Resolution on the human rights situation in Bangladesh, notably Odhikar
Decision
The European Parliament adopted the motion for a resolution B9‑0381/2023 (procedure 2023/2833(RSP)), recorded in the texts adopted as P9_TA(2023)0324, with the document dated 12 September 2023.
What Changes
The resolution condemns harassment, intimidation and violations of fundamental rights against Odhikar and other human rights defenders, calls on the Bangladeshi government to cease retaliation, to ensure respect for due process and fair trial, and expresses concern about escalating repression, mass arrests and excessive use of force in the run-up to the January 2024 elections; it also reminds that Bangladesh's access to GSP preferences depends on human rights improvements and that continued serious violations could question eligibility for GSP+ and calls for forwarding the resolution to relevant bodies.
Who Is Affected
The resolution directly concerns Odhikar and human rights defenders, opposition members and protesters in Bangladesh and has implications for Bangladesh's trade preferences under the EU's EBA/GSP framework.
Sources
Official Documents
- MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the human rights situation in Bangladesh, notably the case of Odhikar EP adopted a resolution condemning Bangladesh’s human rights violations, calling for protection of defenders, due process, linking GSP status to improvements, and forwarding the resolution to EU institutions and Bangladesh.
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