RINGO CD Forum Representatives to the Rohingya Coordination Team (RCT)

The Rohingya Coordination Team (RCT) serves as the strategic coordination, decision-making, and oversight forum for the overall Rohingya refugee response in Bangladesh. The RCT comprises six NGO representatives: two International NGOs, two National NGOs, and two Local NGOs.

The Convenor of the INGO Forum is facilitating the election process to select two (2) International NGO (INGO) representatives to the RCT. Members of the RINGO CD Forum are invited to submit nominations to participate in the election process, provided that their organisation meets the eligibility criteria outlined below.

Purpose of representation

Elected NGO representatives will provide operational guidance and strategic leadership, ensuring the voices of local, national, and international NGOs are reflected in high-level policy discussions. Responsibilities include:

• Setting strategic direction and operational priorities for the response. 
• Advocating on key policy issues with the Government of Bangladesh and donor partners.
• Providing oversight on cross-cutting priorities like Protection, Gender, and Accountability.

Eligibility

Nominated organisations must meet the following requirements:

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of the current context and operational landscape of the Rohingya response.
• Have a substantive operational presence in the Rohingya refugee response.
• Maintain permanent representation in Dhaka and be actively engaged in two or more sectors.
• Have Head of Office–level representation in Cox’s Bazar.
• Be willing and able to contribute to strategic leadership within the RCT.
• Have prior experience in coordination and representation roles.
• Commit approximately 5–10% of professional time to participate regularly in RCT meetings in person.
• Ensure regular consultation and information sharing with the broader NGO community in Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar.

Election procedure

The election will follow a structured process to ensure transparency and fair representation:

1. Call for nominations: Interested INGOs must submit their official nomination within the specified window.
2. Candidature review: The final list of candidates is confirmed following a designated withdrawal period.
3. Campaigning: Candidates are provided a set period to share their vision and strategic priorities with the wider NGO community.
4. Voting: The election is conducted digitally via the INGO Forum website.
5. Information sharing: Elected partners must ensure ongoing consultations and information sharing within the broader NGO community throughout their term.

Result

The election took place on 16 March 2026. According to the counted votes, Mr Manish Kumar Agrawal received the highest number of votes, followed closely by Ms Sumitra Mukherjee in second, and Ms Kabita Bose coming in third. Click here to learn about the nominated candiates.

Therefore, the elected representatives are:

1. Mr Manish Kumar Agrawal, Country Director, Concern Worldwide