UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression Irene Khan has warned that entrenched impunity is fueling mob violence in Bangladesh, following recent attacks on media outlets, cultural institutions, and journalists. She urged authorities to investigate swiftly and ensure accountability for those responsible.
In her statement, Khan condemned the arson and vandalism of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo, and the Chhayanaut cultural centre, as well as the assault on the editor of New Age. She described these incidents as deeply alarming and symptomatic of a broader assault on freedom of expression in the country.
The violence erupted on December 18, 2025, amid nationwide protests following the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a youth leader of the July 2024 uprising. Khan noted that since August 2024, journalists and civil society members have faced arrests, arbitrary detentions, smear campaigns, and killings, creating a climate of fear and intimidation.
She accused the interim government of perpetuating a culture of impunity, allowing threats and violent attacks against journalists, artists, and activists to go unchecked. Khan stressed that accountability and justice are essential to restoring public trust and protecting democratic freedoms.
The UN expert called on Bangladeshi authorities to take urgent measures to safeguard freedom of expression, ensure the safety of media and cultural institutions, and uphold international human rights obligations. Her warning underscores growing international concern over the state of civil liberties in Bangladesh.
