Robert Simon, a prominent French human rights activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF, expressed deep concern over this suppression of free speech, stating: “It is alarming to witness such blatant attempts to silence voices that advocate for justice and transparency. We call on the authorities to uphold freedom of the press and support human rights activism, both of which are crucial pillars of any democratic society.”
These restrictions come at a critical time when JMBF has intensified its advocacy against an alarming rise in human rights abuses under Bangladesh’s interim government. Numerous reports document political repression, torture, and extrajudicial killings by law enforcement, as well as widespread violence against vulnerable groups such as LGBTQI+ individuals, religious minorities (Hindu, Buddhist, Ahmadi), and ethnic minorities. Additionally, interference in the judiciary, mob violence, and press intimidation further compound this crisis.
While the interim government under Professor Yunus claims to uphold and protect human rights, press freedom, and democratic principles, these oppressive actions contradict those claims, especially when scrutiny of government actions is involved.
“Silencing the media only exacerbates the suffering of those enduring human rights abuses and denies the Bangladeshi people their right to know the truth,” said Advocate Shahanur Islam, a Bangladeshi human rights lawyer residing in France and Founder President of JMBF. “The media must be allowed to report fearlessly on human rights issues without interference or intimidation.”
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) calls on the Bangladeshi government to immediately cease these indirect threats and allow the publication of JMBF statements on human rights violations in Bangladeshi media without obstruction.
Additionally, JMBF urges the government to foster a positive environment where human rights organizations, defenders, and Bangladeshi media outlets can freely and courageously report on all matters, including human rights abuses, without fear of repercussion.
Protecting press freedom is essential for justice and accountability, and we demand that the authorities take immediate action to secure these freedoms in the interest of the Bangladeshi people and the global community.
JMBF also calls on international authorities—including the United Nations Special Rapporteurs on Human Rights Defenders and on Freedom of Expression, the European Union and its Parliament, foreign embassies in Bangladesh, and international and intergovernmental human rights organizations—to address these concerning developments and support efforts to safeguard human rights and press freedom in Bangladesh.
Thank you,
Advocate Shahanur Islam
Founder President
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Email: shahanur.islam@jmbf.org | Website:http://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.
No comments:
Post a Comment