United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has said that the student movement in Bangladesh, bore human rights as its torch.
In a statement, also posted on his Twitter handle, Volker Turk said Bangladesh now had an opportunity to chart a new future, with the interim government making "publicly clear its commitment to a peaceful and inclusive process grounded in human rights and the rule of law".
"My Office is supporting the authorities, including by conducting an independent fact-finding mission into recent alleged human rights violations, and on accountability, processes of reconciliation and healing, and other essential, long-delayed
In his statement, he emphasised how human rights could trigger positive changes in society and steer the world towards greater justice and stability.For elections in general, he urged voters to "keep in mind the issues that matter most to them - be it a home, education for their children, their health or job, justice, their family and loved ones, the environment, to be free from violence, tackling corruption, being heard.""I urge voters to ask themselves which of the political platforms or candidates will work for the human rights of everyone. Which will promote equality of opportunity and strive to foster economies that offer decent work for decent pay? Which of the political parties have human rights and solidarity as part of their vision, rather than undermining them?," he said.He urged all voters to be vigilant.
"Be wary of the shrill voices, the 'strongman' types that throw glitter in our eyes, offering illusory solutions that deny reality. As I said earlier, know that when one group is singled out as a scapegoat for society's ills, one day your own might be next."
