SMM IHRC Bangladesh Celebrates International Human Rights Day 2024

On December 10, 2024, the International Human Rights Commission -IHRC in Bangladesh commemorated the 76th International Human Rights Day under the global theme, Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All. The event, held at the Chittagong Press Club, featured a procession and an activist assembly to raise awareness about human rights and promote equality and justice.

The programme commenced at 10 a.m. with a procession, followed by an assembly attended by human rights activists, distinguished guests, and members of the press. The inauguration was led by Prof. Dr. Abdul Jalil from the International Islamic University, setting a scholarly tone for the day’s discussions.

The event was chaired by Peace Ambassador and National Coordinator Lion Muhammed Elias Sirazi, who highlighted the importance of collective efforts to safeguard human rights. The program was coordinated by prominent human rights leaders Mr. Sayed Mustafa Alam and Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Samrat, ensuring its smooth execution. Prominent figures from Chittagong’s civic and media circles also played key roles. Mr. Zahedul Islam Kochi, Member Secretary of the Chittagong Press Club and CDA board member, attended as the chief guest. Mr. Md. Shahnewaz, President of the Chittagong Metropolitan Journalist Union, delivered a compelling keynote speech. The opening remarks were made by Dr. Mohammed Sajjad Hossain, setting the stage for insightful discussions.

Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of International Human Rights Day, celebrated worldwide to remind nations of their obligations to uphold and protect human rights. They highlighted how global powers and influential individuals often violate human rights for self-serving purposes, making the role of organisations like IHRC increasingly vital.

As a Switzerland-based transnational intergovernmental organisation, the IHRC’s work spans six continents, promoting a culture of peace and addressing human rights violations wherever they occur. Speakers commended IHRC’s achievements in fostering human rights, noting that its activists are unwavering in their commitment to building resistance against oppression and injustice globally.

In their addresses, the speakers stressed the importance of maintaining a humanitarian agenda in human rights organisations, free from racism, communalism, or political bias. They also expressed gratitude to the Bangladesh government for its role as Vice President of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, underscoring Bangladesh’s leadership in multilateral diplomacy and its growing influence on the international stage.

The event concluded with a collective call to action, urging everyone to work towards establishing democracy, the rule of law, freedom of speech, and public safety in Bangladesh. Speakers also emphasised the need for rights awareness to build a society free from discrimination.

The assembly was graced by a diverse group of notable attendees, including Professor Rajeev Nandi from Chittagong University, Ms. Roksana Khanam Mithua, Women Leader and Human Rights Organiser, Mr. Muhammad Amir Hossain Khan, Human Rights Leader, Mr. Muhammad Golam Mawla Murad, Chittagong Press Club Member, Principal Shyamal Majumder, Mr. Mejbah Uddin, Zonal Coordinator, Ms. Tahera Akhtar Sharmin, Women Leader, journalists Mr. S.M. Kamrul Islam and Mr. Moinuddin Ahmed, Mr. Mubarak Ahmad, Banker, advocates Mr. Abu Bakkar Talukder and Ms. Ayesha Akhtar Shanji, Mr. Chaudhary Md. Abdul Wahab, Mr. Abu Ahmed Mia, and Mr. Raihan Sabuj.

The robust presence of activists and leaders further demonstrated the community’s commitment to advancing human rights in Bangladesh. The event concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold dignity, freedom, and justice for all, reflecting IHRC’s mission to promote peace and equality worldwide.

Reported:
Dr. Mohammed Sajjad Hossain
SMM IHRC Bangladesh