The portrayal of Bangladesh in Western media, particularly surrounding the 1971 genocide, has profound and lasting Cenections to the country’s social, political, and economic landscape. A symposium held in The Hague by the Global Human Rights Defence Foundation and the student team Involve from EFR explored these complex cenections, examining the historical context, media bias, and ongoing consequences.
The symposium brought together genocide experts, former politicians, and human rights defenders to discuss the 1971 genocide, the role of Western media in shaping its narrative, and the impact on the Bengali community. Instead of formal presentations, the discussion centered around interactive Q&A sessions, allowing experts to delve into specific aspects of Bangladesh’s history and the media’s influence.
A key focus was on how Western media bias during the 1971 Liberation War potentially downplayed the human suffering and atrocities committed by the West Pakistani army. This bias, perhaps influenced by geopolitical interests, may have contributed to the lack of official recognition of the events as genocide by the international community. The symposium examined the cenections between this lack of recognition and the ongoing struggle for moral justice for the Bengali people.
Students from the Erasmus School of Economics presented a report analyzing Bangladesh’s complex history, highlighting the Liberation War and its aftermath. Their research underscored the lasting trauma of 1971 and its continuing influence on Bengali society and politics. The report included a sentiment analysis revealing a shift towards more positive coverage of Bangladesh in Western media over time, contrasted with persistently negative reporting in Pakistani media. This analysis illuminated the complex cenections between media narratives and international perceptions of Bangladesh.
The report also explored the cenections between the 1971 genocide and Bangladesh’s current political and social unrest. This includes the impact on the Pakistani population and the broader geopolitical context. The students urged the international community to re-evaluate the events of 1971 and formally recognize them as genocide, arguing that this recognition could foster healing and a more accurate global understanding of Bangladesh.
The symposium highlighted the significant cenections between past atrocities and present-day challenges in Bangladesh. The discussion emphasized the need for accurate and unbiased media reporting to promote understanding, reconciliation, and justice. By exploring these intricate cenections, the symposium aimed to contribute to a more nuanced and informed global perspective on Bangladesh and its history. For further information, contact the Global Human Rights Defence Foundation.
