EU worried at state of human rights
The European Union has expressed concern about the human rights situation in Bangladesh and called for bringing the perpetrators to book through proper investigation into each of the allegations of such violation.
"We take a serious view of the violation of human rights and we want thorough investigation into each of the violations and bring perpetrators to justice," said Ugo Astuto, director, South and South-East Asia of European External Action Service.
Talking to The Daily Star and two other dailies at the residence of EU Ambassador William Hanna in Gulshan on Monday evening, he said he had raised the issue during his talks with government officials, political leaders, including BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, and civil society members of Bangladesh.
On the political situation in Bangladesh, Astuto said the EU prescribes political moderation and national unity for overcoming prevailing impasse.
"We advocate dialogue. We do urge major players to come together to find a common solution, which is the only recipe to end the stalemate," said the EU official, who left Dhaka on Monday night.
Asked about the acceptability of the January 5 elections, the EU official referred to the January 9 statement of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, who called on all parties to refrain from violence and to engage in a "genuine dialogue to agree on a mutually acceptable way forward to strengthen democratic accountability and to hold transparent, inclusive and credible elections, putting the interests of the people of Bangladesh first".
About developments in the garment sector after the Rana Plaza disaster, Astuto said a lot of progress has been achieved but much more needs to be done in implementing the Compact Agreement to ensure safety standards and rights of workers. He said the EU would continue to work with the government to enhance trade and investment in Bangladesh.
The head of the EU delegation to Bangladesh, William Hanna, was present during the interview.
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