UN Panel Sheds Light on Rising Extremism and State Repression in Bangladesh

At the 58th Human Rights Council Session in Geneva, a significant side event brought urgent attention to the escalating human rights violations in Bangladesh. Organized by the Tumuku Development and Cultural Union in collaboration with the International Forum for Secular Bangladesh, the discussion examined widespread suppression of dissent, violence against minorities, and growing authoritarianism in the country.

Moderated by Kevin Lawrence, the panel featured insights from prominent human rights experts, including Mr. Fazal-ur Rehman Afridi and Dr. Rayhan Rashid. The event underscored a troubling trend—the systematic targeting of religious minorities, the rise of extrajudicial killings, and increasing state control over free speech.

Religious Persecution and State Crackdown on Minorities

One of the central issues raised at the discussion was the intensifying religious persecution faced by Hindus, Christians, and Ahmadiyya communities in Bangladesh. Panelists warned that state authorities and military forces have increasingly imposed severe restrictions on religious expression and assembly, leading to an alarming rise in arbitrary arrests and acts of violence.

The discussion also touched on the unchecked rise of extremist groups, which, according to experts, operate with impunity under the government's watch. These groups have been linked to violent attacks on religious minorities and activists working to promote inclusivity, often without facing consequences.

Extrajudicial Killings, Mass Arrests, and the Militarization of State Institutions

The panelists expressed deep concern over the sharp increase in extrajudicial killings and mass arrests of political opponents, activists, and journalists. Government security forces have been accused of using deadly force to silence opposition voices, often bypassing legal processes and denying detainees basic legal protections.

Additionally, the growing militarization of state institutions was highlighted as a major threat to democracy. Experts described a “weaponization” of the military, where armed forces are used not for national security but as tools for domestic repression. Protesters, political dissenters, and journalists often face intimidation, with little hope of justice or accountability for human rights abuses.

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Targeted Violence Against LGBTQ and Transgender Communities

The panel also brought attention to the rising attacks on LGBTQ and transgender individuals, who face systematic discrimination and targeted violence. With state-backed suppression of civil liberties, activists advocating for gender rights are at constant risk of arrest, assault, or worse.

Press Freedom Under Threat

The event strongly condemned the Bangladeshi government's suppression of independent journalism. Journalists and investigative reporters face harassment, defamation lawsuits, and imprisonment for exposing corruption or human rights abuses. The government has also been accused of weaponizing the judicial system against independent media, thereby restricting public access to unbiased information.

Lawyers and legal professionals defending political prisoners or speaking out against government actions have also been targeted, threatened, or attacked. The panelists warned that these patterns of state repression are deeply alarming and indicate a broader trend of democratic backsliding.

First-Hand Accounts of Violence and Religious Persecution

A particularly harrowing testimony was shared by investigative journalist Sahar Zand, who conducted field research into religiously motivated violence in Bangladesh.

As part of her investigation, she documented a destroyed Hindu-majority village where religious sites and homes had been demolished, and several residents had been killed.

Despite the evidence, local authorities denied that these attacks were religiously motivated.

In a shocking encounter, Zand’s team discovered a mosque built on the site of a demolished Hindu crematorium. When they attempted to interview the local imam, an angry mob gathered, attacked the journalists, and even attempted to set their car on fire. Their lives were only saved when courageous bystanders intervened and authorities arrived.

Global Implications and Urgent Calls for Action

Former British MP Paul Bistrow acknowledged Bangladesh's progress in poverty reduction, women’s education, and refugee protection, particularly for Rohingya Muslims fleeing Myanmar. However, he warned that without urgent action, these advancements could be reversed due to increasing instability and human rights abuses.

All panelists unanimously called for stronger international intervention. They urged global institutions such as the United Nations, civil society organizations, and foreign governments to hold the Bangladeshi government accountable for these violations.

The event concluded with a powerful message: at a time when human rights violations dominate global headlines, the crisis in Bangladesh must not be ignored. Ensuring justice, accountability, and the protection of marginalized communities remains a moral and global responsibility.

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