[🇧🇩] Reforms carried out by the interim/future Govts.

[Saif]

Electoral reforms: Commission proposes referendum and representative recall system

The Electoral Reform Commission has proposed introducing a referendum system to gauge public opinion on critical state decisions and a recall system to remove elected representatives from the National Parliament. These recommendations are included in the commission’s full report alongside ot

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Electoral reforms: Commission proposes referendum and representative recall system
bdnews24.com
Published :
Feb 08, 2025 23:37
Updated :
Feb 08, 2025 23:37

The Electoral Reform Commission has proposed introducing a referendum system to gauge public opinion on critical state decisions and a recall system to remove elected representatives from the National Parliament.

These recommendations are included in the commission’s full report alongside other electoral reform proposals. The report suggests that the referendum provision be introduced in the next parliament and the recall mechanism for MPs be implemented in national elections.

On Saturday, the full report was published on the Cabinet Division’s website. Earlier, on Jan 15, the commission submitted the report to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, and a summary was shared with journalists.

KEY RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Abolishing EVMs - Electronic Voting Machines

• Cancelling uncontested elections

• Reintroducing the "No Vote" option in general elections

• Invalidating elections where "No Vote" receives the majority

• Re-election if voter turnout is below 40 per cent]

• Limiting the prime minister’s tenure to two terms through constitutional amendments

• Reinstating the caretaker government system

• Introducing online voting

The latest additions to these recommendations include referendums and MP recall mechanisms.

REFERENDUM: A TOOL FOR PUBLIC OPINION

The report defines a referendum as a method to directly seek public opinion on crucial state decisions, a practice adopted by many countries. Referendums have been held worldwide on matters like constitutional amendments, major legislation, and international treaties.

Bangladesh previously held referendums in 1977, 1985, and 1991, although the 1972 Constitution did not include a referendum provision. It was introduced in 1979 by General Ziaur Rahman through the Fifth Amendment.

However, in 1991, the 12th Amendment repealed the referendum provisions for Articles 58, 80, and 90(A). Later, in 2011, the Awami League government’s 15th Amendment fully abolished the referendum mechanism under Article 142.

HIGH COURT RULING & LEGAL IMPLICATIONS

Following the fall of the Awami League government due to mass protests, the High Court reinstated the referendum provision on Dec 17, 2024, by striking down the previous constitutional amendment.

However, legal experts question whether the ruling automatically restores the provision. According to Section 6 of the General Clauses Act, any repealed law must be re-enacted by parliament for it to be legally revived.

REPRESENTATIVE RECALL SYSTEM

The commission has recommended introducing a recall system for members of parliament, or MPs.

However, to avoid unnecessary expenses and political instability, it has proposed that recalls should not be applicable in the first and last year of an MP’s tenure.

How the Recall Process Would Work

The report outlines the recall mechanism as follows:

• A petition must be submitted to the Election Commission with the signatures of at least one-third of the total voters in the respective constituency.

• The petition must clearly state the reasons for recall and include voter signatures. The Election Commission will then evaluate the request and make a decision.

• If a majority (51%) of the voters in the constituency support the recall in a vote, the elected representative will be removed from office.

WHY A RECALL SYSTEM?

The report notes that in Bangladesh’s current electoral system, elected representatives lack direct accountability to voters between elections. If an MP fails to perform, breaks their oath, fails to fulfil promises, or engages in corruption, the public has no effective way to express dissatisfaction before the next election.

A recall system could serve as an interim solution to this issue, allowing citizens to hold their representatives accountable before their full-term ends.

CONCERNS AND RISKS

However, the report warns that a recall system could lead to political instability, with frequent recall attempts disrupting governance, misuse by political opponents to weaken rivals, and increased government expenditure if too many recall elections are triggered.

The report also highlights allegations of electoral fraud under the Awami League government, including vote-rigging, ballot-stuffing, seizing polling stations, and pre-casting votes on election night.

In addition, the Awami League government faced widespread allegations of corruption and money laundering, authoritarian governance, and serious human rights violations.

