Bangladesh, a densely populated South Asian nation, has made significant economic progress in recent years. However, human rights violations remain a critical concern. The 2025 Human Rights Report highlights ongoing issues such as extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, suppression of free speech, and labor abuses.
This report examines the current state of human rights in Bangladesh, analyzing key violations, government responses, and international reactions. It also explores recommendations for improving the human rights situation in the country.
Key Human Rights Violations in Bangladesh (2025)
1. Extrajudicial Killings & Enforced Disappearances
Bangladesh has long faced allegations of extrajudicial killings by law enforcement agencies, particularly the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). In 2025, reports indicate:
- At least 50 extrajudicial killings documented by human rights groups.
- Over 100 cases of enforced disappearances, with victims often linked to political opposition.
- Lack of accountability—no significant prosecutions of security personnel involved.
International organizations, including Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International, have repeatedly urged the Bangladesh government to end impunity for security forces.
2. Crackdown on Freedom of Speech & Press
Journalists, activists, and critics of the government continue to face harassment, arrests, and violence. Key incidents in 2025 include:
- Arrests of journalists under the Digital Security Act (DSA), now replaced by the Cyber Security Act (CSA), which retains repressive provisions.
- Shutdowns of independent media outlets critical of the government.
- Increased online surveillance & censorship, restricting dissent on social media.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranks Bangladesh 145th out of 180 countries in the 2025 Press Freedom Index, citing government pressure on media.
3. Political Repression & Crackdown on Opposition
Bangladesh’s political climate remains highly polarized, with the ruling Awami League accused of suppressing opposition parties:
- Mass arrests of opposition activists (Bangladesh Nationalist Party – BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami).
- Violent clashes during protests, leading to deaths and injuries.
- Restrictions on peaceful assembly through excessive police force.
The US State Department’s 2025 Human Rights Report highlights politically motivated prosecutions and judicial harassment of opposition leaders.
4. Labor Rights Violations & Exploitation
Despite Bangladesh’s booming garment industry, workers face:
- Low wages (below living wage standards).
- Unsafe working conditions, with factory accidents still occurring.
- Union suppression—workers protesting for better pay are often fired or arrested.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has urged Bangladesh to improve labor laws and ensure fair wages.
5. Gender-Based Violence & Discrimination
Women and minorities in Bangladesh continue to experience:
- High rates of domestic violence & sexual assault—only a fraction of cases are reported due to social stigma.
- Child marriage remains prevalent despite laws against it.
- Discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities, with same-sex relationships criminalized.
6. Rohingya Refugee Crisis & Human Trafficking
Bangladesh hosts over 1 million Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. Conditions in camps remain dire:
- Restricted movement & limited access to education/employment.
- Rising crime & human trafficking networks exploiting refugees.
- Forced repatriation attempts despite unsafe conditions in Myanmar.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) warns of a growing humanitarian crisis if international support declines.
Government Response & International Reactions
1. Government Denials & Deflections
Bangladesh authorities often dismiss human rights allegations, claiming:
- “Law enforcement acts within legal boundaries.”
- “Foreign reports are biased and politically motivated.”
- “Progress is being made in labor and women’s rights.”
However, little concrete action has been taken to address systemic abuses.
2. US & EU Sanctions
In response to human rights abuses:
- The US imposed sanctions on RAB officials in 2021, which remain in effect.
- The European Parliament has called for trade restrictions if labor rights are not improved.
- Global brands face pressure to ensure ethical sourcing from Bangladesh.
3. UN & Human Rights Organizations’ Concerns
- UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has urged Bangladesh to allow independent investigations into disappearances.
- Amnesty International demands repeal of repressive laws like the Cyber Security Act.
- Transparency International highlights corruption in law enforcement as a key issue.
Recommendations for Improving Human Rights in Bangladesh
To address these violations, Bangladesh should:
1. End Impunity for Security Forces
- Prosecute personnel involved in extrajudicial killings & torture.
- Disband or reform RAB under international oversight.
2. Protect Freedom of Speech & Press
- Repeal or amend the Cyber Security Act to prevent misuse.
- Allow independent media to operate without harassment.
3. Ensure Fair Trials & Political Freedom
- Release unjustly detained activists & opposition members.
- Allow free and fair elections without intimidation.
4. Improve Labor Rights
- Increase minimum wage to match living costs.
- Allow unions to form without retaliation.
5. Strengthen Women’s & Minority Rights
- Enforce laws against child marriage & domestic violence.
- Decriminalize same-sex relationships to align with international standards.
6. Support Rohingya Refugees
- Ensure safe living conditions in camps.
- Oppose forced returns until Myanmar guarantees safety.
Conclusion
The 2025 Human Rights Report on Bangladesh reveals ongoing systemic abuses, from extrajudicial killings to press censorship and labor exploitation. While the government denies many allegations, international pressure is growing.
Without genuine reforms, Bangladesh risks further isolation, sanctions, and social unrest. Immediate action is needed to protect human rights, ensure justice, and uphold democratic freedoms.