Special attention given to the marginalised, climate change, preventing violence against women: Rizwana

The interim government is giving special attention to protecting the human rights of marginalised people, addressing climate change and preventing violence against women, Environment, Forest, Climate Change and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said.

"Human rights are the people's rights. The interim government is working inclusively for all communities," she said today (15 December) joining virtually a discussion titled "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation at the NGO Affairs Bureau Bangladesh auditorium, in observance of the International Human Rights Day.

She also stressed concerted efforts by the government and NGOs for the welfare of the people and constructive criticism of the government by the public. "Before demanding transparency from NGOs, the government itself must be transparent."

Barrister Sara Hossain, executive director of the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust and member of the Human Rights Forum, underscored the need for more localised action in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, where specific legal frameworks exist for indigenous communities. 

"Local communities must raise their voices. Disability laws are being addressed, but the judiciary must become more proactive. Those working with the law must ensure its implementation."

Sharmind Neelormi, a member of the White Paper Commission and professor at Jahangirnagar University, said women face increased inequalities due to climate change. "Protecting the human rights of marginalised individuals, including persons with disabilities, indigenous communities, and coastal populations, is essential."

Anwar Hossain, acting director general of the NGO Affairs Bureau Bangladesh, said through proper enforcement of the law, the rights of marginalised communities can be upheld. 

Sweden's Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks reaffirmed his government's commitment to upholding the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. "We believe that implementing the Declaration can ensure the rights of all marginalized groups, paving the way for a society founded on equality."

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is an international document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly that enshrines the rights and freedoms of all human beings.

Corinne Henchoz Pignani, Chargés d'affaires at the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, said, "Now is the time to raise our voices for rights. Regardless of religion or ethnicity, everyone must speak up fearlessly for their rights."

She also called for collective action to achieve SDGs 5 [gender equality] and 16 [peace, justice, and strong institutions].

In her closing remarks, Manusher Jonno Foundation Executive Director Shaheen Anam said during the anti-discrimination movement, numerous human rights violations occurred, including the indiscriminate killing of ordinary students and citizens. 

"In the new Bangladesh born out of the anti-discrimination movement, no one's human rights should be violated."

The event was attended by over 300 representatives from development organisations, persons with disabilities, indigenous groups, transgender individuals, Dalits, coastal community representatives, and youth. They presented a set of recommendations for the implementation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Manusher Jonno Foundation plans to compile and submit to the interim government.