Bangladesh on the Brink
Pre-Election Violence & The Collapse of Human Rights Protections
Based on data by Minhaz Samad Chowdhury | Independent Human Rights Defender
Source: Human Rights Support Society (HRSS)
Executive Summary
As Bangladesh approaches its 13th National Parliamentary Election, the nation is witnessing a troubling surge in political violence, election-related intimidation, and systematic human rights violations. Data reveals a pattern of unchecked aggression that raises serious concerns about the possibility of a free, fair, and peaceful election. The period between September 2024 and January 2026 has been marked by one of the most turbulent human rights crises in recent history.
The Scale of Violence (17 Months)
State Failure: The Rise of Mob Justice
While political violence causes mass injuries, Mob Violence has become lethally efficient. In a disturbing trend, mob lynchings have resulted in more deaths (259) than organized political clashes (195), highlighting a collapse in state protection and rule of law.
The Electoral Context
Violence is not random; it is deeply embedded in the electoral process. Out of 1,411 total incidents, a significant portion is directly linked to election activities, with factional conflicts intensifying as the polls draw near.
Pre-Election Surge (Dec 2025 – Jan 2026)
In just a two-month window immediately preceding the election, violence spiked. HRSS documented 162 election-linked incidents involving assaults on candidates, arson, and voter suppression. The human toll in this short period was devastating.
documented Tactics:
The Press Under Fire
Journalists are essential for democratic transparency but are facing escalating risks. Attacks on newsrooms and reporters are a direct assault on freedom of expression (ICCPR Article 19).
Violence Against Women
Women participating in the electoral process face targeted harassment. Despite lower numbers of female candidates, the intensity of violence against them is significant, aiming to suppress their political voice.
The Way Forward: Immediate Recommendations
Independent Investigations
Credible probes into all election-related violence are non-negotiable.
Neutral Security
Visible, non-partisan law enforcement deployment during campaigns.
Intl. Observation
Expanded mandates for international election observers.
"History will remember not only how Bangladesh voted—but whether its people were allowed to vote without fear."
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