Abstract

The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was marked by widespread atrocities, including targeted violence against minorities. This research investigates the protection of minority communities under International Law during the 1971 genocide in Bangladesh, particularly in Madhupur, a region within Tangail District. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of International Law frameworks in safeguarding these communities amidst the conflict. Focusing on the specific context of Madhupur, the research examines the implementation and enforcement of international legal protections during the genocide. The study employs an empirical research design, integrating historical analysis, case study methods, and legal analysis. Primary data is collected through survivor interviews, archival government and military documents, and reports from international and local non-governmental organizations. Secondary data includes academic literature on the 1971 war, legal texts on international law, and previous case studies on genocide. The research identifies specific failures in the enforcement of international law, exacerbated by political, logistical, and contextual challenges. These failures had profound short-term and long-term impacts on the minority communities, contributing to extensive loss of life, displacement, and enduring trauma. The study concludes with suggestions for strengthening the protection of minorities in future conflicts. The research underscores the necessity for robust and practical implementations of international law to prevent similar atrocities. By critically assessing the historical and legal aspects of the 1971 genocide in Madhupur, this study contributes to the broader discourse on genocide prevention and minority rights. It provides valuable insights for policymakers, legal practitioners, and scholars, aiming to enhance the protection frameworks and ensure accountability in the face of such human rights violations.

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