Jason Wood (La Trobe, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Community Safety, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to speak about the recent Bangladesh civil unrest. I extend my heartfelt support and solidarity to all the wonderful Australian Bangladesh community, who are facing a challenging and very distressing time in light of the recent civil unrest and protests in Bangladesh. I'm deeply saddened to hear about reports of deaths and injuries of civilians, including many students. Many have been killed during the protests. Freedom of expression and peaceful protest are a fundamental right of any democracy. The voices of the Bangladeshi people deserve to be heard and should be met with respect and consideration.

It is also very concerning and distressing to hear about the recent attacks on the Hindu community and Hindu temples and on Ahmadiyya and other minority communities in Bangladesh. The crisis is becoming a widespread humanitarian crisis. I condemn any violence and urge all parties involved to seek a peaceful resolution. I call upon the interim government to take all necessary action to protect and safeguard all ethnic and religious communities in Bangladesh, and the Australian government should provide all necessary support to those affected in the crisis. I have a very strong association with our wonderful Australian Bangladesh community and have been in touch with many since the protests first broke out. I give my heartfelt condolences again for all those who have lost their lives and all the loved ones and families involved.