STARTTS’ Statement on Events in Bangladesh

NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) acknowledges the significant political changes in Bangladesh. These developments mark a pivotal moment for the Bangladeshi people, who have endured years of autocratic governance, repression, and human rights abuses. The end of this era brings a complex mix of relief, hope, and uncertainty for a nation that has long struggled under such conditions.

We understand the profound impact that years of autocratic rule can have on the mental health and well-being of a population. STARTTS stands in solidarity with the Bangladeshi people during this transition and remains committed to supporting survivors of torture and trauma, including those within the Bangladeshi community in Australia. We urge all new leadership to prioritise human rights, justice, and national reconciliation, ensuring that the voices of survivors are heard and their needs met with empathy and action. We also call upon the Australian and international community to support Bangladesh in this critical period, helping to build a peaceful, inclusive, and just society where every individual can live free from fear and with the opportunity to heal and thrive.