Diaspora Appeals to Italian Leadership
The Bangladeshi diaspora in Italy has sent letters to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, condemning alleged human rights violations and the suppression of democratic culture in Bangladesh. The communications, dated October 11, 2025, highlight concerns regarding the administration of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. The diaspora described Yunus's government as 'unelected' and lacking a democratic mandate, accusing it of repeatedly postponing elections and banning the Awami League, the party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Allegations of Widespread Repression
The letters from the Bangladeshi community in Italy detailed a range of serious accusations against the interim government. These include:
- The arbitrary detention of hundreds of Awami League members.
- The killing of over 200 supporters since the interim administration assumed power.
- An 'unprecedented' rise in violent crime, including looting, robbery, rape, and murder, with more than 600 cases of lynching and over 2,500 cases of torture, many religiously motivated.
- Persecution of religious minorities, specifically mentioning Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
- The silencing of the media, with over 160 journalists associated with the previous Awami League government reportedly having their press accreditations suspended.
- A 'show trial' against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, denying her the right to fair legal representation.
Context of the Interim Government
The interim government in Bangladesh, with Muhammad Yunus as Chief Adviser, was formed in August 2024 following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League regime amidst widespread protests. Yunus was sworn in on August 8, 2024. International human rights organizations have also voiced concerns about the human rights situation under this interim administration. Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported in October 2025 that the interim government was increasingly using an amended counterterrorism law to arrest alleged supporters of the deposed Awami League government. HRW also noted arbitrary detentions and alleged mistreatment in custody. Amnesty International, in August 2024, urged any new interim government in Bangladesh to prioritize human rights and avoid past mistakes.
Call for International Attention
The Bangladeshi diaspora's letters to the Italian leadership underscore a plea for international attention to the deteriorating human rights situation in Bangladesh. They urged the international community not to allow narratives that praise the interim administration to go unchallenged, especially given the alleged stifling of multiparty democracy and fundamental rights.
9 Comments
Bermudez
Human rights are universal. Meloni must listen to these urgent pleas.
Africa
While the allegations of human rights abuses are deeply concerning, we must also consider the political instability that led to the interim government. Both sides have valid grievances that need careful reconciliation for true peace.
Habibi
Italy has its own issues. Why meddle in Bangladesh's internal affairs?
ZmeeLove
The diaspora should focus on building, not just complaining. Too much negativity.
Coccinella
This interim government is clearly a dictatorship. Unacceptable abuses!
paracelsus
The diaspora's plea for international attention is understandable given the serious accusations of repression. However, foreign intervention can sometimes complicate delicate internal political transitions, so a cautious diplomatic approach is often best.
eliphas
Concerns about media silencing and persecution of minorities are deeply troubling and require immediate scrutiny. Yet, the context of widespread protests against the former government suggests complex underlying issues that an interim administration might struggle to resolve quickly or peacefully.
anubis
The calls for fair elections are paramount for democracy in Bangladesh and should be supported. However, simply condemning the interim government without acknowledging the complex political landscape and the reasons for Hasina's ousting presents an incomplete picture.
Donatello
The diaspora is absolutely right to expose these atrocities. Yunus's government is a sham.