A Geneva seminar held alongside the UN human rights session raised concerns over Bangladesh’s political and constitutional situation…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Concerns over Bangladesh’s political and constitutional situation were raised at a seminar in Geneva held alongside the ongoing 63rd Human Rights Session of the United Nations.
The seminar, titled “Constitutional Crisis in Bangladesh”, brought together speakers and panellists from several countries to discuss developments in the country, including political restrictions, democratic concerns and alleged violations of human rights.
Paulo Casaca, Executive Director of the South Asia Democratic Forum (SADF), described the situation in Bangladesh as a “dire situation”, alleging that the country was facing an unconstitutional government and restrictions on political opposition.
Casaca claimed that the main political party in Bangladesh had been outlawed and raised concerns over the alleged persecution of people and journalists, as well as restrictions on freedom of expression.
He also alleged that there was an attempt to “recreate history” and expressed concern over what he described as generalised persecution in the education sector.
Casaca linked the political crisis to what he described as the government’s economic incapacity to fulfil its obligations. He also referred to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stated intention to return to Bangladesh in December, regardless of the circumstances.
Describing her planned return as “a ray of hope” for Bangladesh, Casaca called the decision courageous and expressed hope that it could help “unlock the present constitutional process”.
Rahman Khalilur Mamun, a Bangladeshi human rights activist, also raised concerns over the country’s political situation during the seminar.
Mamun said participants from several countries had joined the event and voiced concerns over developments in Bangladesh. He referred to the political party associated with Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and described its current banning as “very unlawful” and “very undemocratic”.
He called for greater international attention to democratic concerns in Bangladesh and highlighted the participation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the event.
According to Mamun, Hasina delivered an online speech during the seminar, in which she expressed solidarity and sympathy with the people of Bangladesh. He described her participation as a significant achievement.
The seminar was held in Geneva as the 63rd Human Rights Session of the United Nations was underway, with participants discussing political and constitutional developments in Bangladesh.
