A colorful rally and a discussion titled “Human Rights in Bangladesh’s Constitutional Reform Process: Bridging Theory and Practice” were held under the joint initiative of the United Nations and the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) on December 10, marking International Human Rights Day. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Our Rights, Our Future, Now.”
The discussion took place at the Liberation War Museum Auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Tuesday (December 10) at 10:30 AM, following a vibrant rally at 9:30 AM on Agargaon Shishu Mela Road.
Professor Muhammad Ekramul Haque, a member of the Interim Government’s Constitutional Reform Commission, attended the event as the chief guest. Distinguished guests included human rights activist Nur Khan Liton, Associate Professor Dr. Shahidul Islam from Jagannath University, HRSS Chairman Barrister Shahjada Al Amin Kabir, and social activist Syed Abdullah. The opening address was delivered by Ms. Huma Khan, Senior Human Rights Advisor of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, while Mr. Zahid Hossain, a Human Rights Officer from the same office, gave the closing remarks. The program was moderated by Md. Saiful Islam, Program Officer of HRSS.
Highlights of the Discussion
Chief Guest Professor Muhammad Ekramul Haque expressed gratitude toward the youth and general public who played pivotal roles in various movements, including those of 1952, 1971, 1990, and 2024. He stressed the need to incorporate youth perspectives into the constitution and highlighted the inviolable nature of human rights, emphasizing their ownership by individuals rather than as a favor from the state or the UN.
Human rights activist Nur Khan Liton reflected on the progress in celebrating Human Rights Day, attributing it to sacrifices made by countless individuals. He also criticized past governmental practices of suppression, including extrajudicial killings and political victimization, urging for a society where justice prevails over vengeance.
Dr. Shahidul Islam provided recommendations for constitutional reform, including revitalizing city governance, enhancing the independence of the Election Commission, and ensuring legal measures to curb political criminality. He advocated for direct elections of the President alongside reforms to balance power between the President and Prime Minister.
Social activist Syed Abdullah called for a change in mindset, emphasizing that human rights are inherent and cannot be violated or taken away. He urged citizens to stand against any breach of rights, even for individuals they dislike, illustrating this with examples from past governance and media practices.
HRSS Chairman Barrister Shahjada Al Amin Kabir presented HRSS’s proposals for constitutional reform to the Constitutional Reform Commission, advocating for rights-centric amendments.
The event also featured an interactive session with university students from across the country, facilitated by HRSS Executive Director Ejazul Islam.
Background
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948, recognizing universal and equal rights for all individuals, regardless of birthplace, race, religion, or socioeconomic status. This day has since been observed globally as International Human Rights Day to promote and protect human rights.
- Press Release
