The United Nations report has outlined a series of robust recommendations aimed at addressing human rights violations that occurred during the protests in July and August last year, including the urgent need for reforms in the security and justice sectors, the repeal of repressive laws, and the implementation of a transitional justice process that prioritizes victim rights and accountability for perpetrators.
The report outlines detailed recommendations to reform the security and justice sectors, abolish a host of repressive laws and institutions designed to stifle civic and political dissent, and implement broader changes to the political system and economic governance.
Fact-Finding Mission recommendations
In the report, OHCHR recommends a range of measures, including reforms in the security and justice sectors; the repeal of many repressive laws and policies; amendments to other laws to align them with international human rights standards; institutional and governance sector reforms; and broader changes in the political process and economic governance. These steps aim to ensure the inclusion, protection, and respect of human rights for all people in Bangladesh.
Several cases are linked to earlier instances of the 2024 quota protests and retaliatory violence. Those identified as perpetrators and leaders must be held accountable in accordance with existing laws and international standards. At the same time, effective remedies and compensation must be provided to the victims.
Relevant evidence—including government orders, internal documents, and forensic evidence—must be collected and preserved as an immediate priority. In addition, disciplinary and criminal proceedings should be initiated against officials and others who attempt to destroy or conceal evidence.
Urgent measures are needed to enact long-overdue witness protection legislation and to establish victim and witness protection programs. Furthermore, strict disciplinary measures and criminal investigations must be launched to safeguard the independence of security forces and prevent witness intimidation.
OHCHR stated that its report and recommendations were based on more than 230 in-depth interviews with victims and other witnesses in Bangladesh and online. An additional 36 interviews were conducted with government, security sector, and political party officials, including several former and current senior officials with direct knowledge of the events. The findings were corroborated by authenticated videos and photos, medical forensic and weapons analyses, and other evidence.
OHCHR recommends an inclusive national dialogue and consultation to develop a transitional justice process that is holistic, inclusive, and context-sensitive. The prosecution of the most serious perpetrators should be conducted in accordance with international standards and from a victim-centered perspective.
OHCHR also said it stands ready to continue providing support and technical assistance to Bangladesh in implementing the recommendations outlined in this report.
