An important international discussion meeting on peace, security, human rights, and the regional political situation of South Asia was held in Brussels, the heart of the European Union. This international dialogue was organized on the initiative of "Hand in Hand Foundation ASBL" and with the cooperation of European Parliament Member Ondřej Dostál. Policymakers and researchers expressed their views at the event regarding the political future, human rights protection, democratic values, and social harmony of Bangladesh and various other South Asian countries.

Participation of Dignitaries at the Brussels Conference

There was an active presence of human rights activists, researchers, civil society representatives, and members of the South Asian diaspora from various European countries. The keynote addresses at the event were presented by former Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dr. Hasan Mahmud, former German Ambassador Peter Fahrenholtz, scientist and author Dr. Nuran Nabi, Secretary General of Hand in Hand Foundation ASBL AFM Golam Zilani, and Abdur Rahman Green, a representative of an international human rights organization from Geneva. Additionally, diaspora representatives actively participated in the dialogue from various parts of Europe, including Sattar Shah Alam Sumon, Ali Khatun, Fatema Hossain, and Shah Alam Maya from France; Lena Akhter from Germany; and Mehedi Hasan and Tawhid Fitrat from the United Kingdom.

The Equation of Political Stability and Economic Progress

Scientist and author Dr. Nuran Nabi emphasized the deep interrelationship between political stability and economic investment in his speech. He stated that prolonged political instability and uncertainty cast a negative impact on the confidence of foreign investors, thereby blocking the path to attracting new investments. Drawing upon the context of Bangladesh, he noted that the country—once discussed internationally as a marvel of development—has faced an investment crisis due to political uncertainty. At this time, he made a strong demand to create opportunities for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to return to the country and to lift the restrictions imposed on the Awami League to resolve the nation's political crisis.

The 1971 Genocide and the Current Human Rights Situation

Former Ambassador Peter Fahrenholtz recalled the historical context of Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War and the genocide of that period in his speech. Expressing concern over current developments in Bangladesh, he said that human rights and security conditions in the country are deteriorating. Highlighting the need for international community oversight, he expressed deep concern over the present situation.

On the other hand, Abdur Rahman Green, Secretary General of the International Coalition for Human Rights who arrived from Geneva, stated that immediate and effective steps according to international standards are necessary to end the current unstable situation in Bangladesh and improve human rights conditions.

Call for Development Achievements and Inclusive Dialogue

Former Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud highlighted the various development activities, economic progress, and recognitions achieved by Bangladesh on the international stage during the tenure of the previous government. He stated that maintaining democratic continuity is essential to ensure the continuation of the country's overall progress and to preserve the successes achieved.

AFM Golam Zilani, Secretary General of Hand in Hand Foundation ASBL, emphasized the need for a responsible and inclusive international dialogue to transform the complex political and social realities of South Asia. He stated that constructive discussions among people of diverse opinions and political stances can pave the way for a peaceful and sustainable solution.

Message of Regional Peace and Cooperation

The core theme of the day-long discussion meeting was strengthening peace, stability, human rights protection, and regional cooperation in the countries of South Asia. Participants agreed that safeguarding the fundamental rights and democratic values of the people in this region is possible only through political dialogue and mutual cooperation.

At the end of the conference, the organizing body Hand in Hand Foundation ASBL announced that their activities and dialogues at the international level regarding human rights, peace, democratic dialogue, social inclusion, and sustainable development will continue in the future.

Author: Niharika Roy, Development Worker, Political Analyst, and Columnist