After the fall of the Awami League government, the interim administration formed six reform commissions in Oct 2024, including the Electoral Reform Commission, to address governance and institutional failures.

OTHER KEY RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE COMMISSION

The Electoral Reform Commission, led by Badiul Alam Majumdar, has recommended amending the Constitution to:

• Limit the prime minister’s tenure to a maximum of two terms

• Establish an Upper House (Senate) with 100 seats

• Bar a two-term prime minister from running for president

• Prohibit one individual from simultaneously holding the positions of party chief, prime minister, and leader of parliament

UPPER HOUSE (SENATE) FORMATION

The commission proposes forming the Upper House based on proportional representation, where seats will be allocated according to a party’s vote share in national elections.

The seat distribution would be:

• 50 percent from party members

• 50 percent from non-partisan groups, including civil society, academics, scientists, social workers, labour representatives, women’s rights activists, cultural figures, and marginalised communities

On top of that, at least 30 percent of both party-affiliated and independent Senate members must be women.

To qualify for Upper House seats, a party must secure at least 3% of the total votes in the national elections.

Lower House Expansion and Women’s Representation

• Increase the number of parliamentary seats from 300 to 400

• Reserve 100 seats for women, to be elected through a rotational system, ensuring they compete directly from designated constituencies

Presidential Election Reform

The commission recommends that the president be elected through an Electoral College composed of:

• Members of both houses of parliament

• Elected representatives from local governments

CARETAKER GOVERNMENT SYSTEM

The Awami League government abolished the caretaker government system through the 15th Amendment to the Constitution, leading to three national elections under elected governments.

The commission suggests restoring the caretaker government with a fixed four-month tenure, during which it would:

• Conduct both national and local elections

• Oversee legal and administrative reforms to ensure fair, non-partisan, and credible elections

A National Constitutional Council, or NCC, should nominate the caretaker government’s chief, who would then appoint 20 advisors.

If an NCC is not formed, the commission proposed that a high-level committee, including political parties, experts, and civil society representatives, and draft a framework for the caretaker government, which should be approved and implemented by parliament.

Local Government Elections

• Hold local elections before national elections

• Make local elections non-partisan by amending electoral laws

Political Party Regulations

New political parties must have offices in at least 10 per cent of districts and 5 per cent of Upazilas. They must have a minimum of 5,000 registered members

The commission is in favour of removing the rule that cancels a party’s registration if it fails to contest two consecutive elections.

It advocates for bringing registered political parties under the Right to Information -RTI- Act.

VOTING RIGHTS FOR OVERSEAS BANGLADESHIS

The commission proposes introducing postal voting for expatriate Bangladeshis, allowing overseas voters registered in the voter list and National ID, or NID, database by Oct 2025 to vote in the next national election

It also recommends developing an online voting system to modernise elections.

The commission held 64 meetings, 22 consultations with stakeholders, and collected feedback from 9,752 individuals until Dec 31, 2024.

On Oct 3, 2024, the interim government formed six reform commissions, including the Electoral Reform Commission, with Badiul Alam Majumdar as chair.

The commission was initially scheduled to submit its report by Dec 31, 2024, but was granted an extension until Jan 15, 2025. The full report was published on Jan 20.​

 

[Saif]

Six reform commissions’ reports made public Saturday

The full reports of the Electoral Reform Commission, Police Reform Commission, Judiciary Reform Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission Reform Commission, Public Administration Reform Commission, and Constitutional Reform Commission (Part One) were published on the website of the Cabinet Division...

www.newagebd.net

Six reform commissions’ reports made public Saturday
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 08 February, 2025, 20:22

Representational image. | UNB Photo

The full reports of the Electoral Reform Commission, Police Reform Commission, Judiciary Reform Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission Reform Commission, Public Administration Reform Commission, and Constitutional Reform Commission (Part One) were published on the website of the Cabinet Division (https://cabinet.gov.bd/) on Saturday.

A press conference is being held at the Foreign Service Academy to discuss the urgent issues recommended by these commissions.

