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Congressman McCormick Urges State Department to Address Political Crisis and Violence in Bangladesh

August 9, 2024

Washington, D.C. - Congressman McCormick, a member of the Armed Services Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and other key committees, has written a letter to Secretary Blinken expressing grave concern over the recent political upheaval in the People's Republic of Bangladesh and the violence targeting protestors, members of the press, and religious minority groups.

The political crisis in Bangladesh began in June 2024 with protests demanding reform of the quota system for employment in the Bangladeshi civil service. The situation has escalated, and the violence continued on August 4, 2024, with approximately 100 people losing their lives in mass protests.

Congressman McCormick is calling on the State Department to take all available measures to support human rights, strengthen democratic institutions, and put an end to sectarian violence in Bangladesh.

“Despite the uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh's political future,” Congressman McCormick said, “I am confident that the U.S. can play a positive role in the region by working with Bangladeshi partners to achieve a peaceful democratic transition, end civil and sectarian violence, and restore stable economic and political conditions.”

The Congressman's letter highlights the importance of addressing the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh and the need for U.S. support in promoting democracy and human rights in the region.

You can read the full letter HERE.