London, June 12 — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declined a formal request to meet with representatives of Bangladesh’s interim government, signaling growing diplomatic unease in London over the country’s current political trajectory.
According to UK government sources, the Bangladesh delegation—seeking greater international legitimacy—had requested a meeting with Starmer during their visit to London. However, 10 Downing Street reportedly communicated that such a meeting would not take place at this time.
Officials familiar with the matter indicated that the decision reflects concerns over the legitimacy of Bangladesh’s interim administration, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, which has faced mounting international criticism over its handling of human rights, democratic processes, and press freedoms since assuming power earlier this year.
The UK has joined other Western nations in expressing alarm over reports of political repression, judicial interference, and media censorship in Bangladesh. In recent weeks, British lawmakers and civil society groups have also raised questions about the detention of opposition figures and journalists under the current regime.
A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office reiterated the UK’s “strong support for democratic governance, the rule of law, and fundamental rights in Bangladesh,” adding that “all engagements with foreign governments are guided by these principles.”
Observers see Starmer’s refusal as a diplomatic rebuff to Dr. Yunus’s administration, which has been actively seeking endorsements from Western capitals amid growing domestic and international backlash.
As the political situation in Dhaka continues to deteriorate, pressure is mounting on the UK and other Western democracies to take a clearer stance. The decision not to extend an official meeting is likely to be interpreted in Bangladesh as part of this emerging international posture.