Human Rights Day 2024: JMBF Founder Highlights Human Rights Violations in Bangladesh at Paris Event

Paris, December 12, 2024 – In celebration of Human Rights Day 2024, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder and President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), participated in a high-profile event at the Hôtel du Ministre, Quai d'Orsay, Paris, on December 10, 2024. Organized by the Ministry of European and Foreign Affairs, the event convened prominent human rights advocates, government officials, and international representatives to address global human rights challenges.

The event opened with remarks by Isabelle Rome, French Ambassador for Human Rights and former Minister for Equity, and Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, setting the stage for a series of engaging discussions moderated by Frédéric Jung, Deputy Director of the United Nations, International Organizations, Human Rights, and La Francophonie.

JMBF President Attends View Exchange Meeting with French Human Rights Ambassador

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the President of JMBF attended a significant View Exchange meeting hosted by Mrs. Isabelle Rome, the French Ambassador for Human Rights and responsible for the duty of remembrance concerning the international dimension of the Shoah and spoliations. The event took place at the Quai d'Orsay in Paris, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and gathered former laureates of the prestigious Marianne Initiative.

The meeting offered a platform for in-depth discussions on human rights issues, with a special focus on the role of remembrance in fostering understanding of the Shoah and its lasting impact. Mrs. Rome, known for her advocacy in international human rights, led the conversation, providing insight into France's efforts to preserve the memory of historical injustices and promote human dignity.

JMBF Founder Advocate Shahanur Islam Attends IGLYO’s 40th Anniversary Members' General Assembly 2024 in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), recently joined LGBTQI+ youth advocates from across Europe to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the International LGBTQI+ Youth and Student Organisation (IGLYO). This milestone Members' General Assembly, held from October 24 to 27, 2024, in Ljubljana, Slovenia, commemorated four decades of IGLYO’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for LGBTQI+ youth across Europe and beyond.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) Joins MenEngage Europe as Newest Member

Paris, August 13, 2024 — JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has been officially granted membership in MenEngage Europe, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and transform masculinities. The news was confirmed today following the acceptance of JMBF's membership application by the MenEngage Europe vetting committee.

"We are grateful for your commitment to gender equality and transforming masculinities, and we are happy to invite you to our community!" MenEngage Europe stated in their official communication to JMBF. "As a member of MenEngage Europe, you also become part of the global MenEngage Alliance. We are looking forward to learning from you, cooperating together, and getting to know you better."

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France Joins Protest in Paris Against Minority Repression in Bangladesh

Members of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) gathered at Place de la République today on August 12, 2024 to protest against the ongoing repression of minority communities in Bangladesh. The demonstration was part of a broader international effort to draw attention to the increasing violence and discrimination faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh.

Advocate Shanur Islam, the founder and President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France, attended the protest, passionately advocating for the safety and rights of minority communities. He called on the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to protect all minority groups and to impose exemplary punishments on those responsible for the atrocities.

BANGLADESH: JMBF Welcomes the Reserved Quota for Third Gender Individuals in Government Jobs

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) heartily welcomes the landmark verdict passed by the Supreme Court of Bangladesh for the reservation of quotas for third gender individuals in government jobs.

On July 21, 2024, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh mandated the reservation of quotas for third gender individuals in government jobs. The verdict also includes provisions for physically challenged persons, ethnic minorities, and relatives of veterans who fought in the 1971 War of Independence.

JMBF Protests Against Violence in Bangladesh with Human Chain Demonstration at Paris, France

Paris, July 20, 2024- JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has condemned the recent violence in Bangladesh, which erupted during clashes between quota reform students and law enforcement agencies from July 10 to 20, 2024.

Today, July 20, 2024, at around 5 PM, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder and President of JMBF, along with Moynuddin Khan, Treasurer of the organization, joined a human chain and demonstration at Republic Square in Paris. The protest saw participation from the Bangladeshi student community and expatriates residing in France.

JMBF Founder Shahanur Islam Speaks at Geneva Event on Gender, Justice, and Refugee Law

Advocate Shahanur Islam, the founder and president of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), delivered a compelling speech today at the 2024 NGO Consultations Side Event titled "Gender, Justice, and the Law: Legal and Practical Challenges for Refugees," held at the Geneva International Conference Centre on 10 June 2024. The event focused on the critical issue of access to legal services for women, girls, and LGBTQI+ refugees.

