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Published : 04 Oct 2025, 09:39 PM
A group of British lawmakers has voiced concern over what they describe as a “deteriorating” human rights situation in Bangladesh, urging the UK government, alongside the United Nations and the “wider international community”, to take a firm stance on the issue.
They also called for a “clear and time-bound pathway towards peaceful elections and the establishment of a stable civilian government”, emphasising that such measures are essential to restore trust and accountability.
The Times, one of the most influential dailies in the UK, published their call in an article titled "The rising tide of antisemitism in Britain" under its Letters to Editor section on Saturday, more than a year after an interim government was formed in Bangladesh.
The lawmakers highlighted what they called “systemic failures” in the country’s justice system and a rise in “politically motivated detentions”.
They also underscored “the banning of certain parties from forthcoming elections, and increasing violence -- including targeted attacks against minority communities”.
The letter urged the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the United Nations, and other international partners to “press the Bangladeshi authorities to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law -- ensuring access to justice, the protection of civil liberties, and an end to impunity”.
The letter was sent by:
● Steven Powles KC: A specialist criminal lawyer with particular expertise in international crime, extradition and human rights.
● Bob Blackman MP: A British Conservative Party politician serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Harrow East since 2010.
● Jas Athwal MP: A British Labour Party politician who has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ilford South since Jul 4, 2024.
● Neil Coyle MP: A British Labour Party politician who has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bermondsey and Old Southwark since 2015.
● Gurinder Singh: A British Labour Party politician serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Smethwick since the 2024 general election.
● Luke Akehurst: A British Labour Party politician and the current Member of Parliament (MP) for North Durham, a position he has held since Jul 4, 2024.
Baroness Smith of Llanfaes: A Welsh politician and a member of the House of Lords.
