Dhaka:Bangladesh has reiterated its commitment to engage constructively with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), emphasizing its focus on enhancing democracy, protecting fundamental freedoms, and advancing institutional reforms.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir affirmed this commitment during a meeting with Sabine Magdalena Lauber, the newly appointed Chief of the OHCHR Mission in Bangladesh, who presented her credentials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Kobir welcomed Lauber and congratulated her on her new role, underlining the government's priorities in promoting good governance, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and the press. He emphasized the necessity of building robust institutions through legal and institutional reforms.
The discussions also covered Bangladesh's ongoing engagement with UN Special Procedures mandate holders and upcoming visits by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar and the Special Rapporteur on the right to education. Kobir urged the OHCHR Mission to align its programs with the government's priorities and assured Lauber of full support and cooperation from the government in her duties.
Lauber expressed appreciation for the government's constructive approach and reaffirmed OHCHR's readiness to assist Bangladesh in promoting and protecting human rights and strengthening relevant institutions. She outlined her priorities and planned activities, stressing the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation with the government.
Lauber takes office as the first chief of the OHCHR Mission in Bangladesh, which was established under a three-year memorandum of understanding signed between Bangladesh and OHCHR in July 2025.