Earlier, the reports of the Constitutional Reform Commission, Electoral Reform Commission, Police Administration Reform Commission, and Anti-Corruption Commission Reform Commission were submitted on January 15.

Later, on February 5, the reports of the Public Administration Reform Commission and the Judiciary Reform Commission were submitted to the chief adviser.

Five commissions, except for the Constitutional Reform Commission, were formed on October 3 of last year.

The Constitutional Reform Commission was formed on October 6.

All the commissions were given 90 days to submit their reports, and later, that time was extended several times.​

 

[Saif]

Five reform commissions set to miss deadline

Five reform commissions on health, women affairs, mass media, labour and local government are going to ask for more time as they are set to miss the deadline for submitting their reports to the interim government chief Adviser Muhmannad Yunus today.

www.newagebd.net

Five reform commissions set to miss deadline
Staff Correspondent 16 February, 2025, 00:31

Five reform commissions on health, women affairs, mass media, labour and local government are going to ask for more time as they are set to miss the deadline for submitting their reports to the interim government chief Adviser Muhmannad Yunus today.

Formed on November 18 by separate gazette notifications, the five reform commissions were assigned to submit their reports within 90 days or February 16, 2025. Several members of the commissions informed New Age on Saturday that they would seek a deadline extension up to mid-March.

They said that some of the commissions were yet to finalise their draft recommendations until Saturday.

Health sector reform commission chief Professor AK Azad Khan, said, ‘We are planning to submit the commission report by mid-March.’ The commission was formed to recommend necessary reforms to make the country’s healthcare system people-oriented, accessible and universal.

The labour sector reform commission also would request the government to allow at least one month more for finish preparing the full report aiming at ensuring labour rights and welfare, said its chief Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed.

‘We will prepare the summary of our recommendations and submit it to the interim government by February 28,’ he said.

The local government reform commission was formed to gather recommendations on strengthening the effectiveness of local governance with its chief Professor Tofail Ahmed said on Saturday that the full report would take more time to finish.

He, however, added that the commission was working hard to prepare a summary to give it to interim government by February 21.

‘Discussions with political parties have started. We think our recommendations on local government reforms will be crucial in the discussions,’ he said.

The interim government formed the women affairs reform commission to generate necessary recommendations regarding women’s participation in all spheres and their empowerment. Meanwhile, the mass media reform commission was formed to recommend necessary steps to make mass media independent, strong and objective.

Mass media reform commission chief Kamal Ahmed and women affairs reform commission member Nirupa Dewan said that the commissions would not be able to complete their reports before the last week of February.

Following the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina-led regime on August 5, the interim government announced full-fledged reform commissions for the judiciary, electoral system, police, public administration and the Anti-Corruption Commission on October 3 last year. A full-fledged constitution reform commission was announced on October 7.

All the commissions of the first round, having their deadlines extended, submitted their full reports on January 15. The reports were made public on February 8.​

 

[Saif]

Reform commission to seek change in laws discriminatory towards women

Although the constitution talks about equality, inequality still persists in society. In order to eliminate these inequalities the women’s affairs reform commission is going to recommend changes to the constitution and to the laws.

en.prothomalo.com

Reform commission to seek change in laws discriminatory towards women
The reform commission will submit their report to the chief adviser at the end of this current month.

Naznin Akhter
Dhaka
Updated: 15 Feb 2025, 18: 54

Women and human rights organisations have long been demanding a uniform family law through which women of all religions will have equal rights of inheritance, child custody, marriage and divorce.

Although the constitution talks about equality, inequality still persists in society. Even political parties haven't taken any step to remove this inequality. In order to eliminate these inequalities the women’s affairs reform commission is going to recommend changes to the constitution and to the laws.

Major recommendations are expected such as permitting women equal rights in property ownership, guardianship and custody of children, marriage and divorce alongside closing the scope for marrying off minor girls (below 18 years) through special provisions in case of child marriage, and extending maternity leave to six months, enjoyed by government official and employees, for the female workers as well.

The Representation of the People Order (RPO) had the goal of ensuring 33 per cent women representation in the committees formed on every level by political parties registered with the Election Commission by 2020. The parties had also promised to fulfill the condition while getting registered in 2008 but, they could not fulfill it within the stipulated time.

