The Emergency Multi-Sector Rohingya Crisis Response Project (EMCRP), funded by the World Bank, has been a lifeline for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox’s Bazar. At its core, the Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) has led transformative change through its innovative Communication and Awareness Services (CAS). Empowering Youth: Future Leaders in Action Youth engagement under EMCRP has demonstrated the transformative power of communication. Events like “Interaction with Youth and Adolescents” motivated young participants to take responsibility for community resources, including roads and cyclone shelters. Activities such as music, sports, and art competitions fostered awareness and strengthened bonds between Rohingya and host community youth. Radio: Bridging Communities on Air and Online Radio programs on Radio Today and Community Radio Naf effectively delivered important messages on disaster preparedness, hygiene, and public resource use. Combining local dialect broadcasts on air and social media also with offline listening sessions, these initiatives empowered communities to adopt sustainable practices and build resilience. Interactive Theater: Messages That Resonate Interactive theater brought EMCRP’s communication to live with relatable dramas, music, and audience discussions. These performances highlighted the responsible use of facilities like roads and cyclone shelters, sparking dialogue and strengthening ties between residents and service providers. Folk Songs and Grassroots Mobilization Traditional folk songs under EMCRP added cultural depth to public service messages, creating an emotional connection. Complemented by courtyard meetings, street dramas, and a photo exhibition attended by over 400 very important stakeholders, this approach successfully bridged communities and reinforced collective responsibility. Media Engagement: Amplifying the Message Through strategic media mobilization, EMCRP’s communication reached broader audiences. Journalists shared impactful stories based on firsthand experiences with beneficiaries, inspiring widespread awareness and support for EMCRP’s goals. Transforming Lives: Measurable Impact • Awareness: Over 99% of camp residents and all host community members are now familiar with EMCRP initiatives.
• Preparedness: Cyclone warning knowledge rose to 98% in camps and 94% in host communities.
• Responsibility: More than 75% pledged to maintain public facilities. Finally, the communication efforts under EMCRP have successfully fostered behavioral change, strengthened social cohesion, and promoted resilience. This serves as a testament to how evidence-based communication can drive meaningful, lasting impact in humanitarian contexts.