The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh has publicly responded to a recent US State Department report which criticized the country's human rights conditions. In a press conference held on Thursday afternoon, ministry officials expressed their displeasure with the report, published on April 22, that highlighted a lack of progress in human rights within Bangladesh. They clarified that their response would not be officially submitted to the State Department.

Ministry spokesperson Seheli Sabrin acknowledged the report but argued that no country's human rights record is perfect, often constrained by various socioeconomic factors. She asserted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, significant improvements have been made in human rights in Bangladesh, although challenges remain in some areas.

During the press conference, Sabrin highlighted the government's efforts in advancing women's empowerment, gender equality, children's rights, elder care, labor rights, and access to justice. She criticized the US report for not recognizing these developments and accused it of relying on speculative data from unnamed local and international NGOs, which she claimed were biased.

The report also mentioned BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, referring to her legal status. Sabrin claimed that Khaleda Zia is not under 'house arrest' but is serving a suspended sentence as a convicted individual.

Additionally, Sabrin addressed accusations of excessive force by law enforcement in the report, describing these as inaccurate. She said that the report did not adequately reflect the violence instigated by the BNP and its allies, which she said often disrupts public life and damages property. Despite these provocations, she noted that Bangladeshi law enforcement has demonstrated restraint and professionalism.

Sabrin expressed disappointment over the continuous allegations in the US report despite ongoing dialogues with US authorities on human rights and labor rights issues. She emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring the full enjoyment of human rights for all citizens, in partnership with international bodies including the United Nations and the United States.

Following her prepared remarks, Sabrin declined to take questions from the journalists present.