What is the campaign about?

The campaign is spearheaded by two pivotal entities: the Bangladeshi Diaspora for Justice and Accountability, and Zaki Omar, an Australian-Bangladeshi human rights lawyer. These parties are gather substantial evidence to present to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Their mission is to prosecute those responsible for the July student massacre in Bangladesh, characterized by severe human rights abuses.

Why is this campaign significant?

This campaign is vital for several reasons:

• Seeking Justice: It aims to bring justice to the victims of the July student massacre by holding the perpetrators accountable under international law.
• Setting Precedents: The initiative is set to establish global precedents for handling similar crimes against humanity, reinforcing the enforcement of international human rights standards.
• Strengthening Cases: Involvement by respected organizations and legal experts ensures that the case is robust, meeting the rigorous standards required by the ICC.
• Multiple Initiatives: The ICC’s acceptance of cases from various sources allows a more comprehensive assembly of evidence and perspectives, which can strengthen the case further.

What are the organizations doing?

1. Evidence Collection: Gathering all available documents, photos, and video footage to substantiate the events and identify the perpetrators.
2. Legal Review: Collaborating with lawyers, including those offering pro bono services, to ensure the evidence meets ICC standards.
3. Strategic Investigation: Conducting administrative mappings and linking officials within the administration to the atrocities committed, documenting every connection and order that led to these severe human rights violations.
4. Global Mobilization: Rallying support from global rights groups and civil society to join in a unified submission, enhancing the credibility and impact of the evidence presented.

How can a person help?

1. Submitting Evidence: Individuals with relevant evidence can submit it through secure platforms provided by the campaign, ensuring the integrity and admissibility of the evidence.
2. Expertise and Legal Support: Lawyers and human rights experts can contribute their services to review the evidence and prepare the case.
3. Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about the campaign helps build public support and pressures international bodies to act. Sharing information and educating others about the situation are critical.
4. Financial and Volunteer Support: Donations support the logistical and legal expenses of the case. Volunteering in various capacities aids the campaign’s efforts significantly.
5. Joining the Movement: Being part of the global movement amplifies the call for justice, through signing petitions and participating in forums.

Challenges and Timeframe

• Complexity: The investigation is highly complex, requiring extensive educational and professional efforts.
• Duration: The process is expected to take 2 to 3 years, emphasizing the need for patience and persistence.

Future Documentation Use

• Research Value: The carefully collected and preserved documentation will serve as a valuable material for future researchers.
• Institutional Accountability: The investigation’s thoroughness, conducted by reputed organizations, puts pressure on Bangladesh’s institutions towards accountability.

This campaign represents a pivotal effort in international law and human rights, where every contribution, small or large, can play a part in paving the way toward justice for the victims of the July student massacre in Bangladesh.