United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has said citizens must be able to participate in democratic governance and have a real say in decision-making.

While delivering his speech at a programme in Dhaka University on Tuesday, he also said that "free and fair" elections require an environment where freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly are respected.

This is an opportunity for inclusive, sustainable development policies that benefit everyone, Turk said.

He said inequality, cycles of revenge and retribution, marginalization, corruption, and gross human rights violations must be consigned to the past.

"There must be no repetition, no going back. The present and future belong to equality, to justice," Turk said, adding that Bangladesh is a rich tapestry of promise, culture, and creativity.

The UN human rights chief said it is full of potential and ideas and justifiable demands for a better present and a brighter future and to realise that potential, Bangladesh must draw a clear line in the sand.

"I take inspiration from your commitment to democracy and human rights. Keep it at the forefront of your struggle and lives. I stand together with all of you, as you look to build a more equal, more inclusive, and more just Bangladesh for all," Türk said.

The students and faculty of Dhaka University have a long, rich history of activism – mobilising powerfully over the past 80 years for independence, freedom of expression and language rights, for equal representation – and against military rule.

"And now, for democracy, accountability, and equality. As your distinguished Professor, Serajul Islam Chowdhury, once observed, this university has encouraged people to not only dream about freedom and equality, but to take action to move that dream closer to reality," he said.

Together with other students from both private and public universities, from madrasahs, colleges and schools, together with people from across the country, Turk said, they have shown great courage in standing up for justice and equality for the people of Bangladesh.

"So I am truly honoured to be speaking here today – at a pivotal time, and in a symbolic place. And I am humbled and inspired by your stories of bravery, resilience, solidarity, and commitment to human rights," said the UN human rights chief.

Young people, everywhere, are facing a tumultuous world, filled with deepening inequality and ongoing economic crises and uncertainty.

"Your present and future are being threatened by climate chaos that is becoming more destructive and ferocious every day. In Bangladesh, you know this better than most," Turk said.

He said Bangladesh now has an historic opportunity to renew and revitalise a genuine democracy.

"To deliver deep reform. To start a process of truth, justice and healing. To ensure that the benefits of development are enjoyed by all people. And to rebuild your country on a foundation of equality – where every voice is heard and valued, irrespective of class, gender, race, political ideology or religion," Turk said.

The pursuit of justice must also go beyond trials of those responsible, and address the root causes to achieve the broader social transformation to which you aspire, he said, adding that they need to look forward, not only backwards.

Such an approach should begin with a broad-based national dialogue to design a pathway towards truth, accountability, reparation, and national healing, Turk said.

"It must be inclusive and centered on survivors and victims. Let me also stress that psychosocial support is crucial following the trauma that many of you, your fellow students and loved ones have experienced, and I will be urging the international community to support you in this healing process," he mentioned.

Second, Turk said, at a broader level, Bangladesh has an important opportunity to confront longstanding human rights violations, rebuild an open, diverse and tolerant civic space, and reform key State institutions.

"This is essential to rebuild social cohesion, restore trust in institutions and ensure such abuse of power can never happen again," he said.

Bangladesh will have to grapple with decades of divisive politics that have not served its people well, Turk said, adding that a human rights approach calls for a level playing field that enables all political parties to participate freely.