Bangladesh far from achieving equality

The country is far from establishing equality and justice in society as it has never truly experienced democracy, said environment adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, at a discussion today, marking Human Rights Day.
"Though human rights are recognised on paper, the understanding of these rights differs greatly between the privileged and the underprivileged classes," she said at the event organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation at the NGO Affairs Bureau auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka.
People from indigenous communities, persons with disabilities, NGO workers, and numerous others participated in the discussion, raising various human rights concerns.
Rizwana, the chief guest, said, "While the masses are aware of their rights, we are far from having a responsive system."
She pointed out that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) lacks the empowerment to operate effectively.
"Our governments have always displayed an authoritarian tendency, showing reluctance to empower institutions or make them inclusive," she said.
Civil society, too, has been fragmented, hindering united resistance to oppression, she added.
Referring to violations of civil and political rights, including abductions and wrongful arrests, she said, "We have not been able to respond uniformly to such cases."
Rizwana also questioned the legitimacy of three consecutive elections, calling them fraudulent.
The adviser emphasised the need for constitutional safeguards to balance power and prevent one class from enjoying exclusive privileges while others are deprived.
She vowed to push for amendments to laws and policies to prevent activities harmful to the environment or human rights. "To achieve genuine human rights, we must remain vocal and proactive while ensuring supportive government policies," she said.
Shaheen Anam, executive director of MJF, stressed the need to eliminate human rights violations. "As we envision a new Bangladesh based on anti-discrimination movements, fundamental rights must always be protected," she said.
She said violence and hatred persist because the principles of international human rights have not been fully embraced in society. "We need to nurture a mindset of accepting differences from an early age," she added.
She also criticised the NHRC for being ineffective and called on civil society to be more vocal against violations. "Had we stood firmly, the scale of atrocities could have been reduced," she said.
Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks highlighted structural barriers such as stereotypes and limited access to resources as key factors behind inequality. "We need a civic space where people can share opinions and exercise fundamental freedoms," he said.
He called for greater transparency and accountability in governance.
Corinne Henchoz Pignani, Chargée d'Affaires of the Swiss Embassy, urged patience while working towards a fairer society.
"Right now might be challenging, but don't lose the vision," she said, referencing the Human Rights Day slogan: Our rights, our future, right now.
Sara Hossain, executive director of BLAST, emphasised the unique challenges faced by the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
"The CHT has distinct characteristics, and its policies require a unique approach," she said. Unresolved court proceedings are stalling progress in the region, she added.
Prof Sharmind Neelormi of Jahangirnagar University and a member of the White Paper Commission also spoke at the event.
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