London — The UK House of Commons has debated the worsening humanitarian situation in Bangladesh, citing reports of extreme violence, persecution, and repression under the country’s unelected interim government.
The petition, raised by residents of Woking, highlighted concerns about rising violent crime, religious extremism, politically motivated attacks, harassment of women, and persecution of religious and ethnic minorities. It warned that without international scrutiny, the situation could deteriorate further.
Petitioners urged the UK Government to recognize ongoing human rights abuses, press the United Nations to investigate potential risks of further repression and instability, and ensure accountability and justice for affected communities.
During the debate, Catherine West, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, reiterated the UK’s concerns. She recalled that in February 2025, UK human rights ambassador Eleanor Sanders visited Bangladesh to discuss justice, accountability, and freedoms with the interim administration. She also noted that Minister West herself had raised human rights concerns during a November 2024 visit with interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus.
The minister commended Bangladesh’s interim leadership for inviting the Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights to investigate last year’s unrest. She stressed that the UK continues to encourage collaboration with the UN and international partners to help Bangladesh move toward a stable democratic future.
The UK Government reaffirmed its support for consensus-building and democratic reforms in Bangladesh. It announced continued investment of up to £27 million through the Bangladesh Collaborative, Accountable and Peaceful Politics Program. The initiative aims to strengthen civil society, promote accountability, reduce corruption, and prevent violence.
