The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Supreme Court of Bangladesh organized a Regional Seminar on Judicial Independence and Efficiency in Mymensingh today, continuing a series of discussions aimed at advancing justice sector reforms.

Dr. Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, Honorable Chief Justice of Bangladesh, was present as the Chief Guest. Ambassador Michael Miller, Head of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh, attended as the Special Guest, alongside Justice Farah Mahbub of the High Court Division. Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, delivered the welcome remarks.

In his address, Chief Justice Ahmed highlighted the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to enhance judicial independence, accountability, and efficiency. He reiterated the commitment to implementing a comprehensive roadmap for reforms, which has been gaining increased support from legal experts, development partners, and the public and called for all judges contribution to the reform process “I call on you judges to take charge of the reform process and ensure to bring about irreversible changes to lastingly ensure judicial independence, integrity and better access to justice.”

Stefan Liller reaffirmed UNDP’s dedication to strengthening the justice system, emphasizing a people-centred approach to judicial reforms. "Supporting access to justice for all people in Bangladesh, including the poor and marginalized, is a key priority in UNDP’s people-centred justice approach. It entails putting people, their aspirations, protection needs and demands at the centre of all justice reform efforts," he stated. He also commended the Chief Justice’s leadership in driving significant reform initiatives.

Ambassador Michael Miller underscored the longstanding partnership between the European Union and UNDP in supporting justice sector reforms.  "The European Union stands by Bangladesh. We are your long-standing partner, and our partnership is a strategic choice, with respect for fundamental rights at its core, alongside the creation of economic opportunity," the Ambassador said. "An independent judiciary is vital for fair and impartial justice, and the creation of a secretariate for judicial self-administration and ensure the separation of power.”  He further emphasised the importance of village courts,  a semi-formal dispute resolution system for marginalized communities.”

The regional seminar in Mymensingh provided a platform for discussions on key judicial reforms outlined in the Chief Justice’s roadmap, including strengthening judicial independence, reforming appointment systems, enhancing integrity and accountability, reducing case backlogs, expanding legal aid, and leveraging digitalization. The seminar marks another milestone in ongoing justice sector reforms, with upcoming discussions scheduled in Rangpur, Khulna, and Barishal.