UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has urgently called on the Bangladeshi government to disclose all details surrounding the recent crackdown on protests, amidst reports of extensive violence. The protests, driven by student and youth groups opposing government policies, have reportedly led to over 170 deaths, with more than a thousand injured. Some injured individuals were allegedly denied medical care, and many others remain unaccounted for. Among the casualties were at least two journalists, with numerous others wounded. Additionally, hundreds of people, including opposition figures, have been arrested.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk Thursday called on the Bangladesh Government to urgently disclose full details about last week’s crackdown on protests amid growing accounts of “horrific violence”.
He also called on the Government to conduct an impartial, pic.twitter.com/xcHwYc30I3
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Türk highlighted the need for law enforcement to strictly adhere to international human rights norms, especially in the context of policing protests and using force. He voiced concerns that many protesters were violently targeted by groups reportedly linked to the government, with no protective action taken by authorities. Türk also urged the government to restore full Internet access, which has been restricted, arguing that such measures violate international laws and fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. He noted that these shutdowns hinder public scrutiny and could potentially increase impunity for law enforcement actions.
#Bangladesh: UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk calls for accountability after reports of deadly violence.
➡️ https://t.co/WwOACgM5b2.
See more in description… pic.twitter.com/n6Dv65VVvd— Suzon Miah (@SuzonMiah_) July 24, 2024
The High Commissioner called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into all alleged human rights violations. He offered his office’s support in this process and emphasized the need to prevent future occurrences. Türk also insisted that there should be no reprisals against those involved in the protests, advocating for comprehensive security sector reforms to protect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
#Bangladesh: UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk urges authorities to engage with student protesters. All acts of violence and use of force, especially resulting in loss of life, must be investigated and perpetrators held to account…see description pic.twitter.com/e6d07BQIRO
— Suzon Miah (@SuzonMiah_) July 24, 2024
Türk expressed hope that the recent Supreme Court decision to significantly narrow the quota system for government jobs, which had sparked the protests, could open the door to constructive dialogue and confidence-building measures. He urged all political actors to avoid inciting violence or further cracking down on dissent.
Major Points:
- UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called on Bangladesh to disclose details of a recent crackdown on protests and ensure adherence to international human rights standards.
- Reports indicate over 170 deaths and numerous injuries, with many denied medical care and some missing, amidst protests led by students and youth groups.
- Türk urged the restoration of full Internet access, criticizing prolonged shutdowns for violating international laws and rights, including freedom of expression and assembly.
- He called for an impartial investigation into alleged human rights abuses and guarantees of non-recurrence, stressing the need for comprehensive security sector reform.
- Türk expressed hope for dialogue and confidence-building following the Supreme Court’s decision to narrow the quota system for government jobs, which had sparked the protests.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
