The UN has accused Bangladesh’s former government of committing potential crimes against humanity against protesters last year. Systematic violence, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and attacks on civilians, was identified during an extensive fact-finding mission. The report stresses the need for accountability and justice to prevent future human rights violations.
The United Nations has condemned the former government of Bangladesh for its violent crackdown on protests last year, suggesting these actions may constitute “crimes against humanity.” Prior to the toppling of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2022 during a student-led revolution, her administration reportedly conducted systematic attacks on demonstrators, which included numerous extrajudicial killings.
The UN’s findings stem from an investigation focusing on the period from July 1 to August 15, 2022. The results indicate that there is substantial evidence of crimes against humanity involving murder, torture, and inhumane treatment perpetrated by the state. The report attributes these criminal acts to government forces and allied violent factions aiming to suppress dissent and maintain power.
After fleeing to India, Sheikh Hasina faces an arrest warrant in Bangladesh for her alleged involvement in these crimes. The fact-finding mission was initiated at the request of interim leader Mohammed Yunus and included a specialized team conducting over 230 interviews with victims and witnesses, supporting their findings with medical reviews and documented evidence.
The investigation revealed that the government’s oppressive actions resulted in an estimated 1,400 deaths, far exceeding official figures. Most casualties were caused by security forces, with a troubling percentage being children. This violence was characterized as a direct response to widespread protests against governmental job policies, which escalated into broader demands for Hasina’s resignation.
UN rights chief Volker Turk stated that the violent strategy was methodically planned, involving numerous human rights violations under the direction of senior officials. The report details horrifying accounts of state violence and systemic targeting of civilians, including accusations of gender-based violence and intimidation tactics against female protesters.
Turk emphasized the need for accountability and justice to facilitate national healing in Bangladesh, advocating for a thorough process of truth-telling and reparations for human rights abuses. The emphasis lies on ensuring that such violations do not recur, underlining the importance of recognizing and addressing the historical injustices experienced during this tumultuous period.
In summary, the UN report highlights serious abuses committed by the former Bangladeshi government, suggesting these may reach the level of crimes against humanity. The systematic violence against protesters, including extrajudicial killings and gender-based violence, calls for urgent accountability and reform. A path forward requires a commitment to justice and healing in light of the atrocities documented during this turbulent time.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