Reportedly, the recommendation of the women’s reforms commission may advise more than 40 per cent or equal representation of women alongside suggesting 100 reserved seats for women in the national parliament in line with the recommendation of the constitution reform commission and holding direct elections in those seats.

Now the RPO has been revised to meet that target by 2030. Reportedly, the recommendation of the women’s reforms commission may advise more than 40 per cent or equal representation of women alongside suggesting 100 reserved seats for women in the national parliament in line with the recommendation of the constitution reform commission and holding direct elections in those seats.

The members who are there on the women’s affairs reform commission have also carried out movement on this issue at different times. They say that they will try to ensure that the interim government makes at least some changes before leaving.

Chief of the women’s affairs reform commission Shirin Parveen Haque told Prothom Alo, “We will seek to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women in the constitution, in the laws and in various programmes of the government. Towards that end, we will submit our recommendations to the chief advisor at the end of this month.”

“There will be some recommendations for the interim government and some recommendations for the future government. This commission is the result of the anti-discrimination movement. So, recommendations will be made to eliminate all forms of discrimination there are in women’s lives,” she added.

However, she did not want to give details about exactly what’s in the draft recommendations at the moment before finalising the recommendations. Shirin Parveen Haque said they have held 13 meetings with various stakeholders inside Dhaka and 7 meetings in different districts outside of Dhaka.

Before the formation of the women’s affairs reform commission, different organisations of women met with chief advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus on 20 August last year and made several recommendations there. Founding member of women’s organisation ‘Naripokkho’, Shirin Parveen Haque was at the leadership level in the discussion at that time.

It was recommended there to establish a women’s rights commission instead of working on various issues involving women in a scattered way. The women organisations proposed to set up the women’s rights commission, mentioning that commissions like the Right to Information Commission and the National Human Rights Commission failed to fulfill the responsibilities they were supposed to fulfill falling under pressure during the party government.

There will be some recommendations for the interim government and some recommendations for the future government. This commission is the result of the anti-discrimination movement. So, recommendations will be made to eliminate all forms of discrimination there are in women’s lives---Shirin Parveen Haque, Chief of the women’s affairs reform commission

When asked whether those recommendations made earlier would be included in the upcoming recommendation of the women’s affairs reform commission, Shirin Haque said, “They might be there.”

Reportedly, the heads of six reform commissions out of the ten formed by the interim government have already submitted their reports to the chief adviser. The women’s affairs reform commission is also looking into how women’s affairs have been placed in those reports.

Legal obstructions towards equality

Various articles of the 1972 constitution of Bangladesh, such as 19(1), 19(3), 28(1), and 28(2), protect equality and equal participation of women in all spheres under universal principles. While the constitution speaks of equal participation in state and public spheres, it recognises religious laws as well when it comes to family law. Matters like marriage, divorce, guardianship and custody of children as well as inheritance are controlled by the family laws.

Although Bangladesh approved the international ‘Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)’ in 1984, it retained reservations on articles 2 and 16.1(C).

Article 2 of the convention states that parties shall take legislative and administrative measures and reform their laws to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women. And, article 16.1(C) states that men and women have the same rights and responsibilities during marriage and at its dissolution. No government has withdrawn reservation on these two articles.

Bangladesh Mahila Parishad president Fauzia Moslem told Prothom Alo that after the Awami League government came to power in 1996, it adopted the national women’s development policy in 1997. That policy had talked about equal rights for women in all sectors, including property ownership. But, when the BNP-Jamaat-led four-party alliance came to power in 2001, it canceled that policy. The women’s policy formulated by the four-party alliance government did not include equal rights to property.

After the Awami League government came to power again in 2009, it adopted a new woman’s policy retaining equal rights from the previous one through discussions with the women organisations. However, they backed down from that stance later. Since then, until its deposition in the face student-public uprising in August 2024, the Awami League government did not show any interest of making any changes to the issues of inequality in the family laws, she added.

