Stephen Schneck, Chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna here today.
Their discussions encompassed the state of religious freedom in Bangladesh, the July 2024 uprising, the Interim Government’s reform agenda, proposed constitutional amendments, and the ongoing Rohingya crisis, CA’s press wing sources said.
During the meeting, Prof Yunus underscored the significant role of religion in Bangladesh and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring religious harmony in the country of 171 million people.
“We are committed to safeguarding the religious freedom of every citizen of the country,” the Chief Adviser said.
Addressing allegations of violence against minorities, Yunus emphasised the Interim Government’s commitment to transparency by inviting journalists worldwide to visit Bangladesh and assess the situation firsthand.
Prof Yunus expressed concern over orchestrated disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting the July uprising and undermining minority rights in the subsequent months.
He highlighted massive efforts from external sources, including media from the South Asia region, to portray the uprising as an Islamist extremist movement.
