The United Nations (UN) rights office has urged the interim government of Bangladesh to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates ahead of the upcoming general elections.
In its latest report, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recommended the reintroduction of special measures, particularly in the period leading up to the elections, to guarantee that all participating political parties and candidates have equal opportunities.
The OHCHR released its Fact-Finding Report, titled *”Human Rights Violations and Abuses related to the Protests of July and August 2024 in Bangladesh,”* from its Geneva office on February 12. The report called for the creation of a safe and enabling environment for free and genuine elections, emphasizing the importance of respecting fundamental freedoms.
The UN body also recommended strengthening oversight institutions to balance the political influence over governance and enhancing citizens’ participation in public affairs and decision-making through participatory mechanisms.
Additionally, the OHCHR urged the Bangladesh authorities to engage in broad consultations with political parties to ensure that internal party management respects human rights principles. The report also stressed the importance of avoiding political party bans, stating that such actions would hinder the return to a genuine multiparty democracy and disenfranchise a significant portion of the electorate.
The UN rights office further recommended the effective implementation of laws that ensure equality between men and women in political and public life, including the use of special measures where necessary.
In response, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam addressed the media in Dhaka on Saturday, stating that the interim government has already outlined an election roadmap. “We have stated that if political parties agree to proceed with minimal reforms, elections can be held by December this year,” Alam said.
However, he noted that if additional reforms are implemented, the elections may be delayed by up to three months.
On December 16, 2024, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus indicated that the general elections could be scheduled between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026, contingent on completing necessary reforms.
