Cox's bazar: The government today unveiled the draft National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance 2025 at a function in Cox's Bazar, marking a significant step forward in the country's commitment to human rights protection and alignment with international standards.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event, titled "Stakeholder Consultation on the Reform of the National Human Rights Commission Act 2009," was organized by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division under the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Strengthening Institutions, Policies and Services (SIPS) Programme, with support from the Embassy of Switzerland.
The new draft ordinance, designed to replace the NHRC Act 2009, seeks to enhance the Commission's independence, inclusivity, and accountability. It seeks to align the NHRC's mandate with relevant parts of the Paris Principles and addresses key recommendations from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), said an UNDP press release.
Speaking as chief guest, Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, highlighted the importance of an independent and accountable Human Rights Commission that is free from political influence and rooted in citizen participation.
Adilur Rahman Khan, Adviser, Ministry of Housing and Public Works, emphasized the necessity of a truly independent and inclusive Human Rights Commission for Bangladesh to meet international standards and restore public trust.
Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, reiterated UNDP's commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh in shaping a stronger and more effective National Human Rights Commission. He expressed honor in partnering for these reforms at a pivotal moment in the country's history.
Reto Renggli, Ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh, remarked on the importance of amending the NHRC Act to ensure the Commission's independence, efficiency, and credibility, which are crucial for protecting citizens' rights and reinforcing democratic principles.
Nicolas Weeks, Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh, reiterated Sweden's support in the reform process, vital for safeguarding human rights and advancing inclusive development.
Barrister Tanim Hussain Shawon, Special Consultant, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, presented the keynote on the proposed NHRC Ordinance 2025, while Iftikhar Syed Ali, Human Rights Officer, UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Cox's Bazar, shared the UN's position paper on the current law.
The Cox's Bazar consultation follows earlier rounds in Sylhet and Khulna, with further divisional consultations planned nationwide ahead of a divisional consultation in the north and the National Dialogue in Dhaka. Recommendations gathered will inform the final amendments to the NHRC Act 2009. Public opinions or comments on the draft NHRC Ordinance 2025 are invited by 18 September at [email protected].