The Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG), a Canada‑based organisation, has formally requested the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to release the detailed list of fatalities referenced in its findings on Bangladesh’s political transition during the July–August 2024.
In a letter addressed to UN High Commissioner Volker Türk, GCDG President Md Habibe Millat conveyed that the center is undertaking a comprehensive documentation and research initiative to compile and publish a verified list of individuals who lost their lives in connection with the protests and related events.
The initiative, he said, aims to contribute to evidence‑based analysis, accountability, historical accuracy, and the promotion of democratic governance.
The organisation noted that OHCHR’s fact‑finding report on human rights violations during the protests cited as many as 1,400 reported fatalities, a figure that has since been referenced in international discussions and publications.
“Questions concerning the methodology, sources, and composition of this figure have previously been raised with your esteemed office,” the letter stated, underscoring the importance of transparency and factual accuracy.
GCDG requested OHCHR to either share with the organisation the detailed list of individuals included within the reported figure with any publicly releasable identifying information and relevant dates of death or make the complete list publicly accessible through the OHCHR website or another appropriate platform.
According to the letter, such availability would “significantly enhance the credibility, transparency, and evidentiary integrity of ongoing documentation efforts” and ensure genuine victims are properly identified and acknowledged.
Habibe Millat, who oversees the Awami League’s international affairs, emphasised that the request was made in the spirit of constructive engagement and with a shared commitment to truth, accountability, and justice.
The letter concluded with an expression of appreciation for OHCHR’s role in advancing human rights worldwide and a request for consideration of the appeal.
Earlier on 28 May, Doughty Street Chambers, legal counsel representing deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, has formally petitioned the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to issue an immediate public retraction regarding a February 2025 Fact-Finding Report.