Fauzia Moslem reinstated that the Mahila Parishad supports the initiative to change all the laws and programmes that discriminate against women. The Mahila Parishad has long been demanding to ensure a uniform family law for citizens of all religions in the country. Even this time, in a meeting with the women’s affairs reform commission, the organisation sought equal rights in property, divorce, and guardianship of children. It also demanded the formation of adoption law and equal rights for women in that.

Fauzia Moslem believes that women as citizens should have equal rights in their personal lives. Otherwise, no matter how high a woman climbs she still does not have any dignity. Due to this lack of dignity, men consider women subordinate to them and there are various incidents of violence. If this women right is ensured in their personal lives, violence against women will decrease as well.

They have demanded the number of seats in the national parliament to be increased to 400 with 150 seats reserved for women and direct elections in those seats to ensure women’s political rights, said Fauzia Moslem.

The cabinet division issued a notification regarding the formation of a 10-member women’s affairs reform commission on 18 November last year. Other members of the commission headed by Shirin Parveen Haque are- senior fellow at BRAC Institute of Governance and Development Maheen Sultan, Bangladesh National Women Lawyers’ Association president Fawzia Karim Firoze, Bangladesh Garment and Industrial Workers Federation president Kalpona Akter, women’s health expert Halida Hanum Akhter, Bangladesh Nari Sramik Kendra executive director Sumaiya Islam, former member of the National Human Rights Commission Nirupa Dewan, Naripokkho director Kamrun Nahar, senior social development adviser at Asian Development Bank Ferdousi Sultana, and student representative Nishita Zaman Niha.​

 

[Saif]

Can we bridge the generational gap and reform our democracy?

Now, the youngsters have embarked on a campaign to reach out to the people in preparation for forming a new political party.

www.thedailystar.net

Can we bridge the generational gap and reform our democracy?

What appears to have exasperated the old-line political class is that young students succeeded where they had failed. VISUAL: MAHIYA TABASSUM

Are we witnessing a clash between the worldview and values of Gen-Z and the pre-millennial generations in our journey towards democracy? If so, what are the implications as the interim government completes six months of its tenure and begins consultations on the various reform commissions' recommendations? How will the aim of building a broad consensus on reforms and charting the roadmap for the next phase of the journey work out?

Political parties of different stripes, in slightly varying tones, have been impatiently clamouring for a parliamentary election as early as possible after "essential reforms" so that the winners can take control of the government. The mention of "essential reforms" appears to be a nod to public demand for reform in public institutions and services. Noticeably, the political class is not asking for nationwide local government elections that could restore many essential local government services and let citizens engage in a political process. Nor do they ask for the election of a constituent assembly to settle constitutional and governance structure issues.

What appears to have exasperated the old-line political class is that young students succeeded where they had failed. The student-led uprising toppled the authoritarian regime, which had appeared to be invincible and set to continue indefinitely. The political parties' 15-year struggle to unseat it had not brought the masses behind them as the students' movement did—no doubt helped by the unprecedented brutality of the regime in repressing the protesters.

Success has many claimants to paternity, while failure is an orphan. The political parties claim that they had prepared the ground over the years and that the student movement was merely the spark that ignited the fire. There is truth in this narrative, but the fact remains that the students were the vanguard at the critical stage. The political parties are reluctant to admit that their earlier efforts did not bring success. For that matter, they have not shown any contrition for their collective responsibility, beyond that of the Awami League, for the faltering democratic journey of the country since liberation.

Now, the youngsters have embarked on a campaign to reach out to the people in preparation for forming a new political party. They aim to change the political culture of intolerance, division, polarisation, and the absence of accountability that has dominated the political scene since the birth of Bangladesh. This initiative has provoked ambivalent, if not outright negative reactions from some political parties.

Political old-timers say they have no objection to a new party of the young, but many betray their nervousness by denigrating this effort, sometimes offering contradictory reasoning. Three lines of argument are deployed by them: students must remain students, they are too inexperienced to handle politics, and a king's party is not acceptable. How can immature youngsters make policies and run the country? Since three of the "student coordinators" of the movement are in the government, a new party of young people would be a "king's party" that would compromise the interim government's neutrality vis-à-vis the national election.