This side event was organized by PILnet, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), St. Andrews Refugee Service (StARS), and members of the legal community. It aimed to share knowledge and best practices on addressing the legal and practical challenges faced by refugees, particularly in the context of gender justice.

JMBF Attends International Conference on Combatting LGBTphobia in Paris

Paris, May 18, 2024- On May 17, 2024, the French Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs hosted a significant conference dedicated to advancing the rights and protections for LGBT+ individuals globally. The International Day Against LGBTphobia conference, held at the Quai d’Orsay, attracted a diverse array of human rights advocates and legal experts who addressed the urgent need for the universal decriminalization of homosexuality.

Among the notable attendees was Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder and President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF). Islam, a prominent figure in the fight for LGBT+ rights in Bangladesh, contributed significantly to the discussions at the conference.

JMBF and SIL Join Forces at Salon De Association LGBT+ in Paris, France

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) and Solidarity International LGBTQI (SIL) recently collaborated to participate in the Salon De Association LGBT+ organized by the Inter LGBT in Paris, France, on April 7 and 8, 2024.

Representatives including Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF, Robert Simon, President of SIL, WHITNEY ANTHONY, and Hervé CALDO, Board member of SIL, were present at the event on behalf of their respective organizations amongst others.

The highlight of their joint participation was the establishment of an information booth, where JMBF and SIL showcased an array of educational materials, informational resources, and communication tools. This booth served as a hub for engaging with attendees, disseminating crucial information, and fostering dialogue on LGBTQI rights, activism, and advocacy efforts.

JMBF Secures Grant to Publish Groundbreaking LGBTQI+ Rights Report in Bangladesh 2022

In a significant stride towards amplifying LGBTQI+ rights advocacy, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has been awarded a grant from the Embassy of France in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The grant, received on April 1, 2024, is earmarked for the publication of the "Annual State of LGBTQI+ Rights in Bangladesh 2022" report.

This collaborative effort between JusticeMakers Bangladesh (JMBD) and JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) signifies a landmark initiative in documenting and addressing violations against LGBTQI+ individuals in Bangladesh. The report is poised to provide an exhaustive analysis of the challenges faced by the LGBTQI+ community, encompassing legal, social, and cultural dimensions throughout the year 2022.

JMBF President Raises Concerns Over Hate Speech and Misinformation to French President Macron

At the culmination of the historic constitutional sealing ceremony for the right to abortion on International Women’s Day, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), engaged in a brief yet significant discussion with President Emmanuel Macron of France. The conversation, held at the iconic Place Vendôme in Paris, underscored pressing concerns regarding hate speech and misinformation originating from Bangladeshi politicians, particularly targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) Granted Formal Membership in Transgender Europe (TGEU)

In a significant development for the LGBTQI+ rights movement, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has officially become a member of Transgender Europe (TGEU), on 6th February 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the organization's commitment to advancing the rights and visibility of transgender individuals.

TGEU, a prominent organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of transgender and gender-diverse people across Europe and Central Asia, welcomed JMBF into its fold with great enthusiasm. The announcement was made following JMBF's expressed interest in joining TGEU, showcasing mutual dedication to amplifying transgender voices and addressing systemic inequalities.

As a newly inducted member, JMBF gains access to a host of benefits provided by TGEU. These include privileged information about events, campaigns, funding opportunities, and other pertinent resources through a dedicated members-only mailing list. Furthermore, JMBF will have access to capacity-building support in various crucial areas such as networking, fundraising, community organizing, advocacy, and burn-out prevention, strengthening its ability to effect positive change within the transgender community.

Human Rights Lawyer Addresses LGBTQI+ Violence in Bangladesh at International Conference in Paris

In a stirring address at the International Conference on Persecution of LGBT+ people held at Gaîté Lyrique, Paris, Shahanur Islam, a Bangladeshi Human Rights lawyer and Founder President of JusticeMaker Bangladesh in France (JMBF), shed light on the harrowing reality faced by LGBTQI+ individuals in Bangladesh. 

The conference, jointly organized by esteemed organizations including the Association for the Universal Decriminalization of Homosexuality (ADUH), ILGA World, Egides, Stop Homophobia, and LGBT International Solidarity on 6th February 2024, provided a platform for advocates and activists to discuss and address the global panorama of violence against the LGBTQI+ community.

Shahanur Islam's presentation delved into the findings of a media monitoring report on violence against LGBTQI+ people in Bangladesh throughout 2022, painting a stark picture of the challenges faced by this marginalized community. According to the report, a total of 204 LGBTQI+ individuals were subjected to significant violence across 51 incidents, ranging from killings and physical assaults to psychological abuse, attempted suicides, and various forms of harassment and extortion.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) Receives Membership in the Association for the Universal Decriminalization of Homosexuality.

