Bangladesh Needs Systemic Reform to End Rights Abuses: HRW

DHAKA: Bangladesh must undertake comprehensive systemic reforms to address ongoing human rights abuses, Human Rights Watch (HRW) stated in its latest report. The global rights organization highlighted concerns about the government’s crackdown on dissent, arbitrary arrests, and suppression of freedom of speech in the country.

The report pointed to increasing attacks on opposition members, journalists, and activists, as well as restrictions on media and civil society. HRW called on Bangladeshi authorities to create a more transparent, accountable, and democratic governance framework to safeguard fundamental rights.

“Bangladesh’s government must urgently address systemic issues, including arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killings, and the erosion of press freedom. Without these reforms, citizens will continue to face widespread violations of their rights,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, South Asia Director at HRW.

HRW also raised concerns about the use of the controversial Digital Security Act (DSA), which has been criticized for being used to silence dissent and intimidate critics. The organization called for the act’s repeal or significant amendment to ensure it aligns with international standards for free expression.

The rights group urged the international community to press for meaningful change, emphasizing that reform is critical as Bangladesh prepares for its upcoming general elections in early 2024.

The Bangladeshi government has yet to respond to the report but has previously denied allegations of systemic rights violations, asserting its commitment to maintaining law and order.