UN Special Rapporteur on Ultra Poverty and Human Rights Oliver D. Shatter recommended that the Digital Security Act be suspended until qualitative changes are made. He also expressed concern about its impact on the effective ability of civil society to operate freely.
Journalists, human rights activists, opposition politicians and academics have been detained under the Digital Security Act while exercising their right to freedom of expression.
After a 12-day visit to Bangladesh, he addressed a press conference at a hotel in Dhaka. Regarding the incidents that are happening as a result of the implementation of the Digital Security Act, he said, in view of this, it will not only spread fear in attracting investors to this country. At the same time, it is also a hindrance in terms of economic and social rights. So he called for the suspension of this law.
It is to be noted that this expert of the United Nations travels around the country during his visit to Bangladesh. During this time he spoke to NGOs, government officials and people living in poverty. Without improving accountability and transparency, healthcare, education or social security cannot be guaranteed, he said.