Amnesty Flags Abuse of Anti-Terror Laws Targeting Journalists in Bangladesh
Human rights organization Amnesty International has raised concerns over the misuse of anti-terror laws in Bangladesh, particularly against journalists, ahead of the country’s upcoming February 12 elections. In a formal letter to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, Amnesty International Secretary General Agnes Callamard highlighted the authorities’ failure to safeguard fundamental rights, including the right to life, personal security, and freedom of expression and association.
In her letter, Callamard urged the interim government to place human rights at the centre of the electoral process. She called for an immediate end to the misuse of security legislation against journalists and critics, stressed that law enforcement authorities must act promptly and lawfully to protect individuals exercising their rights, and demanded accountability for attacks on media workers and minority communities across Bangladesh.
Amnesty International’s appeal comes amid growing international attention on the protection of civil liberties and press freedom during politically sensitive periods. Callamard’s intervention underscores the need for Bangladesh to ensure that all citizens can participate in the democratic process safely and without fear of reprisals.
