Abu SufianOne afternoon at the Islamabad Club, our Bangladeshi journalist delegation sat down for lunch with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information, Mr. Ataullah Tarar. The discussion centered on the future of bilateral relations. Minister Tarar expressed his hopes that ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan would soon reach new heights.
He spoke enthusiastically about launching exchange programs between the two nations—ranging from cultural and academic exchanges to collaborations between think tanks. At just 38, Mr. Tarar is one of the youngest ministers in Pakistan’s cabinet, and his tone was optimistic. “Bangladesh and Pakistan share a historical past,” he said. “Let’s advance it to a shared future.”
His words were well chosen and encouraging. I listened closely, taking notes on the points he raised. But before I reflect on his proposals, I feel compelled to share an experience that added depth to how I interpreted his message.
Just two days earlier, we visited the offices of We News English. While some of my Muslim colleagues attended Friday prayers at a nearby mosque, I stepped outside and engaged in short conversations with a group of young Pakistanis. I had a few questions on my mind:
- What are the main political or cultural challenges facing Pakistani youth today?
- How do they view recent developments in Bangladesh?
The responses about Bangladesh were overwhelmingly positive. These young people recognized Bangladesh’s sovereignty and viewed it as a progressive nation. But when I asked about the domestic challenges they face, a noticeable silence took over. None were willing to speak on camera. I could sense hesitation—an internal struggle between wanting to speak out and fearing the consequences.
When I stopped recording, they opened up. Several of them mentioned the real threat of enforced disappearances for criticizing the government, military, or judiciary—even on social media. They shared stories of people abducted for a Facebook post or a tweet. It was chilling—yet sadly, it was not unfamiliar to me.
As a Bangladeshi journalist, I understand this kind of fear all too well. Our people have lived under similar conditions, suffering from enforced disappearances, suppression of free speech, and the loss of basic democratic rights.
However, following the mass uprising in July, Bangladesh is undergoing change. Since August 5, there have been no reports of state-enforced disappearances or extrajudicial killings. While there are still flaws in our legal and law enforcement systems, the people’s voices are louder than ever—and they are being heard.
The youth in Bangladesh, especially, are upholding core democratic values. The movement wasn’t just about abolishing the quota system in government jobs; it was a collective call to end the abuses and misgovernance under the previous regime. Despite differing ideologies, the nation is united on one point: no one should be forcibly disappeared again.
If Pakistan is genuinely interested in rebuilding its relationship with the people of Bangladesh, it must embrace the same values. It must end the practice of enforced disappearances, protect freedom of expression, and hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable.
A direct flight between Bangladesh and Pakistan by Fly Jinnah is about to begin. Bangladeshis are eager to explore Pakistan and engage with its people. But if the shadow of repression continues, that curiosity may turn into caution—and eventually, avoidance.
I hope Pakistan’s top officials understand this sentiment. Journalists and advocates around the world will continue to ask hard questions. And we will continue to raise our voices until every citizen in the region enjoys the dignity, freedom, and rights they deserve.
