Volker Turk urges interim government not to repeat human rights violations and repression

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has strongly urged the interim government of Bangladesh to ensure that human rights violations and repression do not recur in the country. He also described the initiation of judicial processes against those accused of enforced disappearances and torture during the previous government as an important step towards accountability. This call was made in a statement on Wednesday.

In the statement, the UN Human Rights Chief said that this is the first time formal charges have been brought in Bangladesh for enforced disappearances. It is a significant moment for the victims and their families.

Last week, formal charges were submitted in two cases of enforced disappearance and torture at the International Crimes Tribunal. The tribunal has issued arrest warrants against both former and current military officials. Among the accused are several former Directors General of the DGFI and some former RAB officials.

On Saturday, the Bangladesh Army announced that more than a dozen officers had been taken into 'custody' who are accused of serious crimes committed during the previous government’s tenure.

Volker Turk stated that it is important to promptly present these detained officials before civilian courts. He also welcomed the army’s move to conduct criminal proceedings in a fair and transparent manner.

The High Commissioner said, “International law guarantees strict standards of justice, and I call for full respect towards them.” He emphasized that the victims and witnesses in these sensitive and important cases must be protected.

In a fact-finding report last year, the United Nations had recommended that those involved in serious human rights violations during student-led protests be held accountable in accordance with international standards. The High Commissioner called on the Bangladeshi authorities to prioritize the resolution of the large number of pending cases—some of which were filed under the previous administration.

Volker Turk emphasized that due process and fair resolution in every case is essential, including the release of those in arbitrary detention. This includes survivors of enforced disappearance and individuals falsely accused—some of whom are supporters of the former government and journalists. Many of them are facing criminal charges, including under stringent anti-terrorism laws. The High Commissioner urged the interim government not to impose the death penalty in any ongoing court cases, regardless of the gravity of the charges.