Geneva, July 25 (V7N)– The United Nations and Amnesty International have called on the Bangladeshi government to uphold the right to protest, end the violent suppression of demonstrators, and lift all communication restrictions imposed during recent unrest.

In a statement from Geneva, UN Human Rights chief Volker Türk demanded transparency regarding last week’s crackdown on protests, citing severe violence. Türk urged the government to release comprehensive details about casualties, injuries, and detentions to aid affected families. He also offered support for investigating alleged human rights abuses and stressed the need for law enforcement actions to comply with international human rights standards. Restoring public trust and fostering dialogue on the underlying issues of the violence are crucial, he added.

Reports suggest that the recent protests, primarily driven by student and youth movements, resulted in over 170 deaths and more than a thousand injuries, with many missing and denied medical care. Türk also called for assurances against reprisals and recommended long-term security sector reforms to protect freedoms of expression and assembly.

Amnesty International echoed these concerns, urging the Bangladeshi government to lift shoot-on-sight orders, fully restore internet access, and cease the use of military and paramilitary forces in managing protests. Senior director Deprose Muchena criticized the repressive tactics as efforts to stifle dissent and prevent future protests. Amnesty’s latest report highlights over 2,500 arrests, nearly 200 deaths, and thousands of injuries since the protests escalated on July 16. The rights group has documented instances of unlawful force used by security personnel, including video evidence of an officer firing an assault rifle at demonstrators.

Muchena called for independent investigations into human rights violations and reparations for victims. He stressed the need for accountability and transparency in addressing these issues.

In response to the situation, the US State Department is reviewing options to ensure the safety of American personnel in Dhaka, including allowing the voluntary departure of non-essential embassy staff and their families. US spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of safeguarding fundamental freedoms while condemning violence from any party.

Canada has also called for accountability for those responsible for the violence and will continue to monitor the situation closely.

This call for action comes as the international community demands immediate reforms and a return to peaceful dialogue in Bangladesh.

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