HRW Warns of Ongoing Human Rights Failures Under Bangladesh’s Interim Government
Bangladesh has failed to deliver meaningful improvements in human rights under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its World Report 2026, published on February 4.
According to the report, the interim administration has struggled to uphold the rule of law and rein in abusive practices by law enforcement agencies. HRW documents continued arbitrary arrests and mass detentions, including the detention of at least 8,600 people during the security operation known as “Operation Devil Hunt.” Many detainees have been held without trial, with bail routinely denied, raising serious due process concerns.
The report also highlights custodial deaths and allegations of torture, as well as a sharp rise in mob violence, which has killed more than 120 people in a three-month period in 2025. HRW says the government has failed to effectively curb extremist groups and criminal networks, leaving public safety increasingly at risk.
Despite establishing multiple commissions to reform the judiciary, police, electoral system, and rights protections, the interim government has made little progress in implementing these recommendations. HRW further notes a shrinking space for freedom of expression, citing attacks on journalists and continued misuse of counterterrorism and cyber laws.
Human Rights Watch warns that unless the interim government takes urgent steps to end arbitrary detention, ensure accountability for abuses, and carry out genuine reforms, Bangladesh’s human rights situation is likely to deteriorate further.
