Regional Dialogue in Sylhet Focuses on Operationalizing the NHRC Ordinance 2025

Published : Wednesday, 3 December, 2025 at 8:16 PM Count : 192

A regional dialogue on “Operationalizing the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance 2025” was held today in Sylhet, bringing together government representatives, development partners, civil society members, and stakeholders to discuss the next steps in strengthening human rights governance in Bangladesh.

Organized under the Strengthening Institutions, Policies and Services (SIPS) project of UNDP Bangladesh, with support from the Embassy of Switzerland, the dialogue aimed to build a shared understanding of the newly adopted NHRC Ordinance and identify priority actions for its timely and effective implementation.

The event opened with remarks by Mahmudul Hasan, Project Manager of the SIPS Project, followed by keynote presentations from Romana Schweiger, Senior Rule of Law, Justice and Security Advisor at UNDP Bangladesh, and Sohel Ibne Ali, Senior Programme Manager at the Embassy of Switzerland. They underscored the need for a strong, independent, and credible NHRC to safeguard rights, enhance accountability, and strengthen public trust in national institutions.

Romana Schweiger highlighted that the key challenge now lies in forming a robust Commission and ensuring full implementation of the new Ordinance in line with international human rights standards, aiming for eventual compliance with the GANHRI Accreditation (Status A).

Speaking on behalf of Switzerland, Sohel Ibne Ali noted that the new Ordinance is significantly stronger and more effective than the previous NHRC Act 2009, reflecting extensive consultations and engagement with diverse stakeholders. He emphasized that the real success will depend on its implementation so that all citizens benefit from improved rights protections. “Switzerland is proud to support this important reform initiative alongside UNDP and the Government,” he added.

A comprehensive briefing on the Ordinance was presented by Barrister Tanim Hussain Shawon, Special Consultant at the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. He outlined the essential reforms, institutional needs, and practical steps required for operationalizing the Commission. He noted that the Ordinance has already been amended to resolve clerical issues and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to establishing a National Protection System through a transparent appointment process for commissioners. He reiterated that the interim government aims to complete the foundational work before handing over to the next elected administration.

During the open discussion, participants raised key considerations related to the Ordinance and proposed recommendations for a 12–18-month roadmap to transition from legislation to a fully functional and effective NHRC. Suggestions focused on institutional capacity strengthening, improved coordination mechanisms, and ensuring accessible services for communities across Bangladesh.

The dialogue concluded with closing remarks from the speakers, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the Government of Bangladesh in implementing the reforms needed to ensure the NHRC operates with enhanced credibility, independence, and long-term impact.

FP/MI