A delegation from the ‘Hand in Hand Foundation’ along with representatives from civil society held a constructive meeting with Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Mr. Ondřej Dostál to discuss the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh and its far-reaching impact on governance, democracy, and human rights.
During the meeting, the delegation expressed deep concern over the current interim government in Bangladesh, describing it as unconstitutional. They highlighted that the prevailing situation is contributing to growing political instability across the country.
The delegates presented detailed accounts of increasing arrests and detentions of political leaders as well as journalists who express dissenting views or criticize authorities. The discussion also touched on various forms of human rights violations, including unlawful detentions, suppression of free expression, restrictions on peaceful assembly, and intimidation of civil society activists.
Participants further identified the rise of extremism and hate speech in the political and social arena as a serious threat, noting how these trends fuel insecurity, polarization, and fear among ordinary citizens.
Special emphasis was placed on the fragile condition of minority communities. The delegation warned that due to weakened institutional protection mechanisms, minorities are facing heightened threats, discrimination, and targeted intimidation.
The meeting also explored how the international community, global human rights networks, and democratic institutions within the European Union could support Bangladesh in achieving a peaceful political resolution, safeguarding human rights, and restoring constitutional and accountable governance.
The delegation was led by Dr. Hasan Mahmud, and included AFM Golam Jelani, Secretary General of the Hand in Hand Foundation, along with other representatives working on human rights and democratic governance.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Hand in Hand Foundation thanked MEP Ondřej Dostál for his time and reaffirmed its commitment to continued dialogue and constructive collaboration with international partners.
