Rohingya Photographers: Lens for Social Change : Photovoice and Social Media from the Refugee Camps in Bangladesh

Abstract: This degree project explores the role of Rohingya photographers in the refugee camps in Bangladesh and their use of visuals and social media as tools for communication for development and social change. The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim community, have faced discrimination and persecution for decades in Myanmar, which has resulted in their displacement to Bangladesh. The study argues that these Rohingya photographers challenge the binary representation of refugees in mainstream media as threats or victims by portraying the community as proactive and caring. They have made an impact by reaching thousands of people through their collective activism on social media and photography projects, and have also fought for their rights to be credited and paid for their published work. The research is relevant in the context of the increasing number of refugees worldwide and the need to challenge negative perceptions and promote inclusivity. The methodological approach includes online interviews, virtual research, and photography semiotic analysis. The findings highlight the photographers' efforts to improve their situation, preserve their collective memory, and achieve participation, despite their lack of rights and the dire situation in the refugee camps in Bangladesh.