In a heartfelt letter addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, various human rights organisations advocate for UN support for Bangladesh during a critical political transition. Following the removal of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government in August 2024, the country faces unprecedented changes, marred by violent protests and severe human rights abuses by security forces, as recognised by a February 2025 OHCHR report.
Amidst the urgency for reform, the interim government has a dwindling opportunity to enact substantial changes before impending elections. Notable reforms are essential to safeguard civic space, ensure justice, and enhance transparency and accountability. The letter calls for the suspension of all implicated security personnel from UN missions until proper screening is implemented, highlighting the need for accountability in security sector reform.
Concerns regarding the Rohingya refugee crisis have also drawn attention, especially as funding shortages threaten to reduce food voucher values significantly. The authors urge adequate resource allocation for UN agencies aiding Rohingya refugees and suggest high-level discussions to ensure humanitarian assistance and accountability in Myanmar, thus addressing decades of impunity.
The authors implore the UN to apply pressure on Bangladesh to implement several crucial recommendations aimed at ending human rights violations. This includes accountability for past abuses, independent investigations, amending the International Crimes Act to guarantee fair trials, and disbanding the notorious Rapid Action Battalion due to its history of violence.
Moreover, they advocate for revising existing oppressive laws restricting freedom and ensuring Rohingya refugees can receive necessary aid without facing coercive relocations. A focus on a gender-sensitive approach to reforms is also emphasised, recognising that human rights violations are not felt uniformly.
Through their impassioned plea, the signatories hope to ensure the people of Bangladesh, who have tirelessly pursued a better future, receive the international support necessary to foster democratic institutions and uphold human rights.
Human rights organisations urge UN Secretary-General António Guterres to support Bangladesh during its political transition, following the removal of the Awami League government. They highlight urgent reforms needed to address human rights abuses by security forces and the Rohingya refugee crisis. Key recommendations include suspending implicated forces from UN missions, disbanding violent units, and ensuring access to aid for refugees. A gender-sensitive approach to reforms is also advocated, aiming to foster a just democracy in Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Bangladesh while ensuring accountability for human rights violations. The plea highlights the plight of Rohingya refugees and calls for enhanced support from international bodies. The coalition of human rights organisations aims for a collaborative approach to create a just and rights-respecting future for Bangladesh, bridging gaps in governance and humanitarian assistance. The call for gender-sensitive measures further reflects an understanding of the diverse experiences within the population, targeting a holistic approach to reform.
Original Source: rfkhumanrights.org
