SS Report
Dhaka, 26 August 2025:
Bangladesh has launched the Digital Legal Aid Project, a major reform initiative aimed at making justice more accessible, affordable, and efficient. The project, announced at the National Conference on Legal Aid in Dhaka on 25 August, is led by the National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and supported by the European Union (EU).
The initiative follows the transformative 2025 amendments to the Legal Aid Act, which introduce mandatory pre-case mediation and digitally enforceable settlements, shifting the legal aid system from a reactive model to a more proactive, citizen-focused approach.
Chief Justice Dr. Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, speaking at the event, hailed the reforms as a “seismic change” in justice delivery. “Legal aid must now anticipate challenges and ensure no citizen remains unrepresented,” he said.
Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul highlighted the transformative potential of the reforms in reducing litigation burdens and increasing access, particularly for the poor.
EU Ambassador H.E. Michael Miller and UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller praised the integration of technology in legal aid, including virtual platforms, helplines, and online dispute resolution, which will help reduce case backlogs and support legal aid delivery at the district and upazila levels.
The event gathered nearly 300 participants, including judges, magistrates, bar association leaders, and senior government officials. The Digital Legal Aid Project reinforces Bangladesh’s commitment to justice for all, using innovation to empower citizens and strengthen the rule of law.
Source: UNDP Communication team
