Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday (June 16) said the country would welcome United Nations support in ongoing investigations into enforced disappearances over the past 15 years.

He said, “I wish the United Nations were associated with our ongoing inquiry into the incidents of enforced disappearance. It will give the process some strength.” 

Prof Yunus said this during a meeting with senior UN officials at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka.

The UN officials include Grazyna Baranowska, Vice-Chairperson of the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID), and fellow member Ana Lorena Delgadillo Perez, who are currently visiting Bangladesh.

The UN delegation welcomed Bangladesh’s recent initiatives, including the formation of a national commission to investigate disappearances and the country's accession to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED). 

However, they noted that significant work remains to address the legacy of such cases.

The Chief Adviser acknowledged the challenges the commission is facing, including threats against its members, but reiterated the government’s commitment to pursuing justice.

“The commission has been under pressure, even threatened in various ways, but they are doing important work. When they submitted their last report, I told them we should even consider establishing a horror museum for visitors to understand the gravity of what happened,” Prof Yunus said.

He added that the tenure of the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances would be extended until December to allow it to continue its work.

Welcoming the UN delegation’s visit—the first in 13 years—Prof Yunus expressed hope for continued engagement and technical support.

“We are extremely happy that you're here. We want your support for the commission’s work and hope you will remain associated to provide guidance and strength,” he said.

Baranowska thanked the interim government for its commitment, describing the establishment of the commission as a “huge step forward.”

“Since 2013, we have been trying to engage on this issue in Bangladesh. This is a big commitment from your side and an honour for us,” she said.

She added that the UN team would also travel outside the capital to meet victims, civil society groups, and political representatives as part of their visit.

SMS/