Chattogram Dialogue Calls for Swift NHRC Operationalisation

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, hosted a regional dialogue in Chattogram on 6 December to advance the implementation of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance 2025. The newly introduced ordinance aims to reinforce the legal framework for safeguarding human rights in Bangladesh.

The event gathered representatives from government agencies, human rights defenders, legal professionals, civil society organisations, youth groups, and development partners.

In his opening remarks, Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said, “This Ordinance lays a solid foundation for a stronger and more empowered National Human Rights Commission. But reform on paper is only the beginning — its implementation will be the real test.”

He further noted that, once fully operational under the new provisions, the NHRC will be positioned to play an important role during the country’s upcoming political transition.

The NHRC Ordinance enhances the Commission’s autonomy, broadens its mandate, and incorporates insights from more than 600 individuals consulted nationwide, including victims of rights violations, activists, experts, and government stakeholders. To ensure the reform is effectively realised, prompt operational measures are required — such as appointing new Commissioners, securing adequate financial and institutional capacity, establishing effective complaint-handling systems, strengthening public engagement, and supporting parliamentary ratification after the 2026 national election.

Participants of the dialogue agreed to work jointly toward implementing the Ordinance over the next 12 to 18 months. They urged government bodies, civil society, the media, and communities to collaborate in monitoring the timely appointment of Commissioners, advocating for legislative approval, increasing public awareness of NHRC services, and ensuring the Commission remains independent, accessible, and accountable to citizens.

Source: UNDP