EU for reforms in ICT legal framework

The European Union has expressed "concern" over the legal framework of Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), calling for revisions to align it with international human rights standards. 

The EU emphasised the need for due process throughout all stages of legal proceedings and encouraged swift reforms.

During recent discussions between Bangladesh and the EU, both parties highlighted the importance of transitional justice in light of the violent crackdown on protesters in July and August, as well as previous human rights violations. The discussions underscored the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable and promoting justice for victims and survivors.

In a joint statement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the rights and safety of women, children, minorities, and marginalized groups. According to the EU, no individual should live in fear of violence, harassment, or discrimination, and law and order "should be ensured" for all, especially for vulnerable communities.

The interim government, in response, condemned all forms of violence and reiterated its goal to prevent any such incidents from occurring.

The 11th meeting of the sub-group on good governance and human rights under the EU-Bangladesh Joint Commission framework took place in Dhaka, co-chaired by Mohammad Mohiuddin, Head of the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division at the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, and Rensje Teerink, Head of the South Asia Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS). Observers from EU member state embassies in Dhaka also attended the meeting.