UNDP, Norway sign deal to support justice reforms in Bangladesh
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Norway signed an agreement on 17 March 2026 at the Embassy of Norway to support justice sector reform in Bangladesh.
The initiative, titled "Consolidating Justice Reforms for Long-Term Stability and Economic Growth in Bangladesh 2026", aims to strengthen judicial independence, enhance the operational readiness of the Supreme Court Secretariat, and advance long-term reforms to improve public trust and democratic governance.
The agreement was signed by UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller and Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen.
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Under the partnership, UNDP and Norway will support infrastructure development and provide essential equipment needed to operationalise the Supreme Court Secretariat. The initiative will also help build the capacity of newly appointed secretariat staff through specialised training to strengthen judicial self-administration.
In addition, the project will convene dialogues involving the judiciary, government, legal professionals, academia and civil society to promote greater understanding of and support for judicial independence.
Speaking at the signing, Stefan Liller said, "Bangladesh has made significant progress in strengthening the justice sector, from establishing the Supreme Court Secretariat to advancing merit-based judicial appointments and expanding citizen-focused services. This new partnership with Norway will help translate these reforms into sustained institutional practice."
Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen said, "Judicial independence is essential for democratic governance, economic stability and public confidence. Norway is pleased to support Bangladesh in consolidating the important reforms already underway – reforms that modernise court administration, strengthen accountability, and improve dispute resolution for both citizens and businesses."
He added, "We believe this initiative will make a meaningful contribution to long-term stability, stronger institutions, and a justice system that people can trust."
Through the agreement, UNDP and Norway said they were reaffirming their commitment to advancing justice sector reforms and strengthening the rule of law as a foundation for sustainable development and democratic governance in Bangladesh.
