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EU worried over DSA, media environment

Its special envoy says they want to see free, fair polls in Bangladesh
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
The European Union has voiced concerns over the operation of the Digital Security Act and the environment for the civil society and the media in Bangladesh.
After discussions with Cabinet members, top government officials and the head of the human rights commission yesterday, Eamon Gilmore, EU special representative for human rights, also said they expect to see a fair and peaceful election held in a democratic atmosphere.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Gilmore, Law Minister Anisul Huq said a bill to amend the DSA is likely to be placed and passed in parliament in September.
Gilmore arrived in Dhaka on July 24 on a six-day visit upon Bangladesh’s invitation.
After a meeting with Anisul, he told reporters, “As you all know, the European Union has been concerned about the operation of the Digital Security Act and the very large number of cases filed by individuals against journalists and social media users.”
He said Anisul also briefed him about the amendments to be made to the DSA. “We will examine those once they are made.”
Gilmore further said the EU has already submitted to the authorities concerned their suggestions regarding the amendments based on their experience.
“There were also discussions on an anti-discrimination legislation, a data protection draft law, and labour rights issues.”
Anisul said Gilmore’s visit will strengthen Bangladesh-EU relations.
About the DSA amendments, he said, “All I can say now is that everyone will be happy about how the Digital Security Act will be amended,” adding, “The labour right’s situation, on the other hand, is good now.”
Meanwhile, after meeting NHRC Chairman Kamal Uddin Ahmed, Gilmore told reporters, “We discussed issues related to the country’s environment for civil society organisations and the media – these are some areas of concern for us.
“We are looking forward to negotiations for a new cooperation agreement between the European Union and Bangladesh that will take place over the next couple of years.
“Human rights is very much at the heart of the relationship. The EU looks to Bangladesh to ensure high labour standards, including fair wages.”
He added, “Bangladesh is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the trade preferences system.”
Regarding private sector business investment, he said investors around the world want to ensure they are investing in an environment that respects human rights and is good for citizens, while consumers also
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