U s urges bangladesh to probe extrajudicial killings
The United States has urged Bangladesh to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for extrajudicial killings, which have been a persistent human rights concern in the country.
In a statement issued by the US Department of State on August 12, 2021, the US government expressed its deep concern over the continued reports of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture in Bangladesh. The statement noted that these abuses have been perpetrated by both state and non-state actors, and have resulted in the deaths of numerous individuals, including civilians, journalists, and opposition activists.
The US government urged the Bangladesh government to take immediate and concrete steps to address these human rights concerns, including:
- Conducting thorough and impartial investigations into reported cases of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture.
- Holding accountable those responsible for these abuses, including high-ranking officials and law enforcement personnel.
- Strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals, including those in positions of power, are held accountable for their actions.
- Protecting the rights of all individuals, including journalists, opposition activists, and members of minority communities, to freedom of expression, association, and assembly.
The US government also emphasized the importance of promoting a culture of accountability and transparency in Bangladesh, and encouraged the government to engage with civil society organizations and other stakeholders to address these human rights concerns.
The statement noted that the US government has been a strong supporter of Bangladesh's democratic development and has provided significant assistance to the country in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic development. However, the US government also emphasized that its support is contingent on Bangladesh's commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
The US government's statement on extrajudicial killings in Bangladesh is a significant development, as it highlights the growing concern among the international community about the human rights situation in the country. The statement also underscores the importance of promoting accountability and transparency in Bangladesh, and encourages the government to take concrete steps to address these human rights concerns.