The interim government has given policy-level approval for the establishment of a United Nations Human Rights Office in Dhaka for an initial term of three years.
The decision comes in the wake of heightened international attention following allegations of crimes against humanity during the July Uprising.
The decision was finalized at a meeting of the Advisory Council held on Sunday. Law Advisor Asif Nazrul confirmed that the move follows extended discussions between the United Nations and the government.
“Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, submitted a report addressing crimes against humanity committed during the July Uprising,” Nazrul stated. “The decision to open a human rights office in Dhaka marks a significant step forward.”
According to officials, the presence of a UN human rights mission is expected to strengthen both international oversight and domestic accountability in the face of ongoing concerns over political violence and rights violations.
The government has also approved a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which is now under further review by a group of advisors. Once finalized, the draft will be shared with the UN High Commissioner.
“We anticipate that the MoU will be signed soon,” said Nazrul. “Based on that agreement, the UN will set up its human rights mission in Bangladesh.”
The initial mandate for the office is set for three years, with the option for extension upon mutual agreement. “If both parties feel in the second year that the mandate should be renewed, that can be negotiated,” he added.
The upcoming office of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is expected to play an active role in addressing any future human rights violations in the country, working alongside national institutions to ensure justice and transparency.
