Rights Groups Urge Bangladesh PM to Safeguard Press Freedom and Human Rights

A coalition of rights groups has urged Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to take significant steps to protect human rights and ensure press freedom. In a joint letter, they called for the release of detained journalists and a review of restrictive cybercrime laws. The organizations emphasized the need for an independent National Human Rights Commission and highlighted ongoing threats to freedom of expression, particularly against journalists and minority communities. They urged the government to create a legacy of positive change through systematic reforms and accountability.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 13:20 IST

Call for Action on Human Rights in Bangladesh

Dhaka, March 19 - A coalition of human rights organizations has reached out to Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, pressing for decisive measures to enhance human rights protections and ensure press freedom within the nation.

In a collective letter, the Committee to Protect Journalists, along with eight other rights groups, urged the Bangladeshi government to publicly reaffirm its dedication to media independence, release imprisoned journalists, and reassess legal actions taken against journalists under the country's cybercrime regulations, including the Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act.

The letter highlighted that certain ordinances introduced by the previous interim government led by Muhammad Yunus contain clauses that jeopardize freedom of expression and should not be permanently enacted.

"Individuals such as journalists, musicians, artists, and writers are facing threats and violence from aggressive groups aiming to silence them, often through frivolous legal actions. It is imperative that your administration not only upholds the law regarding freedom of expression but also guarantees protection for all citizens against violence and legal misuse," the letter emphasized.

The organizations called for an end to arbitrary surveillance, censorship, and internet blackouts, while also urging the government to adopt recommendations from the Media Reform Commission that align with global standards for press freedom.

They demanded thorough and unbiased investigations into assaults on Bangladeshi journalists and media outlets, including Prothom Alo and Daily Star, which faced attacks in December 2025 during the interim government's rule.

The letter underscored the necessity of a robust and independent National Human Rights Commission to investigate incidents and avert future violations.

The signatories pointed out that arbitrary detentions have been widespread under the interim government, with freedom of expression under threat due to the harassment of journalists and media organizations.

"An increase in mob violence has undermined the rule of law, particularly endangering minority groups. The rights of women and girls must be safeguarded in a climate where religious factions seek to limit their freedoms. Security forces have continued to commit violations, including assaults and torture in the Chittagong Hill Tracts," the letter concluded.

The organizations urged the government to utilize its time in power to foster a legacy of positive transformation by endorsing systematic reforms and accountability.