In an open letter to the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, four organizations have expressed deep concerns over ongoing human rights violations in Bangladesh.

The letter—sent by European Bangladesh Forum (EU and Great Britain), South Asia Democratic Forum (Belgium), Working Group Bangladesh (Germany), and Earth Civilization Network (Turkey)—highlights incidents of political violence, custodial torture, media censorship, and attacks on religious and historical sites under the interim government.

The letter states that since the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, democratic values and human rights protection in Bangladesh have severely deteriorated. The interim government led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus is accused of using state institutions for political purposes and undermining the country’s secular and pluralistic traditions. Despite promises, the government is allegedly attempting to reframe the nation’s identity with a right-wing Islamist ideology.

Attacks on Secular Voices and Minority Rights

The letter notes the detention of prominent writer and human rights activist Shahriar Kabir under false murder charges and denial of necessary medical treatment. Since August 5, 2024, 356 incidents of journalist torture, imprisonment, and abuse have been recorded, with 140 journalists falsely charged with murder, 28 bank accounts seized, and 167 press accreditations revoked.

Attacks on Religious and Historical Sites

It reports the destruction of 1,500 sculptures and murals, equating the acts to the destructive operations of the Taliban and ISIL. The destruction of the Father of the Nation’s residence and attacks on homes of opposition leaders and cultural figures are also noted.

Legal Intimidation and Suppression

Barrister Turin Afroz and 64 pro-Awami League lawyers have been arrested under fabricated charges. Human rights lawyer Ramen Roy has been attacked.

Abductions and Detentions

Meghna Alam was abducted mid-broadcast and later detained under the Special Powers Act of 1974.

Politicization of Cultural Heritage

UNESCO-listed “Mangal Shobhajatra” events were used to display anti-Sheikh Hasina political symbols, tarnishing secular values.

Extrajudicial Killings and Mob Violence

From September 2024 to February 2025, some 21 individuals were killed by law enforcement agencies, and 123 deaths occurred from mob violence. On April 28, former law minister Anisul Haq was attacked on the Narayanganj court premises, and on April 8, MP Dr. Abdul Aziz was attacked during his release from prison.

Attacks on Cultural Workers

The letter details assaults on sculptor Rasha on May 5 and actor Siddiqur Rahman Siddique on April 29, alongside allegations of attempted murders of multiple artists.

Attacks on Minority Communities

The letter notes a surge in violence against Hindu, Christian, and Indigenous communities as a result of Islamist extremism and political unrest.

Rule by the Mob

Islamist militant groups like Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat-e-Islam, and Hizb ut-Tahrir are reportedly exploiting the political vacuum to expand their power. On May 12, 2025, all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League were banned under public pressure, an example of mob-influenced governance.

The letter appeals to the European Union for six key actions:

1. Condemnation of political violence.

2. Independent investigations into deaths in police custody and attacks on opposition leaders.

3. Support for restoring democratic processes.

4. Ensuring media freedom.

5. Providing humanitarian aid to victims of political violence.

6. Diplomatic pressure on the Bangladesh government.

The European organizations warn that Bangladesh is at a dangerous crossroads. Without urgent international intervention, the country risks further bloodshed and instability. The letter calls on the European Union to stand with the people of Bangladesh.

Signatories:

1. Chris Blackburn, Communications Director, European Bangladesh Forum (EU and Great Britain)

Email: [chris.blackburn25@btopenworld.com]

2. Paulo Casaca, Executive Director, South Asia Democratic Forum, Brussels

Email: [paulo@sadf.eu]

3. Klaus Strempel, Working Group Bangladesh, Lower Saxony, Germany

Email: [arbeitskreis-bangladesch@gmx.de]

4. Tarik Gunersel, Poet, Playwright, and Founder Coordinator, Earth Civilization Network, Turkey

Email: [tgunersel@gmail.com]