The generational divide is evident in the public dialogue on political transition, the performance of the interim government, and what should happen next. The known faces in the talk-show circuit in electronic media and columnists and commentators in print media—mostly pre-millennials and millennials—betray their generational bias.

The talking heads on television are often the protagonists of one or another existing political party, along with some familiar faces from the media and civil society. Largely outnumbered by their older counterparts, the young representatives of the July-August movement, when invited to participate, are usually articulate in their arguments and clear in expressing their goals and plans. Often, the effort in the shows to offer diversity of views ends up being an argument between the young and the rest.

The young speakers generally take the position that the sacrifice of July-August was not just to have an election and hand over the government to the winning political party/parties without at least beginning a process of political and institutional reforms and forging a broadly unified vision for the journey towards democracy. The other side, with minor variations, argues that the reform agenda can and should be handled by a "political" government (meaning themselves). They also assert that the interim government has been inept in addressing immediate day-to-day problems, such as improving law and order and controlling prices. They claim that the people want an early parliamentary election (but presumably not a local government election). They insist that political parties are in touch with the people and speak for them. It is evident that they are not in touch with the Gen-Z population, which makes up at least a third of the country's voters.

The anchors of talk shows are reluctant to challenge the often vacuous and self-serving assertions of political parties and older-generation pundits. The anchors themselves often appear sympathetic to the positions taken by the elders. Columnists, editorial writers in print media, and op-ed article writers, beyond rhetorical words about harnessing the energy and idealism of youth in nation-building, are at best ambivalent about the position presented by the young and the role they may play in shaping the country's future.

Prof Muhammad Yunus has always upheld the role of young people in his vision for development and his expectations for the future of Bangladesh. He described the students as his "employer" because they invited and persuaded him to take on the task of heading the interim government. Introducing Mahfuj Alam, one of the three youth representatives in the advisory council, to former US President Bill Clinton at an event in New York, Yunus described Mahfuj as the "mastermind" of the movement. I doubt that anyone in the audience took it literally to mean that Mahfuj singlehandedly orchestrated the fall of the Hasina regime. Yunus, in his usual effusive and generous way, had used a rhetorical expression. Talk shows and social media in Bangladesh were abuzz with discussions about Yunus being too deferential and submissive to students.

In an interview with The Financial Times at the World Economic Forum in Davos, speaking about events in Bangladesh, Yunus spoke of young participants in the anti-discrimination movement reaching out to the masses, preparing to form a political party of their own. He thought this might help bring about a much-needed change in the political culture of Bangladesh. Old-school politicians pounced on Yunus for being partial to the presumptive new party and questioned the interim government's ability to run a national election impartially. They ignore the work underway to empower the election commission to conduct elections independently, without government interference.

All stakeholders—Gen-Z and the rest—talk about the need for unity to move forward in our democratic journey. All seem to agree that a unified vision of basic goals and the steps to be taken is necessary. But with the divergent views of the young and the old regarding priorities and processes, how can these differences be reconciled? A realistic aim may be to forge a common understanding of the rules of the game regarding dialogue and, as much as possible, to reconcile the diverging visions by agreeing on a minimum common agenda of reforms that the interim government could initiate and that a future elected government could continue.

As discussions on the various reform commissions begin, the focus may be on the rules of engagement for all stakeholders—political parties, civil society, Gen-Z, and anti-discrimination activists—and the minimum common agenda for reforms. A part of this process would be the preparation of the July proclamation. The interim government seems eager to be involved, presumably to help minimise the generational divide, in formulating the July proclamation as a testament to the July-August uprising.

Nationwide local government elections at the union and upazila levels would allow citizens to engage in the political process and improve local services, which have become nonfunctional since the disbanding of local councils.

An agreement to hold an election for a constituent assembly within three months would start the process of settling constitutional and state structure questions with citizen participation. The adoption of a constitution would then pave the way for parliamentary elections, with its structure and character (bicameral, proportional representation, women's representation, etc) determined as prescribed in the newly adopted constitution. This step-by-step process would allow the necessary time and deliberation for the far-reaching reforms envisioned, helping to bridge the generational divide.

