UN assures support to Bangladesh to counter disinformation ahead of election

The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has assured Bangladesh of full support in preventing disinformation and fake news surrounding the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

The matter was discussed during a phone call between UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk and Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday, January 14, according to a message issued by the Chief Adviser’s press wing.

During the conversation, Dr Yunus said fake news and propaganda were spreading in both local and international media in connection with the election. He noted that misinformation and rumours were rapidly spreading on social media, which could negatively affect the election environment and credibility, causing concern for the government.

In response, Volker Türk said the United Nations was aware of the growing challenge of disinformation and stood ready to provide all necessary assistance to Bangladesh in countering such propaganda. He said, “We will do whatever is needed.”

The discussion also covered the upcoming referendum, the importance of institutional reforms, the activities of the commission investigating enforced disappearances, the formation of the National Human Rights Commission, and global geopolitical issues. Volker Türk emphasised the importance of establishing an independent and effective National Human Rights Commission to advance investigations into enforced disappearances.

In reply, the Chief Adviser said the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance had already been issued and that the new commission would be reconstituted before the election. He added that the process would be completed before stepping down.

Praising various initiatives taken by the Chief Adviser over the past year and a half, Volker Türk said his office had supported the work of the enforced disappearances investigation commission and would continue this cooperation in the future.