THE FACEBOOK POST THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING FOR SHAHNEWAZ.
UPDATE 10th December: Any donation you make today will be matched, dollar for dollar, by two Amnesty donors who want to help protect individuals at risk (up to the amount of $114,000). Your donation today will go twice as far to protect people like Shahnewaz, who was imprisoned just for voicing his opinion on Facebook.
Growing up in a coastal village in the Banshkhali District - a low-lying area that is vulnerable to extreme weather events - Shahnewaz saw the impacts of climate change first-hand.
He grew up experiencing regular, catastrophic cyclones and tidal waves that would destroy homes, and claim lives. In May 2021, Shahnewaz took to Facebook to raise his concerns about a new coal-fired power plant that was due to be established in his community. Worried about its impact on the environment, he encouraged young people to speak out against the power plant.
The following day, the power plant company filed a case against Shahnewaz, accusing him of posting false information. Three days later, he was arrested by police under Bangladesh’s oppressive Digital Security Act. He was detained in inhumane conditions for 80 days, before being released on bail. Now, he faces up to 10 years in prison if his trial results in conviction.
“I felt like I was being buried alive. I did not know how my family was doing, my family did not know how I was spending my days in prison. It was suffocating. I was deprived of all care and affection”
- Shahnewaz Chowdhury,
Bangladeshi Engineer and Activist awaiting trial.
Shahnewaz has been released on bail as he awaits his trial. If convicted, he faces many more years in prison in abysmal conditions. Your urgent gift today will help protect the voices and lives of people like Shahnewaz, as they continue to fearlessly stand up for a more just future for all.
100% FUNDED BY YOU
We have the power to make governments change because we are 100% independent and unstoppable. For the people, by the people.
Amnesty doesn’t accept funding from governments or political organisations so they have zero leverage on what we do.
This financial independence means we are free to campaign with objectivity and impartiality and to defend human rights worldwide.
All donations of $2 and over are tax deductible in Australia. Please make a donation now and help human rights defenders around the world.
Having trouble donating on our website? Please call our Supporter Care Team on 1300 300 920 for assistance. Thank you for your support.