Warning delay risks weakening human rights safeguards
A coalition of international human rights organisations has urged the Bangladesh government to urgently pass two key ordinances aimed at strengthening accountability and protecting fundamental rights.
In a joint statement, groups including Human Rights Watch, ARTICLE 19 and CIVICUS called for the immediate enactment of the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance 2025 and the Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Ordinance 2025.
The organisations warned that failure to pass the ordinances in Parliament could result in their lapse, potentially reversing recent reforms and weakening the authority of the National Human Rights Commission Bangladesh.
They said the updated legal framework has significantly strengthened the commission’s independence and mandate, enabling it to investigate abuses, including those involving security forces, and monitor detention facilities in line with international standards such as the Paris Principles.
The statement also highlighted provisions under the enforced disappearance ordinance, which for the first time recognise enforced disappearance as a distinct crime under Bangladeshi law and provide legal remedies for victims and their families.
Rights groups cautioned that reverting to the earlier 2009 legal framework would undermine progress, describing the previous system as ineffective in addressing violations.
They urged the government to pass the ordinances without dilution, emphasising that any amendments should further align the law with global human rights standards.
The coalition described the decession as a critical test for the current administration’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring accountability.
