Speakers warn of rising human rights violations, call for accountability

Speakers at a discussion marking International Human Rights Day and the closing of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence voiced grave concern over the growing incidence of human rights violations across Bangladesh.

They said women, children, minorities and marginalised communities continue to face disproportionate harm, adding that silence is no longer acceptable and citizens must speak out against injustice. Strong condemnation was also expressed over the recent derogatory comments and online harassment directed at Begum Rokeya, despite her being no longer alive.

The dialogue, organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), was held on Thursday (11 December) at the Alok Training Center in Dhaka. This year's Human Rights Day theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials", underscored that rights must be upheld consistently in daily life.

Speaking as Chief Guest, Md Daud Miah, ndc, Director General (Additional Secretary) of the NGO Affairs Bureau under the Chief Adviser's Office, stressed the need to cultivate empathy alongside sympathy. He urged development organisations to work with their communities as members of their institutions rather than simply beneficiaries. "If beneficiaries are empowered to choose what is right, we will make significant progress," he said.

Presenting the keynote speech, Banasree Mitra Neogi, Director – Rights and Governance Programmes at MJF, said human rights are not distant legal constructs but closely tied to dignity and equality in families, workplaces and society. She noted that development and digital progress cannot be sustained without justice. "Human rights are universal regardless of birth, religion, gender or social identity," she said, adding that amplifying marginalised voices is essential in a period of global crises and climate hazards.

Freedom fighter and human rights activist Sultana Kamal, Chairperson of the Foundation for Human Rights Culture, said ensuring freedom of expression does not require new laws but fulfilment of state responsibility. Warning that violations occur daily, she said, "Citizens must raise their voices; silence is not an option." She added that a future government must prioritise civil liberties. She also expressed concern that tolerance is diminishing in society, placing children at risk.

Shaheen Anam, Executive Director of MJF, said human rights must be practised every day. She condemned rising violence against women, children and minorities, and denounced the degrading online harassment directed at Begum Rokeya as a serious violation of rights.

Representatives from youth groups, civil society, development partners, journalists, and marginalised communities—including persons with disabilities, indigenous groups, Dalits and the Hijra community—demanded proper enforcement of the law, accountability and a culture of respect, empathy and equality across society.