STATEMENT: JMBF Calls for Justice and Accountability for Enforced Disappearances in Bangladesh

Paris, France; August 30, 2024: On the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) stands in unwavering solidarity with the victims and families affected by enforced disappearances in Bangladesh. This day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to protect the fundamental rights of all citizens and to ensure justice for those who have been forcibly taken from their families.

Enforced disappearances in Bangladesh remain a severe issue, leaving countless families in distress and uncertainty. JMBF is committed to advocating for the rights of these victims, ensuring they receive the justice and rehabilitation they deserve.

Robert Simon, Chief Adviser of JMBF, emphasized the importance of global cooperation in addressing this crisis: "Enforced disappearances are an affront to humanity. We must collaborate internationally to ensure that every missing person is found and that those responsible for these crimes are brought to justice. The global community must hold Bangladesh accountable and protect the rights of its citizens."

Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF, stressed the urgency of accountability and support for the affected families: "In Bangladesh, families live in constant agony, unaware of the fate of their loved ones. It is our collective responsibility to provide these families with the necessary psychological, legal, and financial support. We must also advocate for robust legal frameworks in Bangladesh to prevent such tragedies and to hold those responsible fully accountable."

JMBF urges the government of Bangladesh to take immediate and decisive action to end enforced disappearances, secure justice for victims and their families, and restore the rule of law in the country.

Key Points of JMBF's Call to Action:

Protection from Disappearances: Urging the enactment and implementation of strong legal frameworks and proactive measures to prevent enforced disappearances and protect every citizen.

Justice and Rehabilitation: Ensuring victims and their families receive appropriate rehabilitation, including psychological, legal, and financial support, while holding perpetrators accountable through transparent legal processes.

Prompt Tracing and Return: Strengthening efforts to swiftly locate missing persons, return them to their families, and provide comprehensive support during these challenging times.

Accountability: Identifying and punishing those responsible for enforced disappearances, ensuring that such actions do not go unpunished, and setting a precedent to prevent future occurrences.

We also call upon the international community to remain vigilant and to continue pressing for accountability in Bangladesh.

On this day, JMBF honors the victims of enforced disappearances and reaffirms its commitment to fighting for justice, truth, and the protection of human rights for all.

Thank you,

Advocate Shahanur Islam

Founder President

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)

Email: info@jmbf.org | Website: www.jmbf.org

============================================================ JMBF is an independent non-profit, nonpartisan human rights organization registered in France with registration number W931027714 under the association law of 1901, dedicated to defending human rights, fighting for justice, and empowering communities in Bangladesh and beyond.