STATEMENT: JMBF Deeply Condemns and Calls for Justice Regarding the Tragic Violence in Bangladesh

Paris, France: August 04, 2024: JusticeMakers Bangladesh Foundation (JMBF) strongly condemns the atrocious acts of violence, including death, injury, and vandalism, that have erupted in Bangladesh today, August 04, 2024.

According to news published in various newspapers in Bangladesh, at least 98 people, including 14 policemen, have died, and countless others were injured in day-long clashes between protesters supported by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its affiliated wings, other opposition parties, police, and the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League and its affiliated wings. These clashes centered on the non-cooperation movement called by Students Against Discrimination (SAD).

STATEMENT: JMBF Calls for Immediate Halt to the Arbitrary Mass Arrests and Unconditional Release of Arrested Protesters in Bangladesh

Paris, France; August 01, 2024: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) is gravely concerned about the recent wave of arbitrary mass arrests and alleged acts of torture against Anti Quota Movement protesters, students, and members of opposition political parties in Bangladesh.

JMBF demands the immediate halt to the arbitrary mass arrests of protesters, students, and opposition party members, and calls for the unconditional release of all individuals detained for exercising their right to protest and political expression.

According to various news outlets in Bangladesh and internationally, JMBF has learned that, as of today, in consequence of the Anti Quota Movement protests since July 17, around 600 cases have been filed against protesters nationwide. Most of these cases were filed by the police, some by leaders of the Bangladesh Student League and Bangladesh Youth League, and a few by family members of victims.

STATEMENT: JMBF Urges UN Investigation into Recent Deadly Violence in Bangladesh

Paris, France; July 26, 2024: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) expresses profound concern and demands justice for the victims of the recent surge of violence across various regions of Bangladesh. 

As of today, the violence has tragically resulted in the deaths of over 203 citizens, including students and children, and has caused widespread injuries and extensive damage to both private and public property. This violence not only disrupts daily life but also undermines the principles of peace, justice, and human rights in Bangladesh.

JMBF calls for a comprehensive investigation into all incidents of killings, injuries, and property damage, under the direct supervision of the United Nations and international human rights experts. We also advocate for exemplary punishment for the alleged perpetrators through prompt and impartial trials, with the establishment of a special tribunal based on the investigation's findings.

Additionally, JMBF emphasizes the need for physical and psychological support for the victims and their families, including adequate financial compensation and assurance of their physical security.

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.

BANGLADESH: JMBF Deeply Concerned and Protests Over the Killing of Six Individuals, Including Three Students, During Nationwide Student Protests Against Quota System

Paris, France; July 17, 2024: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) expresses its profound grief and deep concern over the tragic killings of at least six people, including three students, and the injury of several hundred others during violent clashes between quota protesters, Chhatra League (BCL) activists, and police on July 16, 2024, in Bangladesh.

France-based human rights organization committed to justice, human rights, and the rule of law, JMBF condemns the excessive use of force by law enforcement agencies and the violent actions perpetrated by the Chhatra League. The right to peaceful assembly and protest is a fundamental democratic principle, and it is distressing to witness the brutal suppression of these rights.