In a historic development, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), a human rights organization based in France aiming to ensure the rights of LGBT people in Bangladesh, has been honored with membership in the prestigious Association for the Universal Decriminalization of Homosexuality (ADUH) on 16th January 2024. This recognition marks a significant stride in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the decriminalization of homosexuality.

The Association for the Universal Decriminalization of Homosexuality is renowned for its unwavering commitment to advocating for the decriminalization of homosexuality, as well as establishing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and fostering inclusivity on an international scale. The inclusion of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) underscores the growing importance of collaboration between organizations across borders to achieve common goals in the realm of human rights.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has long been at the forefront of championing the rights of marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ population. This acknowledgment by the Association for the Universal Decriminalization of Homosexuality highlights the organization's dedicated efforts in promoting equality and justice.

JMBF Receives 1000 Euro Solidarity Donation from Solidarity International LGBT

Paris, France; 2nd January 2024: In a gesture of global solidarity, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) received a significant donation of 1000.00 (one thousand) Euros from Solidarity International LGBT (SIL), a France-based non-profit association. This generous contribution is earmarked for the procurement of computer equipment, pivotal for monitoring, documenting, and reporting human rights violations against the sexual minority in Bangladesh.

The funds will also fuel JMBF's efforts in conducting lobbying, campaigns, and advocacy work aimed at bringing perpetrators of violations to justice and advancing the cause of decriminalizing homosexuality in Bangladesh.

Expressing profound gratitude, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF and a prominent human rights lawyer, extended heartfelt thanks to Mr. Robert Simon, President of SIL, and the entire SIL team on behalf of the JMBF family. He emphasized the critical role this donation plays in fortifying their commitment to safeguarding the rights of sexual minorities in Bangladesh.

JMBF Founder Shahanur Islam Addresses at Seminar on Asylum Process in France

Paris,France; November 19, 2023: In a compelling seminar organized by Solidarities Asie France (SAF) in Paris on November 18, 2023, Bangladeshi Human Rights Lawyer and Founder President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh, Advocate Shahanur Islam, took center stage to shed light on reasons compelling Bangladeshi citizens to leave their homeland for Europe, particularly France, and seek asylum. The event drew the participation of around 40 Bangladeshi asylum seekers at various stages of their application.

The seminar, aimed at providing valuable insights into the asylum procedures at different stages, featured notable speakers, including France Lawyer Mr. Akash Helal, Paris Youth Councillor Nayan NK, and Researcher Gaktane Lamarche Vadel.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) Participates Paris Peace Forum 2023 in France

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) proudly participated in the prestigious Paris Peace Forum 2023, marking the 6th edition of this international gathering held at the historic Palais Brongniart in the heart of Paris, France, from November 10th to 11th, 2023.

Mr. Moynuddin Khan, Treasurer of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France, attends as one of the esteemed delegates at Paris Peace Forum 2023. JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) emphasized the importance of facilitating dialogue, creating action-oriented coalitions, and defining norms to provide efficient responses to the pressing challenges of our time.

ReportOUT and JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France Collaborate to Study LGBTQI Issues in Bangladesh

In a landmark move, ReportOUT, a UK-based human rights research organization, partners with JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) to delve into the realities of sexual and gender minorities in Bangladesh.

In a groundbreaking collaboration for human rights advocacy, two internationally recognized organizations, ReportOUT from the United Kingdom and JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), have officially sealed a Memorandum of Understanding. The agreement, inked in October 2023, is poised to undertake an extensive study focusing on the LGBTQI community in Bangladesh.

Representatives Drew Dalton, Chair, and Founder, alongside Phil Thomas, Lead Trustee of Human Rights Research, represented ReportOUT. On the other side, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), stood as the face of the Memorandum of Understanding.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) Participates in the World Democracy Forum 2023 in Strasbourg, France

Paris, France; November 8, 2023: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) proudly participated in the prestigious World Democracy Forum 2023, which took place in Trausbourg, France, from November 6th to 8th. The forum was organized by the Council of Europe in collaboration with the Strasbourg City Council, the European Collectivity of Alsace, the Grand Est Region, and the French Government.

Madame Tanne Bithi Sarder, Vice President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), was among the distinguished participants who convened at this international forum.