Under the CREMI (Child Rights & Election Monitoring Initiative), a joint initiative of the Bangladesh Media Monitor and Kashful Foundation, we have conducted an intensive investigation. The objective of this initiative was to monitor the abuse of children in electoral politics and ensure media accountability. The findings of our investigation are hereby published in the public interest.
This investigation reveals an alarming picture of the abuse of children in electoral politics. Since the announcement of the election schedule, more than 205 specific incidents of children being used in political activities have come to our attention. The involved parties include the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islamic Front, Islami Andolan, BASAD, Khelafat Majlish, and independent candidates. As a result of involving children in high-risk political campaigns, multiple fatalities occurred in Satkhira and Chattogram, and a brutal physical assault was documented in Lakshmipur.
We strongly protest such abuse of children and the creation of life-threatening risks. We call upon political parties, the media, and all relevant stakeholders to be more responsible and sensitive toward child protection. The struggle for victory must not come at the cost of a child’s childhood or life.
More than fifty individuals were directly involved in this investigation. Due to constraints in manpower and resources, this is only a snapshot within the context of Bangladesh. We will publish a full report on this matter following the post-election period. Any organization may publish or use this information for public interest, provided they follow the proper rules and cite the source of information.
Our commitment – may politics be safe for all, and may every child’s childhood remain protected.
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