In a significant remark, the UN human rights chief, Volker Turk, disclosed that the United Nations had cautioned the Bangladesh Army against interference during the turbulent student protests of July-August 2024. If violence ensued, the Army risked exclusion from UN peacekeeping missions. Spurred by discontent, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement led protests that culminated in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after over 15 years in power. The interim government then embraced Muhammad Yunus as its Chief Advisor shortly after.
During a recent BBC HARDtalk interview, Turk highlighted Bangladesh as a case where UN intervention proved pivotal. He narrated, “During July and August, there were massive demonstrations of students. They had enough of the previous government.” He remarked on the significant repression faced by protesters, emphasising the UN’s role in shining a light on the situation and issuing a clear warning to the Army, which led to subsequent changes.
Upon Yunus’s ascendance, he sought Turk’s assistance for a fact-finding mission to probe the unrest further. Turk recounted his experience in Bangladesh with pride, noting how students expressed immense gratitude for the UN’s robust support during their struggle.
The UN’s fact-finding report, released in February, revealed that the protests from July 1 to August 15 led to devastating consequences. It reported around 1,400 fatalities, including numerous minority groups, and thousands more injured during what became a violent series of events rooted in the demand for change.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk revealed that the UN warned the Bangladesh Army against violence during the 2024 student protests, stating potential consequences for their participation in peacekeeping missions. These protests led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, followed by Muhammad Yunus assuming leadership of an interim government. Turk reported that a UN fact-finding mission was conducted, revealing extensive violence and casualties among the student protests.
The recent student protests in Bangladesh, which resulted in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, exemplify the profound impact that international bodies like the UN can have on national crises. The UN human rights chief Volker Turk underscored the importance of their intervention, highlighting the role of global voices in supporting oppressed groups. The consequent shifts in governance and calls for investigative efforts reflect the necessity of accountability in times of turmoil.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
