The podcast will be released on 08.12.24, 4PM Brussels time
Follow the event on Facebook, Youtube, or Linkedin
We’re bringing together Paulo Casaca, SADF Director, Barrister Tania Amir, and Dr. Rayhan Rashid to discuss current relations between India and Bangladesh.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have become increasingly strained. The situation has deteriorated since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024. This podcast will focus on the following key points:
- Diplomatic Tensions: The vandalism of Bangladesh’s Assistant High Commission in Agartala by Hindu activists has escalated tensions. Bangladesh responded with protests and demands for increased security for its diplomatic missions in India[1].
- Extradition Demands: Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is demanding the extradition of Sheikh Hasina from India to face trial for alleged war crimes[2].
- Anti-India Sentiment: There are growing anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh, fueled by accusations that India is responsible for recent floods and delays in visa processing for Bangladeshis[2].
- Impact on Trade and Daily Life: Trade between the two countries has been affected, with threats of embargoes and disruptions in business activities. Additionally, Indian hospitals are reportedly turning away Bangladeshi patients[1].
- Security Concerns: India is concerned about the rise of Islamist forces in Bangladesh, which could impact its security interests[1].
The situation remains volatile, with both countries engaging in a war of words and protests continuing on both sides[3].
The Speakers:
SADF Director Paulo Casaca
Founder and executive director of the “South Asia Democratic Forum”; founder of the international co-operation association registered in Brussels ARCHumankind, ‘Alliance to Renew Co-operation among Humankind’. Member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2009 where, namely, he chaired the delegation for relations with NATO Parliamentary Assembly. He was a member of the national parliament in 1992-1993 and a member of the regional Parliament of the Azores in 1990-1991.
Barrister Tania Amir
Barrister Tania Amir is a prominent Bangladeshi lawyer and rights activist. She is known for her work in human rights, women’s empowerment, and child rights. Tania Amir has initiated many public interest litigations and worked closely with various NGOs. She received the Begum Rokeya Shining Personality Award in 2005 and the Gandhi Peace Award in 2009.
Tania Amir has been involved in significant legal battles, including a petition against the registration of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami party. She has also served as a consultant to the World Bank and other international organizations. She continues to practice law at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh and remains active in various legal and social initiatives.
Barrister Tania Amir’s contributions to the legal field and her activism make her a respected figure in Bangladesh and beyond.
Dr. Rayhan Rashid, Presenter:
Dr. Rayhan Rashid is a distinguished figure in the field of law and human rights, particularly known for his work with the International Crimes Strategy Forum (ICSF), which he founded in 2009. As a founding trustee of ICSF, Dr. Rashid has been instrumental in leading research, documentation, and advocacy projects focused on international crimes and justice. His work often involves addressing issues related to the 1971 Bangladesh genocide. Dr. Rashid is actively involved in public discourse on human rights and justice. He has participated in various international conferences and media programs, discussing topics such as genocide recognition and human rights violations. Beyond his work with ICSF, Dr. Rashid has served as an independent consultant, contributing his expertise to various organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting justice and human rights.
Dr. Rayhan Rashid’s dedication to justice and human rights has made him a respected voice in his field, both in Bangladesh and internationally.
