United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has revealed that he warned the Bangladesh Army against participating in the suppression of the July-August mass uprising.
Speaking on the BBC World Service's HARD talk program, Türk shared his insights on the situation. The interview, conducted by BBC presenter Stephen Sackur, was published on the BBC's website on March 5.
Highlighting the severe repression of student protests under Sheikh Hasina's government, Türk stated, "For the students, a major source of hope was what we said, what I said, and what actions we could take to shed light on the situation. We explicitly warned the military that they risked losing their status as a troop-contributing country for UN peacekeeping missions if they got involved. Consequently, we witnessed a shift."
In response to Sackur's observation that the UN appears powerless in addressing crises worldwide, Türk pointed to Bangladesh as an example of the UN's influence. "Last year, during July and August, students led mass protests. Sheikh Hasina's government responded with repression. Our words and actions mattered to the protesters. We cautioned the military that if they participated in the crackdown, they might no longer be eligible for UN peacekeeping missions. As a result, change occurred. Dr Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of the government, demonstrating the power of international scrutiny."
Discussing the UN Human Rights Commission's role in Bangladesh, Türk mentioned that when Professor Yunus took charge as the head of the interim government, he immediately requested UN involvement. "He asked if we could send a fact-finding team, give attention to the situation, and conduct an investigation. We acted on that request, and it proved to be effective."
Türk further reflected on his visit to Bangladesh last year, stating, "By taking a stance, speaking out, and offering support, we gained the gratitude of the student protesters."
On the global impact of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) suspending aid, Türk warned that this decision has directly affected the most vulnerable populations. He expressed hope that Washington would reconsider, emphasizing the vital role of USAID and international assistance.
Regarding Sudan, Türk noted ongoing engagement with human rights workers in Syria and communication with victims of violence in neighbouring countries, including Syria and Lebanon.
On the Ukraine war, he stressed the UN's relentless efforts to end the conflict.
Describing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as catastrophic, Türk stated, "What is happening there is deeply concerning for the entire world."
When asked about the broader state of human rights, Türk acknowledged that violations are making headlines globally. He noted that violent incidents have been recorded in 59 countries, attributing much of this unrest to geopolitical factors.
