, Dec. 23 -- Global human rights organisations have expressed concern that the targeting of politicians, activists, major media outlets and cultural institutions in Bangladesh, amid heightened political tensions ahead of the 2026 national election, signals a troubling erosion of the rule of law and a shrinking space for free expression, civic discourse and democratic participation.

"We stand in solidarity with Bangladesh's journalists, media workers, artists, and diverse communities," said the organisations in a joint statement shared by the Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Monday.

The organisations reiterated their commitment to defending freedom of expression, accountability, and the rights of communities to participate safely and freely i...