Reclaiming human rights as everyday essentials

Human rights are "everyday essentials" for a functioning society -- the pillars of security, justice, and expression that people rely upon daily. However, recent data serve as a reminder that these essentials are being eroded in Bangladesh, and highlight persistent vulnerabilities that continue to challenge the rule of law and public safety. The most critical essential -- the right to security -- remains fragile. Sustained political instability has resulted in about 200 deaths and thousands of injuries between January and November, driven largely by internal factionalism and targeted attacks on activists, according to data compiled by rights organisation Ain O Salish Kendra. This violence is further compounded by 29 extrajudicial killings and deaths in custody this year -- a recurring disruption to the fundamental guarantee of safety that every citizen requires. Equally concerning is the rise of vigilante violence, with 184 lives lost to mob beatings in the January-November period. This climate of impunity has also impacted religious minorities. Furthermore, the right to expression -- essential for accountability -- remains under pressure. Journalists, often the guardians of these everyday rights, have faced physical assault and legal harassment.