Young Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) from across Bangladesh pledged to promote and protect human rights during a two-day workshop titled "Consultation with Human Rights Defenders: Advancing the Protection of Human Rights," organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The event, held from 20-21 October 2024 at a hotel in Dhaka, under  Strengthening Institutions, Policies, and Service (SIPS) project of UNDP, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). It brought together around fifty Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) from various organizations across Bangladesh, aiming to enhance collaboration among HRDs, media, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in promoting and protecting human rights.

Dr. Kamal Uddin Ahmed, Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), reaffirmed the commission's commitment to working with Human Rights Defenders (HRDs). He emphasized, "The NHRC is unwavering in its efforts to protect and promote human rights across Bangladesh. We acknowledge the vital role HRDs play and pledge to collaborate closely with you to ensure these rights are upheld for all."

"Human Rights Defenders play a critical role in protecting human rights, and UNDP is committed to supporting them. I urge all stakeholders to continue dialogue and collaboration to foster an environment where HRDs can carry out their work safely and effectively," said Anowarul Haq, Assistant Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh.

The consultation addressed various topics, including the definition of human rights, current and emerging human rights issues in Bangladesh, and violations by both state and non-state actors. Participants discussed the threats and challenges faced by Human Rights Defenders and examined the roles of the media, the National Human Rights Commission, and the state in supporting HRDs in their efforts to advance human rights.

The consultation concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to enhance the protection and promotion of human rights in Bangladesh through collaborative efforts among Human Rights Defenders, state institutions, civil society organizations, and the media. Participants included HRDs, officials from the NHRC, UNDP, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation.