The publication of Human Rights Watch's World Report 2025 shines a stark light on Bangladesh's human rights landscape. The report outlines the interim government's pledges for accountability and credible elections, while underscoring the need for sweeping reforms to ensure lasting progress. With the international community closely watching, Bangladesh finds itself at a critical juncture in its democratic journey.

The interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, has taken steps that signal a break from the authoritarian practices of the previous administration. Notable among these is the establishment of a commission to investigate enforced disappearances and the decision to accede to the UN Convention on Enforced Disappearances. These measures indicate a willingness to address the systemic abuses that marred the country's past.

However, promises alone are insufficient.

Human Rights Watch, in its report (published in this newspaper on January 17), rightly highlights the challenges ahead, particularly the persistent abuses by security forces, arbitrary arrests of opposition supporters, and the absence of meaningful civilian oversight.

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Bangladesh needs lasting reforms to stop abuses: HRW

These issues remain an albatross around Bangladesh's neck. Without dismantling repressive apparatuses like the Rapid Action Battalion and reforming the security forces to ensure accountability, the nation's progress will remain superficial.

Reforms must go beyond short-term fixes. Building resilient institutions aligned with international human rights standards is essential for a sustainable democratic transition. Transparency and inclusive governance should be the cornerstones of this transformation.

Bangladesh's history of student protests and public resistance demonstrates the resilience of its people. However, the violence during the crackdowns in 2024 serves as a sombre reminder of the cost of unchecked power. The interim government must seize this opportunity to redefine governance in Bangladesh, ensuring that past abuses are not repeated.

Hasan Meer is a journalist at The Daily Star