EU Leaders Raise Alarm Over Abuses in Pakistan and Bangladesh

At a side event during the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Members of the European Parliament, senators, and human rights advocates expressed grave concern over escalating human rights violations in South Asia—particularly in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Organized by International Support for Human Rights in collaboration with Italia Che Cambia, the event brought together several influential figures, including Anna Maria Cisint, Member of the European Parliament; Erik Selle, leader of the Christian Conservative Party in Norway; Fabia Cestelli of Italia Che Cambia, along with other senators and human rights activists.

Erik Selle: “Heartbroken by What Has Happened in Bangladesh”

Erik Selle, who spent a portion of his life in Bangladesh, spoke emotionally about the country’s worsening situation.

“I grew up in Bangladesh, I love that country, but I am devastated and heartbroken by what has happened in the last year,” he said. “There is also a geopolitical aspect with the caretaker government now, but my plea to Mohammad Yunus is to take control of the situation and protect the country from extremists.”

Selle underscored the importance of women’s empowerment, sharing his personal involvement in rural development projects aimed at supporting women.

“When women's rights are secured and economic opportunities are created, families are lifted out of poverty. We must fight extremism and prioritize the well-being of women.”

He also pointed to the rising persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus and Christians, and voiced concerns over the plight of women in Pakistan’s Balochistan region, where he believes the UN has failed to adequately respond.

European Parliamentarian Anna Maria Cisint also highlighted challenges faced by migrant women from Pakistan and Bangladesh living in Italy.

“The situation for women and young girls is extremely difficult. Many are forced to wear the burqa against their will and live under oppressive conditions, even after migrating to Europe,” she said.

The event concluded with urgent appeals to the global community to apply stronger pressure on the governments of Pakistan and Bangladesh to ensure the protection of women, children, and religious and ethnic minorities.