Bangladesh Demonstrating Leadership with Reliable Rights Authority: Asif Nazrul

The Government of Bangladesh has launched a nationwide consultation process to reform the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), with the aim of amending the NHRC Act, 2009 to address existing legal and operational gaps and to align the Commission with internationally recognized standards, particularly the Paris Principles.

The reform process, led by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Embassy of Switzerland, involves multi-stakeholder consultations in all eight divisions, culminating in a national consultation in Dhaka.

The first consultation took place in Sylhet today, where participants shared insights and recommendations on legal and institutional reforms, enhanced accountability, and the protection of citizens from both state and non-state abuses. Key areas under discussion include transparent appointment procedures for Commissioners, stronger investigative powers, operational independence, and improved collaboration with civil society and media.

Dr Hafiz Ahmed Chowdhury, Secretary of LPAD, emphasized the importance of effective enforcement in the reform process. Anowarul Haq, Acting Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, highlighted UNDP's role in supporting the reform and stated their aim to ensure the Commission's independence, credibility, and effectiveness in line with global standards.

The government is committed to ensuring that only individuals with the highest integrity will serve in the National Human Rights Commission to safeguard the rights of citizens. With the amendment and proper implementation of the Act, Bangladesh can set an example of an independent and trusted National Human Rights Commission.

However, the initiative does not specify a timeline for the completion of the nationwide consultation process and the implementation of the reformed NHRC. The exact date of the next multi-stakeholder consultation for the reform of the National Human Rights Commission in Dhaka has not been publicly announced.

It is worth noting that the National Human Rights Commission, despite being established to promote and protect human rights, has faced challenges in fully carrying out its mandate. The reform process focuses on addressing these challenges and ensuring that the Commission can fulfill its role effectively.

The reform process also does not provide details about the specific changes to be made in the NHRC Act, 2009. However, it is clear that the government is committed to making the necessary adjustments to bring the Commission in line with internationally recognized standards and to ensure that it can effectively protect the human rights of all citizens in Bangladesh.