"Laws that allowed excessive force and are no longer relevant need to be reformed"

UN Human Rights Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani discussed the OHCHR Fact-Finding Report on human rights violations during the July and August 2024 protests in Bangladesh in an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune’s Nawaz Farhin Antara. She emphasized that the report calls for accountability processes to meet international standards and suggests referring the situation to the International Criminal Court (ICC). 

Regarding the findings, Shamdasani shared that the OHCHR team conducted thorough investigations, including multiple visits to Bangladesh, interviews with over 250 individuals, and analysis of digital and medical forensics. They concluded that high-level government officials orchestrated widespread human rights violations, including murders, torture, and arbitrary detentions, constituting crimes against humanity.

The report documented violations such as killings, extrajudicial executions, and arbitrary arrests, with over 11,700 people arrested, many without cause. There were also widespread cases of torture, including gender-based violence, with security forces particularly targeting students and protesters. The OHCHR found that approximately 1,400 people were killed, most by gunfire, often using military-grade weapons.

While acknowledging some steps toward accountability, the OHCHR expressed concerns about the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) and recommended considering the ICC for prosecuting crimes. The OHCHR also advocates for a comprehensive transitional justice process that includes truth-telling, reconciliation, and reparations for victims. The government of Bangladesh has engaged positively with the OHCHR and invited them to conduct the mission.

Shamdasani further highlighted the deep politicization of security forces under the former government, which led to widespread human rights abuses. The report also emphasized the long-term impacts, including psychological trauma and displacement, urging a broader process of accountability beyond criminal justice.

The OHCHR plans to continue its support for Bangladesh through reforms and a strengthened presence in the country, aiming to help build a democratic, equitable, and human rights-based future. They also recommend reforms to outdated laws enabling excessive force and the creation of independent oversight for the police. Moving forward, the OHCHR will continue monitoring the situation and supporting victims.