Critics argue that the tribunal, revived by Hasina’s own government in 2009 to try wartime crimes, has now transformed into a tool against political adversaries.
The charges against Hasina stem from the violent clashes during student-led protests against the government, which resulted in some 775 deaths and over 22,000 injuries, many caused by gunfire from police and Awami League supporters.
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.
South Asia’s lead crisis is not inevitable. Experience elsewhere demonstrates that decisive regulation, industrial formalisation and community-level interventions can sharply reduce exposure.
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.