SS Report
Dhaka, 10 December 2025:
On Human Rights Day 2025, the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division (LPAD) of the Ministry of Law and UNDP, with support from the Embassy of Switzerland, convened a high-level discussion in Dhaka to assess the state of human rights in Bangladesh and outline priorities for reform. Senior government officials, development partners, civil society representatives, and rights advocates joined the event, reaffirming their commitment to justice, equality, and stronger rights protections.
A key focus was the momentum behind institutional reforms, particularly the long-awaited update of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) through the Ordinance 2025. Speakers underscored the need for the swift appointment of NHRC commissioners to operationalise the reforms and strengthen oversight mechanisms.
Delivering special remarks, Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, said that real progress requires strong institutions and effective implementation of laws. Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan noted that Bangladesh has begun moving away from past rights violations toward meaningful reform. Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan praised the Ministry of Law for prioritising people-centred reforms.
UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller highlighted efforts to align Bangladesh’s legal frameworks with international human rights standards, while Switzerland reaffirmed its support for inclusive, evidence-based reforms.
Expert sessions discussed operationalising the NHRC Ordinance, preventing torture, improving access to justice, and strengthening civil society engagement. UNDP reiterated its commitment to supporting Bangladesh in building accountable, people-centred institutions that safeguard fundamental rights.
