DHAKA: A coalition of international human rights organizations has strongly criticized the government of Bangladesh, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid, for its draconian laws and the deteriorating human rights situation in the country.
In a joint statement, the organizations called for an end to authoritarianism and the restoration of democratic principles, human dignity, and social justice.
The statement highlighted the absence of effective institutions to prevent political intolerance, undemocratic practices, and human rights abuses, resulting in widespread impunity. It expressed grave concerns over the government’s failure to address gross human rights violations, including cases of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture.
Of particular concern was the misuse of repressive laws, notably the Digital Security Act (DSA). The DSA, which replaced the controversial Information & Communication Technology Act, has been widely criticized for stifling freedom of expression and suppressing dissent. Despite the repeal of the previous act, the DSA introduced even harsher penalties and granted the government significant punitive power.
Alarming Human Rights Situation in Bangladesh
The organizations raised alarm over the increasing number of cases filed under the DSA, with politicians and journalists being the primary targets. Between January 2020 and October 2021, 754 cases were filed under the DSA, with approximately 29.5% involving politicians and 25.6% targeting journalists. A report by the Centre for Governance Studies revealed that between October 2018 and August 2022, the DSA had been invoked in 1,029 cases, including 301 involving politicians and 280 involving journalists.
The joint statement called upon the Bangladeshi government to uphold its commitments under international treaties and establish an independent and specialized mechanism to investigate allegations of gross human rights violations. The organizations also urged United Nations human rights monitoring mechanisms to press the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure accountability for those responsible.
The coalition’s statement brings attention to the urgent need for Bangladesh to address human rights abuses, protect freedom of expression, and ensure justice for victims of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture.
