Bangladesh: Unrest Sparks Calls for Justice and Reform

The UN Human Rights Office reported nearly 650 deaths and numerous injuries following unrest in Bangladesh from mid-July to mid-August. Triggered by student protests and the reinstatement of a quota system for civil service jobs, the violence has led to calls for impartial investigations and significant reforms in governance and human rights adherence.

Nearly 650 people have lost their lives in the recent Bangladesh unrest from July 16 to August 11, according to a preliminary report by the UN Human Rights Office. This report calls for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into incidents of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and detentions.

Based on the 10-page document titled "Preliminary Analysis of Recent Protests and Unrest in Bangladesh," around 400 deaths occurred between July 16 and August 4, while approximately 250 more were reported between August 5 and 6, coinciding with the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

The report, issued on Friday in Geneva, notes that the violence was triggered by student protests against a reinstated quota system for civil service jobs. It also highlights the need for immediate law and order restoration and measures to prevent further loss of life, endorsing reforms in governance grounded in human rights and the rule of law.

(With inputs from agencies.)