Dr Manzoor Ahmed is professor emeritus at Brac University, chair of the Bangladesh ECD Network (BEN), and adviser to Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE).​

 

[Saif]

Key governance reforms needed for a fairer Bangladesh

While stabilising the economy is a priority, the roots of Bangladesh’s recent turmoil lie in a crisis of governance.

www.thedailystar.net

Key governance reforms needed for a fairer Bangladesh

FILE VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR

Bangladesh has gone through several political transitions since its independence in 1971. Caretaker or interim governments in the past have often delivered important institutional reforms. The present team under Professor Mohammad Yunus is no exception. But to meet the expectations of Bangladeshis during this short window, a focused reform agenda is required.

Bangladesh has come far in the past 53 years, but its economic engines were starting to sputter in the aftermath of Covid and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Recent data revisions suggest growth was considerably lower than previously estimated, while substantial capital flight weakened the financial sector's health. Add to this the continuous loss in international reserves during the 2022-24 period and persistently high inflation, and the economy by mid-2024 was not in the best of health.

With the move to a crawling peg exchange rate, the tightening of monetary policy, the alignment of prudential standards with international norms, the launch of an asset quality review, and the appointment of independent boards for several of the troubled banks, the Bangladesh Bank has already taken important steps to regain macroeconomic and financial stability. These should now be completed with the introduction of a robust bank resolution framework that gives the central bank the tools necessary to intervene in failing banks, enforce capital requirements, and, importantly, protect depositors.

While stabilising the economy is a priority, the roots of Bangladesh's recent turmoil lie in a crisis of governance. The interim government is pursuing a programme that can be described as one of full transparency and wide consultation to help put in place the rules and institutions needed to secure a fairer Bangladesh for the next generation. In the economic sphere, three priorities stand out:

First, today, the government loses a massive seven percent of GDP annually (about 3.5 lakh crore taka) from tax breaks awarded in non-transparent and arbitrary ways. While some tax incentives are justified, they should only be granted after a due process. Bangladesh does not have such a process and unsurprisingly has one of the highest rates of tax exemptions in the world. Transferring the authority to approve tax policy from the National Bureau of Revenues to the parliament, as is the case in almost all other countries globally, and separating tax policy from tax administration, are foundational reforms to ensure everyone pays their fair share.

The governance of public finances can also be strengthened by disclosing the winners and ownership of government contracts and granting independence to the Office of Comptroller and Auditor General. In the area of social assistance, the creation of a dynamic, unified social registry to better target welfare programmes is a positive step in the direction of greater transparency.

Second, lax regulation of banks allowed connected groups to secure loans that greatly increased the risks to banks. The Bangladesh Bank should require all banks to check and disclose their ultimate owners and borrowers and the links between them to manage risks.

In parallel, with the help of the international community, Bangladesh is working to recover some of the assets it believes were illicitly transferred out of the country. With a properly regulated banking system, the foundation would be laid for attracting additional investment into the sector, reducing the large stock of non-performing loans and rebooting private sector credit for growth and job creation.

Third, digital and data revolution offers great opportunities to strengthen public sector governance and service delivery. Reforms to bolster the quality and independence of the statistics system are under preparation. These could be complemented with the creation of a digital public infrastructure to make the public administration more transparent, user-friendly and efficient, following the example of other developing countries from Brazil to Estonia and Indonesia to India. Bangladesh—the country with the second largest population of digital gig workers—should not be far behind. A modern data protection framework, creating an interoperable digital payment system for mobile financial transactions, the creation of a unified digital ID system, and a consent-based data sharing framework could be priorities, as recommended by the task force on re-strategising the economy.

In strengthening the governance of public finances, the financial system and the administration of data and statistics, the interim government would leave a strong economic legacy on which all future elected governments could build.

