EU Visa Policy to Protect Religious Minorities in Bangladesh

H.E. Dr. Ursula von der Leyen The Honorable President European Commission

H.E. Mr. Charles Michel The Honorable President European Council

H.E. Roberta Metsola The Honorable President European Parliament

CC:    1. Ms. Tatiana MRAZIKOVA Team Coordinator and Diplomatic Advisor, European Parliament

2. Amnesty International     3. Human Rights Watch      4. Article 19            5. Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh

 

 

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Visa Policy to Protect Religious Minorities in Bangladesh

 

Your Excellencies:

 

Allow me to extend my congratulations, on behalf of the democracy-loving people of Bangladesh and all human rights defenders worldwide, for your principled stance in protecting the human rights of every citizen and promoting institutional democracy and good governance in authoritarian countries.

 

I am writing to urgently seek your support in addressing a critical issue that requires immediate attention—the protection of the rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh. As champions of human rights and religious freedom, your leadership is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of these vulnerable communities.

 

Bangladesh, a country known for its diverse population, is home to Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and other religious minorities. However, these communities have been subjected to discrimination, violence, and persecution, eroding the fabric of Bangladesh's aspired tolerant and pluralistic society. Forced conversions, land grabs, desecration of religious places, and targeted violence have become alarmingly common occurrences, instilling a sense of insecurity and fear within these communities.

 

I commend your administration's unwavering commitment to safeguarding human rights and promoting religious freedom globally. In line with this commitment, I kindly request your support in advocating for the establishment of a Visa Policy aimed at protecting religious minorities in Bangladesh. Such a policy would send a powerful message that the European Parliament/Commission/Council stands firmly against religious persecution and would encourage the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action in safeguarding the rights of religious minorities.

 

Under the proposed Visa Policy, the European Parliament/Commission/Council could impose restrictions on issuing visas to Bangladeshi individuals believed to be responsible for or complicit in acts that undermine religious freedom. This would include those involved in inciting violence, promoting hate speech, or perpetrating acts of persecution against religious minorities. By implementing this policy, we can not only protect the vulnerable communities in Bangladesh but also demonstrate the European Parliament/Commission/Council's unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and religious freedom worldwide.

 

The announcement of this Visa Policy would not only contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and tolerant society in Bangladesh but also serve as a beacon of hope for religious minorities facing persecution globally. Your leadership in this matter will reinforce the European Parliament/Commission/Council's position as a global advocate for human rights, inspiring other nations to prioritize the protection of their religious minority communities.

 

I urge you to consider the urgency of this issue and take proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of religious minorities in Bangladesh. By working together, we can make a significant impact and bring about positive change.

 

Your leadership and proactive stance on this matter would contribute to creating a more inclusive and tolerant society, not only in Bangladesh but throughout the world. By taking a firm stand against religious persecution, we can promote a world where individuals can freely practice their faith without fear or discrimination.

 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am confident that your dedication to human rights and religious freedom will have a significant impact on the lives of religious minorities in Bangladesh and beyond.

 

Please accept our sincere wishes to you and all officials of the European Union.

 

With sincerest gratitude. Joy Bangla!

Minhaz Samad Chowdhury, Independent HR Defender, 13^th June 2023

(Focuses on State Violence against and Land Rights of Minorities in Bangladesh)

Email: rightsmanbest@gmail.com  www.hr-defender.blogspot.com

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