Judgment a ‘milestone’ for victims of serious human rights violations – OHCHR

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has reacted to the death sentence handed down to ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a case of crimes against humanity committed during the July uprising. The official response was made in a statement from Geneva on Monday (November 17), spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said.
“Yesterday in Dhaka, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal delivered their verdicts in the crimes against humanity case. This is a milestone for victims of serious human rights violations committed during the suppression of protests last year,” she said.
“Since the publication of our investigation report in February 2025, we have repeatedly demanded that all perpetrators, including those in positions of direction and leadership, be held accountable in accordance with international standards. We have demanded that victims be ensured effective remedies and compensation.”
“We did not directly observe the trial in this case, but we have consistently emphasized the need to uphold due process and international standards in any accountability process for international crimes. In this case, the trial was held in absentia and the death penalty was carried out – international standards are even more important in these circumstances,” Shamdasani said. “We also regret the death penalty, we oppose the death penalty in all circumstances.” Following the verdict, Shamdasani said, “The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed hope that Bangladesh will move forward with an integrated process of truth, reparations and justice. This should include meaningful and transformative security sector reform in line with international standards, to ensure that these violations and abuses are not repeated.” The Office of the High Commissioner stands ready to support the Government and people of Bangladesh in this effort.