Bangladesh Solidarity Statement

This statement is in collaboration with the Bangladeshi Cultural Community (BCC) and the International Students’ Resource Centre (ISC).

We, the Bangladeshi Cultural Community at Memorial University of Newfoundland (BCC-MUN), the Memorial University of Newfoundland Students' Union (MUNSU), and the International Students' Resource Centre at Memorial University of Newfoundland (ISC-MUN), strongly condemn the Bangladeshi government for its gross failure to protect the safety and fundamental rights of student protesters in Bangladesh. The violent repression of peaceful demonstrations for the quota reform movement by the students at Bangladeshi universities, which has tragically resulted in numerous injuries and deaths, is a blatant violation of human rights and democratic principles.

The current violence in Bangladesh has both immobilized and energized the nation. Countless youthful demonstrators, many under the age of 18, confront the threat of a gun held by an authoritarian regime. Militarized riot officers propel armoured vehicles into throngs of Bangladeshis yearning for freedom and prepared to sacrifice for it. In 2024, Bangladesh is poised to defend its rights, its freedom, and its essence.

This uprising, initially sparked by the demand for reform of the civil service quota system, has evolved into a broader struggle against systemic injustices and authoritarian rule. We stand with the brave students and citizens of Bangladesh who are fighting for a fair and just society.

We are particularly concerned for the safety and well-being of the families of Bangladeshi students and community members at Memorial University. The government's brutal crackdown, characterized by using live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and violent attacks by the ruling party's armed groups, poses a direct threat to their lives and security. The communication blackout imposed by the government has further isolated students and community members from their loved ones, exacerbating their distress and anxiety.

We call on the international community, human rights organizations, and all individuals who value democracy and justice to join us in condemning the actions of the Bangladeshi government. We urge immediate and decisive action to protect the lives and rights of the protesters and to hold the perpetrators of these atrocities accountable.

Furthermore, we demand that the Bangladeshi government:

1. Immediately cease all violent actions against peaceful protesters.

2. Lift the communication blackout to restore the flow of information and allow families to reconnect.

3. Ensure the safety and security of all citizens, particularly students, and uphold their fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and free expression.

4. Initiate transparent and accountable reforms to address the legitimate grievances of the protesters and to end the abuse of the quota system for political and personal gain.

We also call on Memorial University to create tangible supports for Bangladeshi students and accommodate their needs during this difficult time.

The struggle of the Bangladeshi people for justice and democracy is a testament to their resilience and courage. We stand in solidarity with them and reaffirm our commitment to supporting their fight for a better future.