Dhaka:The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is prepared to assist with orientation programs and training for newly elected members of parliament in Bangladesh, as well as strengthen parliamentary committees and implement gender equality policies. This announcement was made by UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh, Stephen Rodriques, during a courtesy call on Deputy Speaker of Jatiya Sangsad, Barrister Kayser Kamal.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rodriques emphasized UNDP's ongoing collaboration with Bangladesh, highlighting the organization's role in supporting training programs for lawmakers and contributing positively to democratic reforms in the country.
Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal acknowledged UNDP's important role in the nation's democratic developments and noted the organization's contributions to various training initiatives. He also praised the younger generation for ending the previous government's authoritarian rule, citing their efforts as inspired by global movements against authoritarianism.
Kamal further highlighted the democratic progress in Bangladesh, noting the country's transition from authoritarian rule to a democratic government elected through the people's voting rights. He credited former leaders such as Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for establishing and advancing democracy in the country.
Stephen Rodriques reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to assisting the Bangladesh parliament with training programs for first-time lawmakers and supporting the implementation of gender equality policies. He also expressed interest in enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary committees.
The meeting was attended by officials from both UNDP and the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat, where discussions included the need for bureaucratic reforms within the state structure.