Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has urged the creation of a strong and independent national institution to supervise Bangladesh’s security forces. Speaking on the worldwide situation at the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Monday, Türk reiterated the ongoing push for enhanced oversight of law enforcement agencies. This appeal follows a February 12, 2025, fact-finding report by his office detailing severe human rights violations during the July–August 2024 protests, which offered 44 recommendations including independent investigations and institutional reforms. The report also stressed that the National Human Rights Commission should have the direct authority to probe allegations against armed forces and police personnel, backed by sufficient resources and a transparent hiring process. Meanwhile, human rights advocates and legal professionals have voiced worries that recent legislation concerning the commission and anti-enforced disappearances falls short of international benchmarks due to shortcomings in investigative power and institutional independence.
Source: en.prothomalo.com
