The Confederation of Lawyers of Asia and the Pacific (COLAP) expresses it serious concern over the recent Human Right crisis in Bangladesh. After a popular uprising of people and the toppling down of previous authoritarian government, there was natural expectation that the country will move forward to a genuine democratic atmosphere. COLAP keenly observed that there are still uncertainty about Rule of Law, fair trial, freedom of judiciary and constitutional process. It is also a critical matter that lawlessness, mob trial, atrocities on free thinkers, ethnic and religious minorities has become a regular feature. Cultural activities focusing communal harmony and sustainable peace are being targeted and brutally attacked by religious extremist groups and parties. The ruling interim government led by Nobel Laureate Prof. Yunus is under huge pressure from far right and religious extremist political forces. The Imperialist forces with their long-term military ambition are meddling with the ongoing situation and blatantly taking the advantages from turbulent Bangladesh.

The COLAP demands immediate steps to ensure law and order in Bangladesh to maintain the international standard of human rights for all. In addition, COLAP considers that it is a constitutional obligation for the present interim government of Bangladesh to keep national integrity, sovereignty and democracy intact from the imperialist global powers. We call on the international community to rally behind Bangladesh as it creates its own path through a democratic process. COLAP strongly believes that sustainable peace, justice and democracy in Bangladesh will further accelerate peace in the Asia and Pacific.

The Executive Committee of COLAP, 23 November 2024