The UN Human Rights Office has initiated an independent fact-finding mission in Bangladesh to investigate alleged human rights violations that occurred between July 1 and August 15, 2024, amid recent protests.

At the request of the Interim Government, the fact-finding team is tasked with establishing the facts, identifying those responsible, analyzing root causes, and providing concrete recommendations to address past violations and prevent future occurrences.

Individuals, groups, and organizations with relevant first-hand information about human rights abuses during this period are encouraged to submit their evidence. Submissions can be sent to [email protected]. The team will also conduct interviews with victims, law enforcement officers, medical practitioners, and witnesses.

The investigation, which is not a criminal inquiry and operates independently of national criminal justice processes, will maintain strict confidentiality throughout its course. The team will not grant media interviews during the investigation phase to uphold this confidentiality.

Following the on-site examination and data analysis, the UN Human Rights Office will release a comprehensive report detailing key findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on the investigation. (ILKHA)