Bangladesh transition an “historic opportunity” for inclusive governance anchored in human rights and rule of law: Report…

Last updated on August 17th, 2024 at 06:06 am

The UN Human Rights office issued a preliminary report on protest and unrest in Bangladesh recently that states, “The transition ahead presents an historic opportunity to reform and revitalise the country’s institutions to restore fundamental freedoms and civil space, and give all in Bangladesh a part in building the future.”

The Human Rights Council chief Volker Turk said, “Accountability for violations and justice for the victims are key for the way forward and will need to be accompanied by a national healing process. A comprehensive, impartial, and transparent investigation into all human rights violations and abuses that have occurred will be a critical first step.”

There was a massacre that left thousands dead and over a few hundred deaths including at least 32 children deaths. It started after the reinstatement of a quota system for allocation of civil service positions, initially protests that were peacefully led by students but turned horrific and led to a bloodbath of youth and civilians mass murdered by the government security forces and army during the clash.

Following the resignation of the Sheikh Hasina government on 5th Aug 2024, there were reports of looting, and attacks on members of religious minorities as well as revenge killings of the erstwhile govt members, artists, and security officials. On 15th Aug, mobs armed with bamboo sticks, iron rods and pipes assaulted supporters of former PM Sheikh Hasina. Journalists were threatened and prevented from filming the whole incident.

The report emphasises the importance of rapidly restoring law and order and the need for effective measures to prevent further loss of life, violence, and property. 

The high commissioner also announced that a team would visit Dhaka next week to explore areas where the UN Human Rights Office can support the transition along with delving into a thorough investigation regarding human rights violations in the country during the student protest.