UN delegation says challenges persist despite Bangladesh signing UN convention on enforced disappearances

Despite Bangladesh’s accession to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED), significant challenges remain, according to a visiting UN delegation.

Speaking after a meeting with Foreign Secretary Ruhul Siddique on Monday, Grazyna Baranowska, Vice Chair of the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID), said:
“We are here following Bangladesh’s signing of the convention. This visit is crucial. The main focus must be supporting the victims, and that begins with listening to their families. At the same time, stronger oversight of law enforcement agencies is essential. There are still many hurdles to overcome.” She also underlined the need for credible investigations into all reported cases of enforced disappearances.

Another WGEID member, Ana Lorena Delgadillo Perez, emphasized that the delegation’s visit was aimed at exploring ways to support victims and ensure justice for those affected.

In a press release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the delegation acknowledged the interim government's recent measures, particularly its accession to the ICPPED and the formation of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on enforced disappearances. The WGEID welcomed these developments as steps in the right direction.

The acting foreign secretary reiterated the government’s firm commitment to justice, protection of human rights, and public awareness. He also thanked the UN group for its technical support to help accelerate progress.

The two-member delegation from the UN committee arrived in Dhaka on Sunday for a four-day official visit and is scheduled to leave on 18 June.

The WGEID has been seeking access to Bangladesh for over a decade. Their first request was sent on 12 March 2013, followed by several subsequent attempts. However, no government responded until now. The last unanswered request was made on 24 April 2020. The current interim government, after taking office, finally responded and approved the visit.