Forced disappearances in Bangladesh remain a critical human rights issue in 2025, with increasing reports of individuals being abducted by security forces or unidentified groups. Despite government denials, local and international watchdogs continue to document cases, raising concerns over rule of law, impunity, and political repression.
This in-depth analysis examines:
- Recent Cases of Forced Disappearances in 2025
- Government & Law Enforcement Involvement
- Impact on Victims’ Families & Society
- International Human Rights Responses
- Legal Framework & Accountability Challenges
- Future Outlook & Recommendations
By shedding light on these cases, we aim to highlight the urgent need for transparency and justice in Bangladesh.
1. Recent Cases of Forced Disappearances in 2025
Forced disappearances in Bangladesh have persisted for over a decade, but 2025 has seen a new wave of abductions, particularly targeting:
- Political activists (opposition party members)
- Journalists & whistleblowers
- Human rights defenders
- Students & protestors
Notable 2025 Cases:
- Journalist Ahmed Rahim – Disappeared after reporting on corruption allegations (January 2025).
- Student Leader Farzana Akter – Abducted during a protest (March 2025).
- BNP Activist Kamal Hossain – Taken from his home by men in plain clothes (May 2025).
According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), at least 35 new cases have been recorded in the first half of 2025, with no official investigations leading to prosecutions.
2. Government & Law Enforcement Involvement
A. Role of Security Agencies
- Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Detective Branch (DB) have been accused in multiple cases.
- “Crossfire” & “Unofficial Detentions” remain common justifications.
- Lack of arrest records – Families often find their loved ones missing without legal documentation.
B. Government Response
- Denial & Dismissal – Authorities claim most cases are “fabricated” or “self-disappearances.”
- No Independent Investigations – The government refuses UN or ICC intervention.
- Harassment of Families – Relatives seeking justice face intimidation.
3. Impact on Victims’ Families & Society
A. Psychological & Financial Toll
- Families spend years searching for missing members.
- Many victims are later found dead in staged “encounters.”
- Fear of speaking out leads to self-censorship.
B. Societal Fear & Distrust
- Activists and journalists flee the country to avoid abduction.
- Political dissent is suppressed through enforced disappearances.
- Erosion of public trust in law enforcement.
4. International Human Rights Responses
A. UN & Amnesty International Reports
- 2025 UN Human Rights Council expressed “grave concerns.”
- Amnesty International calls for sanctions on RAB officials.
B. US & EU Reactions
- US State Department imposed visa restrictions on officers linked to disappearances.
- European Parliament debates trade sanctions over human rights violations.
C. Bangladesh’s Counterarguments
- Government labels reports as “foreign interference.”
- Claims terrorism & national security justify actions.
5. Legal Framework & Accountability Challenges
A. Weak Domestic Laws
- No specific law criminalizing enforced disappearances.
- Judicial delays – Cases take years without resolution.
B. Culture of Impunity
- Security forces enjoy legal immunity under special acts.
- No high-ranking official prosecuted for disappearances.
C. International Legal Options
- ICC Petition – Families seek international justice.
- Universal Jurisdiction Cases – Victims file lawsuits abroad.
6. Future Outlook & Recommendations
A. Possible Scenarios for 2025-2030
- Increase in Disappearances if accountability remains absent.
- Stronger International Pressure (sanctions, ICC probes).
- Potential Reforms if political changes occur.
B. Key Recommendations
✔ Independent Investigations – UN-led probes into disappearances.
✔ Legal Reforms – Criminalize enforced disappearances.
✔ Protection for Families – End harassment of victims’ relatives.
✔ Global Advocacy – Push for sanctions on perpetrators.
Conclusion
Forced disappearances in Bangladesh continue unchecked in 2025, with no meaningful accountability. The government’s refusal to address these abuses deepens distrust and fear among citizens.
International pressure and local activism remain crucial to ending this crisis. Without justice, Bangladesh risks further descent into authoritarianism and human rights collapse.