What are the predominant religions in your country?

In Bangladesh, Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority of the population adhering to the
Sunni branch of Islam. However, Bangladesh is also home to significant minority religious communities,
including Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and indigenous tribal faiths. Despite being a Muslim-majority
country, Bangladesh has a rich religious diversity, and the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion
and ensures equal rights for all religious groups. Interfaith harmony and coexistence are important
values in Bangladeshi society, with efforts made to promote tolerance and understanding among
different religious communities.

How are minority religions treated?

In Bangladesh, minority religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and various tribal faiths are
generally treated with respect and tolerance. The country upholds principles of religious freedom and
equality, allowing individuals of minority religious backgrounds to practice their faith freely without
discrimination. Moreover, Bangladeshis often celebrate the diversity of religious beliefs, fostering a
culture of inclusivity and mutual understanding where differences in faith are embraced as part of the
country's rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

What do human rights monitoring groups (for example, Human Rights Watch, Freedom
House and Amnesty International) say about your country’s religious tolerance?

Human rights monitoring groups such as Human Rights Watch, Freedom House, and Amnesty
International have generally recognized Bangladesh's efforts in promoting religious tolerance, but they
have also highlighted areas of concern. These organizations have acknowledged Bangladesh's legal
framework that guarantees freedom of religion and the government's commitment to protecting
minority rights. However, they have raised issues regarding incidents of violence and discrimination
targeting religious minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others. Reports from these
groups often cite instances of attacks on religious minorities, land grabs, forced conversions, and
inadequate protection by law enforcement agencies. They emphasize the need for stronger measures to
prevent religiously motivated violence and ensure justice for victims of such crimes.

Does your country separate religion from government?

Yes, Bangladesh separates religion from government affairs. The country's constitution declares it a
secular state, ensuring the independence of religious institutions from political interference. While Islam
is the state religion, the government is committed to upholding the rights of individuals of all faiths and
maintaining a secular legal framework that guarantees freedom of religion for all citizens. Political
decisions and governance are not influenced by religious considerations, and public institutions are
expected to operate in a manner that respects and upholds the principles of religious neutrality.

According to your country, what are the worst cases of religious intolerance occurring
in the world today?
Bangladesh considers various cases of religious intolerance occurring around the world, including
instances of discrimination, persecution, and violence targeting religious minorities. Among the most
concerning cases are those involving systematic repression of religious freedom, such as in regions
where individuals are persecuted for their religious beliefs, face restrictions on practicing their faith, or
are subjected to violence based on their religious identity. Additionally, Bangladesh is deeply concerned
about acts of terrorism and extremism perpetrated in the name of religion, which not only undermine
religious tolerance but also threaten global peace and security. The country advocates for international
cooperation and solidarity to address these challenges and uphold the principles of religious freedom
and human rights for all individuals, regardless of their faith.

What treaties has your government signed or ratified regarding religious intolerance?

Bangladesh has signed and ratified several international treaties and agreements concerning religious
intolerance and the protection of religious freedom. Some of the key treaties include:

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR): Bangladesh ratified the ICCPR in 2000, which
includes provisions safeguarding the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW): While not
directly focused on religious intolerance, CEDAW addresses gender-based discrimination, including in the
context of religious practices, and Bangladesh ratified it in 1984.

Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC): Bangladesh ratified the CRC in 1990, which includes
provisions related to protecting children's rights to freedom of religion and belief.

Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or
Belief: Bangladesh has endorsed this declaration, which reaffirms the principle of religious freedom and
condemns religious intolerance and discrimination.

These treaties reflect Bangladesh's commitment to upholding religious freedom and combating religious
intolerance both domestically and internationally.

What programs can your country suggest to help build respect for religion around the
world?

Bangladesh can suggest several programs to help build respect for religion around the world:

1. Interfaith Dialogue Initiatives: Bangladesh can promote programs that facilitate dialogue and
understanding among people of different religious backgrounds. These initiatives can bring
together religious leaders, scholars, and community members to engage in constructive
conversations, promote mutual respect, and foster peaceful coexistence.

2. Education and Awareness Campaigns: Bangladesh can support educational programs and
awareness campaigns that promote tolerance, diversity, and respect for religious beliefs. These
initiatives can be implemented through schools, religious institutions, media platforms, and
 community organizations to raise awareness about the importance of religious freedom and
combat stereotypes and prejudices.

3. Cultural Exchanges and Religious Tourism: Bangladesh can encourage cultural exchanges and
religious tourism to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for religious
diversity. These programs can involve organizing tours to religious sites, hosting cultural festivals,
and facilitating exchanges between religious communities to promote dialogue and mutual
understanding.

4. Human Rights Advocacy: Bangladesh can advocate for human rights and religious freedom at
international forums and platforms. By actively participating in discussions and initiatives related
to religious tolerance and freedom of belief, Bangladesh can contribute to global efforts to
protect and promote these fundamental rights.

5. Capacity Building and Training: Bangladesh can offer training and capacity-building programs for
religious leaders, educators, and community organizers to equip them with the skills and
knowledge needed to promote interfaith harmony, resolve conflicts peacefully, and address
issues of religious intolerance effectively.

Overall, Bangladesh can play a proactive role in promoting respect for religion worldwide by supporting
initiatives that foster dialogue, education, cultural exchange, and human rights advocacy.

How can the UN help stop state‐sponsored religious intolerance?

The UN can help stop state-sponsored religious intolerance by employing diplomatic efforts to engage
with governments, promoting the implementation of international legal frameworks to protect religious
freedom, providing technical assistance for capacity building, and conducting public awareness
campaigns to foster tolerance and respect for religious diversity.

Should some countries be pressured to change their government if their policies are
too restrictive?

The question of whether countries should be pressured to change their government if their policies are
too restrictive is a complex and contentious issue. While some argue that external pressure, such as
diplomatic sanctions or international condemnation, can be effective in promoting democracy and
human rights, others caution against interventionism and emphasize the importance of respecting
national sovereignty.

Proponents of pressuring countries to change their government argue that egregious violations of
human rights, including religious intolerance and other forms of repression, warrant international
intervention to protect vulnerable populations and uphold universal values. They argue that targeted
pressure, such as economic sanctions or diplomatic isolation, can incentivize authoritarian regimes to
reform their policies and respect human rights.
On the other hand, critics of external pressure caution that interventions aimed at regime change can be
counterproductive and lead to unintended consequences, including instability, violence, and further
repression. They argue that diplomatic engagement and dialogue, coupled with support for civil society
and grassroots movements, offer more sustainable and effective ways to promote democratic reforms
and human rights protections.

Ultimately, the decision to pressure countries to change their government should be carefully
considered, taking into account the specific context, the potential consequences of intervention, and the
principles of sovereignty and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. Any actions taken should
be guided by international law, respect for human rights, and a commitment to promoting peace, justice,
and democracy worldwide.

In conclusion, Bangladesh's religious landscape reflects a diverse tapestry of beliefs and practices, with
Islam being the predominant religion while also accommodating significant minority religious
communities. Despite occasional challenges, the country generally fosters an environment of religious
tolerance and coexistence, with efforts made to uphold the principles of freedom of religion and equal
rights for all. Moving forward, it is essential for Bangladesh to continue promoting interfaith harmony,
respecting religious diversity, and safeguarding the rights of all religious groups, ensuring a society where
individuals can practice their faiths freely and peacefully.