Is the UN Chief Worried About Journalists' Safety Before Bangladesh Elections?
Synopsis
As Bangladesh prepares for its parliamentary elections, concerns are mounting over the safety of journalists. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced apprehensions regarding reported assaults on media personnel by military and police forces. This situation raises significant questions about freedom of expression and the integrity of the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
UN Secretary-General expresses concern over journalists' safety.
Reports of military and police violence against media.
Importance of a peaceful electoral atmosphere.
UN's role limited without a mandate for observer deployment.
Public outcry highlights challenges for independent journalism.
United Nations, Feb 10 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his unease over reports of assaults on journalists by the military and police in the lead-up to Thursday’s parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, as per his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
"It is crucial for us that the elections in Bangladesh occur in a peaceful environment, characterized by inclusivity, and in accordance with Bangladesh's constitution and international commitments,” Dujarric stated on Monday.
During a briefing, he addressed inquiries regarding reports of the Army detaining and subsequently releasing 21 employees from The Bangladesh Times, along with police aggression towards a dozen journalists.
Dujarric remarked that these reports are “extremely concerning,” urging all political entities and their backers to renounce violence and uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
In a prior briefing, Dujarric mentioned that the UN would not deploy observers for the election in the absence of a mandate from the Security Council or the General Assembly but noted that the organization’s office in Bangladesh has been collaborating with the government to provide technical assistance and ensure maximum participation for a successful election.
The Daily Star reported that according to Sabbir Ahmed, Mobile Journalism Editor-in-Chief of The Bangladesh Times, Army personnel entered their office and apprehended 21 employees, including journalists and support staff.
They were released later.
Before this incident, an officer identified as Major Fahad claimed that the journalists were taken to an Army camp for a discussion about a “minor issue.”
Ahmed stated that he had previously received a WhatsApp call from someone claiming to be an Army member, who found a video published by The Bangladesh Times “problematic.”
This video featured a person criticizing the Army during a protest by Inqilab Moncho in Dhaka on Friday.
Ahmed expressed on Facebook, “We are going through the most critical period for independent journalism under this interim government. The targeting of a media office like this is unexpected.”
Centrist TV Outlet shared a video allegedly showing police assaulting journalists covering the Inquilab Moncho protest, which police dispersed using batons and tear gas.
Reports indicate that over 50 individuals were injured during the police's actions.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in Bangladesh symbolizes a significant challenge to press freedom and democratic principles. It is vital for the nation to prioritize the safety of journalists and uphold their rights during this critical electoral period, ensuring a fair and transparent election process.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the UN concerned about Bangladesh elections?
The UN is worried due to reports of violence against journalists by military and police, which could threaten free and fair elections.
What incidents have been reported concerning journalists?
There have been reports of the Army detaining journalists and police assaulting media personnel during protests.
What has the UN stated about election observation?
The UN has declared it will not send observers without a Security Council or General Assembly mandate but is providing technical support.
