTQ refugees struggle with loneliness and alienation, underscoring the need for tailored assistance and community connections.

Paul Bloom, a Yale psychology professor, argues in his book 'Against Empathy: The Case for Rational Compassion' that empathy often leads to biased and unfair outcomes in society, including sexism, racism, and discrimination. He differentiates empathy from kindness and compassion, suggesting that the latter are more positive qualities. Bloom criticizes the use of empathy in politics, noting that it can be manipulated to favor certain groups over others. He cites Barack Obama as an example of someone who transcends empathic bias, advocating for understanding rather than empathy. The article also discusses how empathy was used in the presidential election, particularly by Donald Trump, to evoke certain responses from the electorate.

Yale psychology professor Paul Bloom argues that empathy, often seen as a virtue, can lead to biased and unfair decisions. In his book 'Against Empathy: The Case for Rational Compassion,' Bloom suggests that rational compassion is a better guide for moral actions. He differentiates empathy from kindness and compassion, which he views as more positive qualities. Bloom's perspective is discussed in the context of political arguments, highlighting how both liberals and conservatives use empathy to support their views. The article also touches on the role of empathy in identity politics and the recent U.S. presidential election.