The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed concern regarding provisions to ban political parties in Bangladesh. He voiced his apprehension yesterday, Monday, in Geneva, while speaking about the global human rights situation at the beginning of the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council.
Volker Türk, who also heads the UN Human Rights Office, commented on Bangladesh, stating, "I am encouraged by the interim government and political parties in Bangladesh moving forward through dialogue. I urge for meaningful progress in reforms aimed at creating an inclusive and free electoral environment."
However, Türk added, "I am concerned about the recent legal changes that create opportunities to ban political parties and organizations, as well as all related activities. This provision will unduly restrict the freedoms of association, assembly, and expression."
The head of the UN Human Rights Office also hinted at the expectation of opening a UN human rights office in Bangladesh. He said, "My office is hopeful of reaching an understanding to expand our presence soon."
It's worth noting that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk was vocal about widespread human rights violations in Bangladesh during July and August of last year. On August 5 last year, the Awami League government fell amid intense mass protests.
Subsequently, he visited Bangladesh on October 29 and 30 last year to discuss preparations for investigating allegations of human rights violations. Later, an investigation team formed by the UN Human Rights Office searched for evidence of human rights violations in Bangladesh.
Following the investigation, High Commissioner Volker Türk and the investigation team released their report and recommendations on February 12. That investigation report presented information on widespread human rights violations and planned killings, allegedly instigated by the then-government, that occurred consistently in Bangladesh during July and August of last year.
The UN report emphasized accountability for crimes and, importantly, urged against banning political parties.
