Extrajudicial killings in Bangladesh have been a significant human rights concern over the years, particularly from 2010 to 2023. These killings, often involving security forces such as the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other law enforcement agencies, have drawn national and international criticism. Here’s an overview of the issue during this period:

Extrajudicial Killings in Bangladesh (2010–2023)

Background

Extrajudicial killings in Bangladesh typically involve law enforcement agencies conducting so-called “crossfire” incidents, “gunfights,” or “encounters.” While these killings are often officially described as shootouts with criminals, human rights organizations argue that many are unlawful killings without due process.

Trends and Key Incidents

1. 2010–2015:
   • Increase in Crossfire Incidents: This period saw a significant number of deaths reported as crossfire incidents involving the RAB and police. Many of these incidents were connected to alleged criminals, political opponents, or individuals accused of terrorism.
   • Political Repression: During times of political unrest, including elections and protests, there were numerous reports of extrajudicial killings targeting opposition members and activists, especially from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami.
2. 2016–2018:
   • Anti-Drug Campaign: In 2018, the government launched an aggressive anti-drug campaign, resulting in a surge of reported extrajudicial killings. Law enforcement agencies claimed many of these deaths occurred during encounters with drug dealers, but human rights groups argued that many victims were targeted without fair trials or any evidence of involvement in drug activities.
   • International Criticism: The anti-drug campaign and the associated killings drew widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, who accused the government of bypassing the judicial process.
3. 2019–2021:
   • Continued Repression of Dissent: Reports of extrajudicial killings persisted, with security forces accused of targeting political activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens under the guise of maintaining law and order.
   • Digital Security Act: The controversial Digital Security Act also played a role in suppressing dissent, with several activists and critics being detained, harassed, or killed in police custody or through extrajudicial means.
4. 2022–2023:
   • International Sanctions on RAB: In 2021, the United States imposed sanctions on the RAB and several of its officials over human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings. This was a significant international response, highlighting concerns about the ongoing use of extrajudicial measures by law enforcement.
   • Government’s Denial and Reforms: Despite repeated denials of wrongdoing by the Bangladeshi government, there were pledges for reforms and investigations into specific incidents. However, human rights organizations remained skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures.

Impact and Consequences

• Erosion of Rule of Law: Extrajudicial killings have undermined the rule of law in Bangladesh, creating a culture of impunity among security forces. They have contributed to a lack of public trust in the justice system and government institutions.
• Human Rights Violations: These acts represent serious human rights violations, contradicting Bangladesh’s commitments under international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
• Social and Political Tensions: The targeting of political opponents and activists has heightened political tensions and contributed to a repressive environment, discouraging free speech and political participation.
• International Relations: Bangladesh’s reputation on the global stage has been affected, with extrajudicial killings being a focal point in discussions about human rights and governance in the country.

Efforts to Address Extrajudicial Killings

• Legal Reforms and Accountability: There have been calls from both national and international bodies for the Bangladeshi government to improve accountability, conduct thorough investigations, and prosecute those responsible for extrajudicial killings.
• Civil Society and Advocacy: Human rights groups within Bangladesh continue to document cases and advocate for justice, despite facing challenges such as harassment and restrictions.
• International Pressure: Ongoing international pressure, including sanctions and diplomatic efforts, aims to encourage the Bangladeshi government to adhere to human rights standards and curtail the use of extrajudicial killings.

Addressing extrajudicial killings in Bangladesh remains a critical challenge, requiring sustained efforts to strengthen the rule of law, ensure accountability, and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.