Photo: Collected
A three-member UN delegation has initiated discussions with the interim government to conduct preliminary investigations into human rights violations, including the killings during the anti-discrimination student movement.
Following a meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen on Thursday (August 22), Rory Mungoven, the Asia-Pacific head of the UN High Commissioner’s Office, shared this information.
Regarding the meeting, Mungoven informed the media that they held preliminary and exploratory discussions on how the interim government could be supported. The talks also focused on how the UN could assist the interim government and the people of Bangladesh during this historic moment.
However, Mungoven clarified that the UN delegation visiting Bangladesh is not an investigation team. The delegation aims to engage with the interim government, advisors, several ministries, and civil society to understand their needs and priorities. They will also assess how the High Commissioner’s office can provide support in these areas.
Mungoven further mentioned that the courage shown by the people of Bangladesh, especially the youth, in defending democracy and human rights has inspired UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk. Türk views this as a historic opportunity to restore democracy, undertake institutional reforms, and advance human rights. In this context, the UN is ready to offer any assistance to the interim government, civil society, and the people of Bangladesh.
Messenger/Shahed