Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, held a views-exchange meeting with coordinators of the student movements from before the 24- mass uprising at Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building of Dhaka University on Tuesday.
DU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan delivered the welcoming address, with the university proctor Saifuddin Ahmed, officials from the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Dhaka also in attendance.
Emphasizing the need for justice regarding recent and past human rights violations in Bangladesh, Volker Turk said that the country has an opportunity to address human rights violations sustainably and to reform key state institutions.
He noted that it is essential to establish a democratic process grounded in human rights, saying, “An open environment is necessary for journalists, laborers, community workers, and other human rights defenders to work freely and independently.
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The courage and sacrifice of Bangladesh’s youth inspire them. They are ready to accompany and support these young people on their journey, he said, adding that they have already begun their work with them (youths) through information-gathering and fact-finding missions.”
“We aim to assist the interim government in building institutions from a human rights perspective, restoring civil rights, ensuring accountability, and facilitating processes for progress,” he added.
VC Niaz shared that a committee has been formed to identify those involved in the brutal events of July and August on campus. This committee will provide all possible cooperation to the UN’s fact-finding team to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Referring to Dhaka University as the “AP Center” of the student movement, the VC expressed a desire to move forward with students and coordinators in building a new Bangladesh.
He reiterated the university's commitment to upholding human rights and humanitarian values, announcing the establishment of a “July Revolution Corner” on campus to honor the dignity of the July-August uprisings. Academic conferences and workshops will be organized centered around this uprising.
Afterward, the UN High Commissioner answered various questions from the students.
Earlier, the High Commissioner for Human Rights accompanied by others visited the DU campus to observe murals and graffiti created by youth during the July uprising.