Half Yearly Report
20 July 2026
Human Rights Situation Report of Bangladesh (January-June 2026)
The report evaluates the primary trends, challenges, and concerns regarding human rights violations during a critical period of political and constitutional transition in Bangladesh. Compiled from 16 national daily newspapers, HRSS’s internal data collection, and field monitoring, the document details a sharp increase in multiple areas of violence despite a transition toward democratic processes.
Key areas covered in the report include:
- Political & Election Violence: Explores internal conflicts and cross-party clashes (mainly involving BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and Awami League), noting 830 incidents that led to 5,246 injuries and 56 deaths.
- Freedom of Expression & Media Safety: Highlights increased constraints, detailing 200 cases of harassment/torture against 383 journalists, alongside the rigid enforcement of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025.
- Mob Justice: Documents a substantial rise in mob beatings, tracking 261 incidents resulting in 133 fatalities.
- Repression of Women, Children, & Minorities: Reports an alarming 56% increase in violence against women and children, listing specific cases of rape and structural abuse, alongside attacks on 50 minority religious sites and properties.
- Border Violations & Institutional Deaths: Tracks deaths and torture at the India-Bangladesh border (by BSF) and the Myanmar border, along with 58 deaths recorded under prison custody.
The document concludes with a strategic list of recommendations urging state authorities to implement institutional reforms, strengthen accountability frameworks, and protect fundamental citizens' rights.