United States
The United States has called for calm in Bangladesh after long-ruling leader Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amidst violent anti-government protests. Nearly 100 people were killed on Sunday before she left. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller urged all sides to “refrain from further violence” and noted that the US had seen reports of the army resisting pressure to crack down on protests. Miller emphasized the need for any transition to follow Bangladesh’s laws and for the future government to be decided by the Bangladeshi people.
We have seen the announcement that Prime Minister Hasina resigned from her position and departed Bangladesh. We are monitoring the situation carefully and the United States urges all parties to refrain from further violence. We urge calm and restraint in the days ahead. pic.twitter.com/lDsFotAO34
— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) August 5, 2024
United Nations
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a “peaceful, orderly, and democratic transition” in Bangladesh. His spokesman, Farhan Haq, stressed the importance of a “full, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence.” Guterres expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and underscored the need to respect their human rights.
.@antonioguterres deplores the further loss of life during protests in #Bangladesh over the weekend.
He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition.
Full statement: https://t.co/sNqpSO7vZx
— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) August 5, 2024
European Union
The European Union has echoed calls for “calm and restraint.” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the need for an “orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government” that respects human rights and democratic principles. Borrell also noted assurances from General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation would be handled peacefully and that unlawful killings would be impartially investigated.
United Kingdom
Britain, Bangladesh’s former colonial power, has called for the United Nations to lead an investigation into recent events. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the people of Bangladesh deserve a “full and independent UN-led investigation” into the violence of the past few weeks.
The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government.
My statement on the ongoing situation ⬇️https://t.co/g0n4dfwHE9
— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 5, 2024
Canada
Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly condemned the “human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests, and lethal force” used in response to the protests. Joly urged all parties to respect democratic institutions, processes, and the rule of law during the transition.
My statement following resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister: pic.twitter.com/fYpWjjEQAM
— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) August 6, 2024
World Bank
The World Bank is assessing the impact of recent events in Bangladesh on its loan program. A spokesperson expressed sorrow over the violence and loss of life, and emphasized the Bank’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development aspirations while hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Bangladesh. Sabry highlighted the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi nation, wishing for the people to overcome their challenges and emerge stronger.
Our hearts are with the people of #Bangladesh during these incredibly challenging times. The recent events have led to significant unrest and, tragically, the loss of many lives. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those affected and to all who are suffering…
— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) August 5, 2024
Russia
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed hope for a speedy return of political processes in Bangladesh to constitutional norms, highlighting the country’s friendly relations with Bangladesh.
Germany
A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry stressed the importance of Bangladesh continuing on its democratic path amid the ongoing crisis.
The international community remains attentive to the developments in Bangladesh, urging for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the political turmoil.
