UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk Arrives in Dhaka for Key Talks

Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has arrived in Dhaka for a two-day visit. He was welcomed at the airport late Monday night (October 28) by Taufiq Hasan, Director-General and spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ UN division.

During his visit, Türk will meet with Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the interim government, along with 6 to 7 other advisers, the Chief Justice, the Army Chief, representatives of anti-discrimination student movements, and members of civil society. The discussions will prioritize issues related to elections, human rights, and security.

Diplomatic sources have indicated that this visit holds significant importance following the political transition in Bangladesh on August 5. The talks will focus on human rights, security, and election processes, including updates from the UN’s fact-finding mission. The interim government is seeking UN support to reform the election process and ensure security, and the UN is prepared to assist. However, the specifics of how such cooperation will take place will be discussed during Türk’s meetings in Dhaka.

Sources further mentioned that Bangladesh is seeking financial aid from the UN for these issues. The UN Human Rights Office, however, expects clear recommendations on how the funds will be allocated. Additionally, it has stressed the need for political consensus within Bangladesh regarding the implementation of these recommendations.

A diplomat hinted that discussions will cover several issues, but a key outcome might be further engagement with stakeholders to ensure political consensus. Talks could also explore the possibility of establishing a UN Human Rights Office in Dhaka.

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A senior Foreign Ministry official commented that setting up such an office is a complex process. While there is a proposal on the table, it remains uncertain whether the office can be established in Dhaka, especially considering past unsuccessful attempts in other South Asian countries.

According to a statement from the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Dhaka, Türk's visit will run from October 29 to 30. He will engage with senior officials, civil society representatives, and other key stakeholders. During his stay, Türk will also deliver a speech at Dhaka University and meet students involved in recent protest movements.

The statement further noted that Türk will hold meetings with various UN agencies and diplomatic missions in Dhaka. In addition, discussions will include progress on the fact-finding mission’s investigation, which is expected to submit its report to the interim government by the last week of November. The interim government will receive the report before it is made public.

It is noteworthy that Volker Türk’s predecessor, Michelle Bachelet, also visited Bangladesh in 2022.