It is not only the Bangladeshi security forces who commit abuses. Acute poverty and unemployment prompts millions of Bangladeshis to cross the border into India in search of jobs, according to Human Rights Watch report. The Bangladesh government regularly harassed, repressed and retaliated against its political opponents and labor union activists during 2010. Labor union activists also bore the brunt of the government crackdown against public protests and organized demands.
Bangladesh is yet to appreciate the implications of human rights protection in conflict resolution and social protection. The government has not kept its promise after its election victory in December 2008 to show “zero tolerance” for abuses by its security forces.
Experts say, Bangladesh has a long way to go to live up to its commitments, in both national policies and meeting international obligations. It is only when its people can live free of fear of torture and repression.
Bangladesh should immediately end systematic human rights abuses, including stopping extrajudicial executions and torture by its security forces. It should allow the media, political opponents, and labor rights activists to exercise their rights to freedom of expression and association fully.
Friday, November 22, 2024