UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urges accountability regarding the 2024 protest abuses in Bangladesh, highlighting the opportunity for nation-wide healing and reform. He emphasizes unity and the need for justice, while acknowledging the cooperation of the interim government in addressing human rights issues.
On Wednesday, during a presentation in Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk emphasized the necessity for accountability in addressing human rights violations connected to the protests in Bangladesh during July and August of 2024. He referred to this period as a significant opportunity for Bangladesh to confront its historical injustices, fostering healing and truth within society.
Turk underscored the notion of unity among Bangladeshis, stating, “Whatever differences are there, it is one country and one citizenship,” suggesting that all citizens share a collective responsibility during this pivotal moment. His dialogue with member states and civil society centered on promoting accountability, justice, and human rights reforms within Bangladesh.
The event included participants from the interim government and representatives of Bangladeshi civil society. In reflection of his conversation with chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Turk noted that human rights have been prioritized in the reforms. He acknowledged the hard work required to realize these transitions, stating, “Of course this is hard work, no doubt about that. This is not easy.”
Law adviser Asif Nazrul highlighted instances of political violence aimed at those from the Awami League regime, describing them as “torturers” and “hooligans.” While condemning such acts, he pointed out that these incidents predominantly involved individuals from the Muslim community, with relatively few from minority groups affected.
In his concluding remarks, Turk acknowledged the interim government’s cooperation, indicating that they had facilitated the rapid deployment of the UN team. He stressed the importance of ensuring due process in criminal cases and investigating hate-related violence, particularly against minorities. Turk remarked that last year had seen unprecedented violence in Bangladesh as the government suppressed a student movement advocating human rights, noting, “The country is now charting a new future.”
The independent fact-finding report delivered by Turk is regarded as a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s ongoing journey towards justice and accountability regarding its human rights violations.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, called for accountability in confronting the human rights abuses during the protests in Bangladesh in 2024. He emphasized the importance of healing and unity among the citizens of Bangladesh, while also addressing the critical need for justice reforms. The interim government has shown cooperation, and the conversation surrounding these reforms aims to ensure future protections of human rights and a collective movement towards a new future for the nation.
Original Source: www.newagebd.net
