Dhaka: The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances will be observed in Bangladesh on Sunday, joining global efforts to highlight the plight of individuals who have gone missing under mysterious or unlawful circumstances.
According to United News of Bangladesh, various human rights, political, and social organizations will hold programs to raise awareness and demand justice for the victims. The day emphasizes the slogan 'Victims First. Actions Now', stressing the importance of victims' rights to truth, justice, and reparation. It also calls on states and other stakeholders to actively prevent enforced disappearances.
Since 2011, the United Nations (UN) has observed August 30 as the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. The goal is to raise global awareness of enforced disappearances, trace missing individuals, and express solidarity with their families. This day is linked to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 20, 2006, which aims to prevent such disappearances and end impunity for those responsible. The convention became effective in 2010.
Families of disappeared individuals, alongside government and non-government organizations, commemorate the day through various programs. The main aim is to highlight the severe human rights violations associated with enforced disappearances and to urge states to ensure accountability, justice, and protection for victims and their families.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued a message on Saturday, on the eve of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. In his message, the Prime Minister described enforced disappearance as one of the most serious crimes and a severe human rights violation. He noted that it is a global issue, particularly prevalent in authoritarian systems and politically conflicted regions.
The Prime Minister expressed that a disappearance or abduction affects more than just the individual; it devastates the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of entire families. He extended his deepest sympathy and condolences to victims of enforced disappearances in Bangladesh and worldwide, as well as their families.
Tarique Rahman called for global unity and solidarity to ensure justice and accountability for those involved in enforced disappearances. On Saturday, he pledged that his government would strive to fulfill the aspirations of those who sacrificed their lives or suffered injuries in struggles for independence, democracy, and people's rights.
Speaking at a program at the Karabi Hall of the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon, where job appointment letters were handed to members of families affected by enforced disappearances, killings, and the July uprising, the Prime Minister affirmed that the government would not retreat from its commitments despite practical challenges in meeting expectations within the desired timeframe.