Staff Reporter :
The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla M’jid, has urged the interim government to use the current transitional period as an opportunity to address gaps in child protection laws and practices.
M’jid highlighted the need to shield children from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and arbitrary detention.
In a statement on Friday, M’jid emphasised that children and youth have been at the forefront of recent protests in Bangladesh, achieving significant results but at a steep cost.
Youth and children in Bangladesh have led recent protests.
They have achieved a lot, but they have also paid a huge price,” M’jid remarked.
According to the latest verified figures from UNICEF, over 65 children have lost their lives in the government’s crackdown on peaceful demonstrations.
“I add my voice to those of the UN Secretary-General and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, underscoring the need for a full, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence.
In particular, I would like to stress the importance of ensuring adequate safeguarding mechanisms for children and young people who have been victims of violence, arbitrary arrests, and detention,” Maalla M’jid added.
The UN Special Representative encouraged the interim authorities to expand and strengthen institutions and social programs so that they are easily accessible to all children.
Maala M’jid also recalled the critical importance of a child-friendly justice system, including independent courts for minors, even more so considering the high number of children and youth that were detained during the recent protests.
“I welcome that the release of children has begun and call for the swift release of all children,” she said.
“It is critical that all charges against them are lifted, especially under the cybercrime and anti-terrorist legislation, and that there are guarantees of no further prosecution.”
The UN representative further said that it is essential that these children and their families receive appropriate support, including legal assistance, psychosocial care, and reintegration services, to safeguard their well-being and future.