UN rights chief urges Bangladesh to sustain ‘unprecedented’ momentum for change
October 30, 2024
GENEVA (ILO News) – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Sunday urged Bangladesh to sustain the “unprecedented” momentum for change it has achieved in recent years, while addressing a series of challenges, including the need to strengthen the independence of the judiciary, protect civic space and ensure accountability for human rights violations.
“Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in a number of areas, including reducing poverty, improving access to education and healthcare, and empowering women,” Türk said at the end of a four-day visit to the country. “These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Bangladeshi people and their government.”
However, he noted that there are still a number of challenges that need to be addressed, including:
- The need to strengthen the independence of the judiciary: “The judiciary is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and it is essential that it be independent and impartial,” Türk said. “I urge the government to take steps to strengthen the independence of the judiciary, including by ensuring that judges are appointed on the basis of merit and that they are free from political interference.”
- The need to protect civic space: “Civic space is essential for a healthy democracy,” Türk said. “It allows people to express their views freely, to assemble peacefully, and to participate in the political process. I urge the government to take steps to protect civic space, including by lifting restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly.”
- The need to ensure accountability for human rights violations: “All allegations of human rights violations must be investigated promptly, impartially and effectively,” Türk said. “I urge the government to take steps to ensure that those responsible for human rights violations are held accountable, regardless of their position or affiliation.”
Türk also called on the government to address the issue of impunity for human rights violations committed during the 1971 war of independence.
“The families of the victims of these violations deserve justice,” Türk said. “I urge the government to take steps to establish a truth and reconciliation commission to investigate these violations and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
Türk praised the government for its commitment to human rights and its willingness to engage with the UN human rights system. He also commended the work of human rights defenders in Bangladesh, who are working tirelessly to promote and protect human rights.
“I am confident that Bangladesh can overcome the challenges it faces and build a more just, equitable and prosperous society for all its citizens,” Türk said.
During his visit, Türk met with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, Law Minister Anisul Huq, and other government officials. He also met with representatives of civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and victims of human rights violations.
UN rights chief urges Bangladesh to sustain ‘unprecedented’ momentum for change
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