Human rights violations in Bangladesh should be investigated

Mentioning that the United Nations is aware of reports regarding the Bangladesh Rapid Action Battalion, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, has said all allegations of human rights violations should be investigated by the relevant national authorities.

The Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said, “We are aware of reports regarding the Bangladesh Rapid Action Battalion. All allegations of human rights violations should be investigated by the relevant national authorities.”

“The Secretariat is committed to deploying personnel that meet the highest standards of efficiency and integrity, including respect for and commitment to human rights and has established relevant procedures/mechanisms under its Policy on Human Rights Screening of United Nations Personnel.”

He further mentioned that, “The Policy on Human Rights Screening of United Nations Personnel places primary responsibility on Member States to ensure that the personnel they nominate for deployment have not been involved in past violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.”

In particular, all candidates for senior appointments undergo a suitability review, which includes a screening for human rights and conduct and discipline as per UN policy, the Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said.