Page 1 — Introduction and Context
In recent years, Bangladesh has witnessed a troubling rise in human rights violations. Arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and restrictions on freedom of expression have created a climate of fear and repression.
These violations have forced many Bangladeshis to leave their homeland, seeking asylum in Europe, North America, and neighbouring countries. The growing wave of asylum seekers reflects both domestic failures to protect rights and the increasing desperation of citizens.
Page 2 — Historical and Political Background
Bangladesh emerged from its 1971 liberation war with hopes of democracy and justice. However, its history has been marked by authoritarian tendencies, military interventions, and deep political rivalries.
The dominance of the ruling Awami League in recent years has further eroded democratic space. Opposition leaders and activists are routinely harassed, while laws such as the Digital Security Act are used to silence dissent. Security forces, particularly the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), have been accused of extrajudicial killings and disappearances.
This repressive climate leaves citizens with little recourse within the country.
Page 3 — Forms of Human Rights Violations
Human rights abuses in Bangladesh take many forms:
- Arbitrary detention: Political opponents and activists jailed on vague charges.
- Enforced disappearances: Dozens vanish each year, allegedly at the hands of security forces.
- Torture and abuse: Reports of mistreatment in custody are widespread.
- Suppression of free speech: Journalists and critics face arrests and harassment.
- Discrimination: Minority groups, including Hindus, Rohingya, and indigenous peoples, face systemic abuse.
These violations strip citizens of their dignity, safety, and fundamental freedoms.
Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society
The impact of human rights violations is profound. Citizens live in fear, avoiding political engagement or public criticism. Families of the disappeared face trauma and uncertainty, while survivors of torture often struggle with lasting psychological scars.
As a result, thousands of Bangladeshis seek asylum abroad each year. This migration drains the country of skilled workers and activists, while tarnishing Bangladesh’s reputation internationally. Western governments and rights groups have increasingly criticised Dhaka, further straining diplomatic relations.
Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion
Reversing the asylum crisis linked to human rights violations requires urgent reforms.
Key steps include:
- Ending impunity: investigate allegations of extrajudicial killings and disappearances.
- Legal reform: amend or repeal repressive laws such as the Digital Security Act.
- Strengthening institutions: ensure judiciary and law enforcement operate independently.
- Protecting minorities: guarantee equal rights and protection for vulnerable groups.
- International cooperation: work with human rights organisations to restore credibility.
Until such measures are implemented, Bangladesh’s citizens will continue to flee repression, seeking safety and justice abroad.