In his latest update at the 57th session of the Human Rights Council, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk spoke about the student movement in Bangladesh, praising it for championing human rights.
He also said Bangladesh now has a chance to move forward, as the interim government has promised a peaceful, inclusive process based on human rights and the rule of law. Turk’s office is helping the government by leading an independent investigation into recent human rights violations and supporting efforts for accountability, reconciliation, and long-overdue reforms.
Turk emphasized that human rights can bring positive change and make society more just and stable. He warned against “strongman” leaders who offer false solutions and blame certain groups for society’s problems, saying such scapegoating can eventually target anyone.
For elections, he urged voters to focus on what matters to them—homes, education, health, jobs, justice, and safety. He encouraged them to think about which candidates would uphold human rights, equality, and fair economic policies, while also cautioning voters to stay alert and critical of those offering unrealistic or harmful solutions.