Bangladesh government has introduced the draft “National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance 2025”, a key move towards enhancing the country’s human rights protections and ensuring alignment with global standards.
To unveil the draft ordinance, an event titled “Stakeholder Consultation on the Reform of the National Human Rights Commission Act 2009”, was hosted by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division under the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs in Cox’s Bazar on Saturday.
The event was held in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Strengthening Institutions, Policies and Services (SIPS) Programme, with support from the Swiss Embassy.
This new draft ordinance aims to replace the NHRC Act 2009 and focuses on bolstering the commission’s autonomy, inclusivity, and accountability.
The proposal is designed to align with the Paris Principles and addresses vital recommendations from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI).
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul emphasised the importance of a fully independent and accountable human rights commission.
“For the NHRC to truly function, it must operate free from political interference and remain rooted in public participation.”
Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan echoed this sentiment, calling for a robust and inclusive commission to meet international human rights standards and restore public trust.
Stefan Liller, resident representative of the UNDP in Bangladesh, spoke on the UN role, affirming, “Human rights and governance are central to the UNDP’s mission.”
“We are committed to assisting Bangladesh in building a more robust and effective National Human Rights Commission.”
Switzerland’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Renggli also underscored the significance of these reforms. He remarked, “Amending the NHRC Act is essential for strengthening the commission’s independence, efficiency, and credibility, ultimately improving citizens’ rights protection and fostering greater trust in democratic institutions.”
Sweden Ambassador Nicolas Weeks voiced his country’s continued support for Bangladesh’s efforts, stating, “Independent human rights institutions are the cornerstone of democracy. Sweden remains steadfast in supporting Bangladesh’s reform process, crucial for the protection of human rights and advancing inclusive development.”
Barrister Tanim Hussain Shawon, special consultant to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, provided an overview of the proposed ordinance, while Iftikhar Syed Ali, Human Rights Officer with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Cox’s Bazar, presented a position paper on the current law.
This consultation in Cox’s Bazar follows earlier sessions in Sylhet and Khulna, with additional divisional consultations planned across the country. The feedback gathered will inform the final amendments to the NHRC Act 2009. Members of the public can submit their comments on the draft ordinance by September 18 via email at [email protected].
