Release Shahriar Kabir immediately

European and global civil society organisations have issued an urgent appeal to the prime minister of Bangladesh, calling for the immediate release of 75-year-old journalist, writer, freedom fighter, and human rights activist Shahriar Kabir.

The organisations also requested that his immediate release and access to proper medical care be ensured, as reports indicate that his health has severely deteriorated while in custody.

In a joint statement, a coalition of international organisations -- including the South Asia Democratic Forum in Belgium, European Bangladesh Forum (EU and United Kingdom), Working Group Bangladesh in Germany, Earth Civilisation Network, and Freedom and Justice Alliance -- said that Kabir’s health condition has reached a critical stage.

The joint appeal was led by Paulo Casaca, executive director of the South Asia Democratic Forum; Chris Blackburn of the European Bangladesh Forum; Klaus Strempel; Tariq Gunersel; and Prof ABM Nasir.

They urged the government to act swiftly to protect Kabir’s life and uphold international human rights standards.

A wheelchair user who suffers from several chronic illnesses, Shahriar Kabir has experienced a rapid health decline since his arrest, the statement said, adding that his weight has dropped significantly, and he now finds it difficult to stand.

Despite repeated requests, he has reportedly not received the necessary medication and appropriate treatment, the statement read.

Even after being transferred to Dhaka Central Jail, his medical situation has not improved, it said, adding that these humanitarian concerns have raised deep alarm amongst international human rights organisations.

The Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention and Human Security stated on January 5, 2026, that Kabir’s detention represents a serious violation of Bangladesh’s international legal obligations.

Earlier, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention declared in its Opinion No. 40/2025 that Kabir’s detention was arbitrary, unlawful, and punitive. The group called for his immediate release, compensation, and an independent investigation. These recommendations were not implemented by the previous government, the statement said.

The coalition called on the Government of Bangladesh to take three urgent actions: immediately release Shahriar Kabir and all elderly or vulnerable prisoners, ensure urgent and proper medical care for detainees, and ensure that all prisons in the country follow international human rights and humanitarian standards.  “His [Shahriar Kabir] protection and release would reaffirm Bangladesh’s commitment to the spirit of 1971 and the rule of law,” the organisations said.