Bangladesh Army Responds to UN Rights Chief Volker Türk’s Remarks

The Bangladesh Army has responded to recent remarks by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, made during an interview with BBC HARDtalk.

In a statement issued today by the Inter Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR), the army said any concerns the UN rights body had were conveyed to the previous government, not the military leadership.

“Please note that the Bangladesh Army did not receive any direct communication or intent from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding the matter stated by Mr Türk. If any such concerns were raised, they were conveyed to the erstwhile Government of Bangladesh and not directly to the Army leadership,” the statement read.

The military further asserted that Türk’s remarks had been taken out of context by certain quarters, misrepresenting its role and potentially harming its reputation. The army emphasized its strict adherence to national security directives, the rule of law, and human rights principles.

Reaffirming its long-standing commitment to neutrality, the statement referenced key historical events, including the democratic transition of 1991, as well as the July-August 2024 protests, during which the army maintained public safety without bias or external influence.

Highlighting its global reputation, the army noted that it is the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, recognized worldwide for its professionalism.

The statement also pointed out that while peacekeepers receive a small share of foreign earnings, their contributions have significantly bolstered the national economy, with approximately Tk 27,000 crore generated over the past 23 years.

The Bangladesh Army reiterated its strong ties with the UN human rights body, urging that any concerns about its role be addressed through open dialogue and constructive engagement.