The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has issued its official reaction to the death sentence handed down to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in the case over crimes against humanity committed during the July uprising.

In a statement from Geneva on Monday, OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the verdict delivered by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal marks “a significant moment for victims of serious human rights violations committed during last year’s crackdown on protests.”

Shamdasani noted that since the release of OHCHR’s investigative report in February 2025, the office has repeatedly called for all perpetrators — including those in command and leadership positions — to be held accountable in line with international standards. She stressed that victims must also have access to effective remedies and compensation.

She said OHCHR did not directly monitor the trial proceedings, but has consistently underlined the need for adequate safeguards of fair trial rights in all accountability processes involving international crimes. “This is particularly important in a case where the trial took place in absentia and resulted in a death sentence,” she added.

Expressing regret over the imposition of capital punishment, Shamdasani reiterated that the UN opposes the death penalty in all circumstances.

Calling for restraint from all parties in the aftermath of the verdict, she said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk hopes Bangladesh will pursue a comprehensive process of truth-seeking, reparations, and justice. This should include “internationally compliant, meaningful, and transformative security sector reforms to ensure such violations do not recur,” she said.

Shamdasani added that OHCHR stands ready to support the government and people of Bangladesh in these efforts.