Dhaka: The government today approved the drafts of the 'Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress (Amendment) Ordinance 2025' and the 'Bangladesh Haor and Wetland Conservation Ordinance 2025,' alongside a proposal to establish a new embassy in Bern, Switzerland. The Council of Advisers made this decision during its weekly meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, according to the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the 'Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress (Amendment) Ordinance 2025' includes a provision that allows a tribunal to officially declare a person as "disappeared" if they remain missing for at least five years without returning alive. The ordinance grants the government the authority to appoint necessary public prosecutors for the tribunal based on recommendations from the National Human Rights Commission. Victims or complainants can also appoint lawyers on their own initiative, and family members of a disappeared person can use their property without prior approval from the commission.
The Council of Advisers also approved the draft of the Bangladesh Haor and Wetland Conservation Ordinance 2025. This ordinance outlines the responsibilities, authority, and jurisdiction of the Bangladesh Haor and Wetland Development Department, including the issuance of protection orders to conserve biodiversity, environment, ecology, and ecosystems of haor and wetland areas. It details prohibited activities in these areas, declares such activities as offenses if committed, and imposes penalties for the offenses. Furthermore, it mandates seeking the department's opinion on development projects in haor and wetland areas.
Additionally, the Council of Advisers approved the establishment of a new Bangladesh embassy in Bern, Switzerland. Since independence, Bangladesh has maintained a permanent mission in Geneva, handling both United Nations-related work and embassy functions. Recognizing Switzerland as an important development and strategic partner, the decision to open an embassy in Bern was taken to enhance diplomatic relations. The new embassy will initially operate with an ambassador, a first secretary, and several officials and staff. Currently, Bangladesh has 82 mission offices worldwide.
The meeting also addressed the health condition of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure in the July Uprising and spokesperson of the Inqilab Mancha. Hadi's condition remains critical, and Singapore's Foreign Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan has been in regular contact with the Chief Adviser for updates. A senior official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh is in Singapore overseeing Hadi's treatment. The Council of Advisers also commended the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs for organizing this year's Victory Day celebrations in an orderly manner.