Why Are Bangladeshi Expatriates Protesting in the Netherlands?
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Synopsis
In a powerful show of unity, Bangladeshi expatriates from Europe formed a human chain in The Hague, demanding justice and accountability for human rights abuses under the Yunus-led interim government. This protest, featuring prominent Awami League leaders and a virtual address from Sheikh Hasina, shines a light on the ongoing struggles back home.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladeshi expatriates unite to protest human rights abuses.
- Awami League leaders emphasize the need for justice.
- Formal complaints submitted to the **International Court of Justice**.
- Protestors demand accountability for **Muhammad Yunus**.
- Concerns raised over political oppression and violence in Bangladesh.
The Hague, Nov 14 (NationPress) Hundreds of Bangladeshi expatriates from various parts of Europe assembled to form a human chain outside the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. They were protesting against human rights violations occurring in Bangladesh under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus and his interim government, as stated by the Awami League on Friday.
The demonstration, organized by the Netherlands chapter of the Awami League, was spearheaded by President Mostofa Zaman and General Secretary Murad Khan, with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressing the audience virtually as the Chief Guest.
According to the Awami League, the protesters later lodged a formal complaint with the President of the International Court of Justice, outlining serious allegations of human rights abuses in Bangladesh, including arbitrary detentions and torture of minorities and Awami League members, as well as systematic persecution and false accusations against Hasina and her supporters.
The complaint claimed that Yunus and his associates had “illegally seized power,” persecuted political opponents, and collaborated with anti-liberation and extremist factions to destabilize the nation—burning Bangabandhu’s historic residence at 32 Dhanmondi, attacking state institutions, and banning the Awami League and its student organization, Chhatra League.
Numerous Awami League leaders from across Europe—including Hasan Mahmud, M. Nazrul Islam, Mojibur Rahman, M.A. Kasem, Dilwar Hossain Koiech, Shahidul Haq, and others—participated in the rally, urging an end to tyranny, oppression, and injustice in Bangladesh.
“We demand justice for Sheikh Hasina and for every Bangladeshi whose rights have been violated. The international community must not remain silent. Yunus must be held accountable,” stated the protestors, as reported by the Awami League.
Earlier on Thursday, the Awami League encouraged its leaders, activists, and supporters to stay alert against what they termed as “conspiracies” from the Yunus-led interim government and its allies regarding the “Dhaka Lockdown” initiative.
This program was announced by the Awami League on Thursday, focusing on the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal's impending verdict in a case against Hasina, which is anticipated to be delivered on November 17.
Criticizing the Yunus-led interim government, the party asserted that the “illegal, usurping, fascist regime of Yunus and his allies” has unjustly deprived the Awami League of its democratic rights and violated the human rights of its members while ridiculing justice through “false and harassing” cases.
According to reports from several news outlets, the party claimed that “acts of violence and terrorism” are occurring with the tacit approval of the Yunus administration throughout the country.
Point of View
I find the recent protest by Bangladeshi expatriates in The Hague significant. It underscores the ongoing struggle for human rights in Bangladesh and highlights the global diaspora's commitment to seeking justice and accountability. The Awami League's call for action reflects a broader concern for the state of democracy and human rights in our country. The international community must heed these voices, ensuring that the plight of the Bangladeshi people does not go unnoticed.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the human chain formed by Bangladeshi expatriates?
The human chain was organized to protest against human rights violations occurring in Bangladesh under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.
Who led the protest in The Hague?
The protest was led by President Mostofa Zaman and General Secretary Murad Khan of the Netherlands branch of the Awami League.
What allegations were included in the complaint submitted to the ICJ?
The complaint detailed serious allegations of arbitrary arrests, torture of minorities, and systematic persecution against Awami League members.
What did Sheikh Hasina say during the protest?
Sheikh Hasina addressed the gathering virtually as the Chief Guest, supporting the call for justice and accountability.
What is the significance of the Dhaka Lockdown program mentioned?
The Dhaka Lockdown program is a response to perceived conspiracies by the Yunus-led interim government, centered around an upcoming verdict from the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal.
