Preserving Religious Freedom

A Call to Action for Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, religion isn’t just a part of life; it’s woven into the very fabric of society, shaping traditions, beliefs, and identities. But lately, there’s been a troubling shift. Under the leadership of the Awami League, religious freedom seems to be slipping away, leaving many feeling silenced and afraid.

It’s not just about one religion or group; it’s about the right of every person to practice their beliefs without fear or pressure. Whether Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, or Muslim, everyone should feel safe in their faith. But reports of forced conversions and attacks on religious sites paint a grim picture of what’s happening.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of this situation is the stifling of dissent. In a healthy society, people should feel free to speak up when they see injustice or disagree with those in power. But in Bangladesh today, speaking out can mean risking your safety or livelihood. It’s a climate of fear that’s damaging to everyone, regardless of their beliefs.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s hope in the power of unity and advocacy. By standing together and raising our voices, we can push for change. We can demand that our leaders uphold the principles of religious freedom and respect for diversity that are enshrined in our constitution.

Ultimately, this is about more than just politics or policy; it’s about the kind of society we want to live in. Do we want a Bangladesh where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their faith? Or do we want a society where fear and intolerance reign?

The choice is ours to make, but we must act now before it’s too late. Let’s come together as Bangladeshis and as global citizens to protect religious freedom for all. It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s the only way forward towards a brighter, more inclusive future.