Human Rights

Article

Between Politics and Policy: Poland Province’s Refusal to Establish EU-Funded Migrant Integration Centres

This article examines Poland’s EU-funded migrant integration centres programme and the refusal of Małopolska province to participate. It highlights how political rhetoric around migration can undermine integration efforts and expose migrants to discrimination, exclusion, and rights violations. The piece argues that integration centres are essential for dignity, access to services, and social cohesion.

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Press release

Side event: Human Rights Violations in Bangladesh

At the 58th Human Rights Council Session in Geneva, the Tumuku Development and Cultural Union and the International Forum for Secular Bangladesh hosted a side event focusing on human rights violations and the rise of Islamic extremism in Bangladesh. Moderated by Kevin Lawrence, the event highlighted ongoing arbitrary arrests, violence against minorities, and severe restrictions on freedom of speech. Experts Fazal-ur Rehman Afridi and Dr. Rayhan Rashid raised concerns about religious persecution, extrajudicial killings, and significant suppression of dissent against marginalized groups such as Hindus and Christians. They discussed the militarization of state institutions and the unchecked rise of extremist groups undermining pluralism. The panel also addressed the repression of local media and the harassment of journalists, with reports of a climate of fear and intimidation. Investigative journalist Sahar Zand shared troubling accounts of violence against religious minorities. Former British MP Paul Bistrow acknowledged progress in specific areas in Bangladesh but warned of the potential loss of these gains amidst worsening human rights conditions. The panelists called for stronger international action to protect democratic principles and hold violators accountable, stressing the need for continued attention to the human rights situation in Bangladesh.

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Press release

HRFP Demands Justice for Blasphemy-Accused Farhan Masih and Others

Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) condemns widespread persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly Christians and Hindus. Violations include forced conversions and misuse of blasphemy laws, illustrated by the recent case of Farhan Masih, accused of blasphemy after a personal conflict. HRFP reports numerous abductions and forced conversions affecting both Christian and Hindu women. The president of HRFP, Naveed Walter, highlights the physical violence, social exclusion, and barriers to justice faced by minorities, exacerbated by institutional discrimination. Despite constitutional protections, violations of religious freedom persist, keeping minorities marginalized and at risk. HRFP operates the REAT Helpline, providing support for human rights violations, receiving significant calls regarding religious issues annually.

Press release

Fourth Edition of the GHRD Film Festival: Children’s Rights

The GHRD hosted its fourth human rights film festival on November 21, 2024, in The Hague, focusing on children’s rights and attracting over 160 attendees, including ambassadors and advocates. The festival featured impactful documentaries, such as “Butterfly Butterfly,” highlighting the struggles of child refugees; “Worth of a Girl,” addressing forced marriages; and “Children of War,” which explored the effects of conflict on children. Other films included “Hunger Ward,” depicting the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, and “International Adoptions: A Global Scandal,” investigating unethical adoption practices. A panel discussion followed, featuring experts discussing children’s rights, the risks children face online, and the importance of advocacy. The event concluded with a poignant testimony from GHRD’s Youth Ambassador, Putheany Kim, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable children and amplify their voices.

Press release

Breaking the Bias: Symposium Explores Western Media’s Impact on Human Rights in Bangladesh

On September 27, 2024, a symposium titled “Breaking the Bias: Western Media & Human Rights in Bangladesh” was held at Nieuwspoort in The Hague, focusing on the relationship between media representation and human rights, particularly concerning the 1971 genocide in Bangladesh. The event attracted 73 participants including students, professionals, and media workers, and was livestreamed by GHRTV to reach a wider audience. Key components included a keynote speech, a presentation of a report by the Involve team, and a panel discussion featuring experts such as Dr. Anthonie Holslag and Tanbira Hossain. Discussions explored the scientific consensus on the genocide, the influence of historical contexts on media portrayals, and the role of the diaspora in shaping public perceptions. The symposium aimed to deepen the understanding of media bias and its implications for human rights and policy.

6th GHRD International Film Festival: Human Trafficking Edition
Submission Deadline: 9th August 2026