Martin Raiser is vice president for the South Asia Region of the World Bank.​

 

[Saif]

Next govt should continue financial sector reform, bring back laundered money: Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur said the next government should continue the reform process in the banking sector and continue the interim government's initiatives to try and bring back laundered money. Regarding bringing back the laundered money, the governor said, "No country has been

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Next govt should continue financial sector reform, bring back laundered money: Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur
UNB
Published :
Feb 21, 2025 00:12
Updated :
Feb 21, 2025 00:12

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur said the next government should continue the reform process in the banking sector and continue the interim government's initiatives to try and bring back laundered money.

Regarding bringing back the laundered money, the governor said, "No country has been able to bring back the laundered money in less than five years. We are trying. If this government is not able to do so, the next government should take this programme forward consistently."

He said this while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar on 'Macroeconomic Landscape: Challenges in the Banking Sector and the Path Ahead' held at the Economic Reporters Forum (ERF) auditorium in Paltan Tower, Dhaka, on Thursday.

The special guests at the seminar organised by ERF were Professor Dr. Mostafizur Rahman, Honorary Fellow of the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD), and Mohammad Ali, Managing Director of Pubali Bank.

The governor said there are many challenges in the economy. However, there is no reason to worry about foreign exchange and reserves, he added. The decline in reserves has been stopped to some extent. Not a single penny has come from the IMF. But remittances have increased by 24 per cent. This month, it will cross 30 per cent.

In this fiscal year, remittances will cross $30 billion. The main reason for this is that money laundering has been prevented, he said.

Dr. Mansur also said, no dollars are being sold from Bangladesh Bank now. There is almost no difference in the dollar rate in the bank and the curb market.

Claiming that the remittance rate is not being manipulated, the governor said, a group in Dubai tried to manipulate the dollar. But the central bank was not affected by it.

He also said, private sector credit growth has decreased due to the decline in deposit growth. It is not because of the increase in policy rates. Government debt has decreased from 12 per cent to 9.0 per cent. Now banks will have to lend to the private sector.

"The days of lending to government and making profits are coming to an end. Banks have to make profits by lending," he pointed out.

The governor talked about reforming the banking sector, especially Bangladesh Bank.

He said, if a single family takes 87 per cent of a bank's money, it takes time for that bank to stand. Despite all this, Islamic banks have turned around. They have started giving loans. This happened mainly due to gaining the trust of depositors.

Regarding inflation, the governor said, inflation did not happen in a day. It takes at least 18 months to implement it after tightening the policy. In our case, it has been six to seven months. It will take at least another five months to see a good effect. We have still kept the monetary policy in a contractionary position.

The governor said that the central bank has taken many steps to reform the banking sector in Bangladesh after August 5. He said the exchange rate of foreign currencies is now much more stable. The real effective exchange rate is also good. The remittance flow is also good.

Regarding the changing the narrative of LDC graduation, the governor said, "No country in our group is now in the LDC category. Bangladesh has achieved the capacity to go to LDC in 2021. But under the pressure of our country's industrial sector, we extended the LDC transition time to 2026."

"There are many good aspects of graduation. There is no honour in being poor. Why can't we become a middle-income country? We are a middle-income country. Why should we remain a low-income country for tariff benefits?" he kept questioning.

ERF President Daulat Akhtar Mala delivered the welcome speech at the seminar. The programme was moderated by ERF's Joint Secretary Manik Muntasir.​

 

[Saif]

LOCAL GOVT REFORM: 2 uniform laws suggested

The Local Government Reform Commission has submitted a primary report to the government, recommending a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s local government system.

www.newagebd.net

LOCAL GOVT REFORM: 2 uniform laws suggested
Staff Correspondent 23 February, 2025, 00:38

- Local body polls possible in June: commission

- 84pc people want independent local govt commission: BBS

The Local Government Reform Commission has submitted a primary report to the government, recommending a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s local government system.

The reform commissions in its preliminary report also suggested two uniform laws for local government bodies and said that holding elections to all local government bodies simultaneously in June was possible.

The preliminary report along with a household survey report was published by the chief adviser’s press wing on Saturday.

The proposals aim to streamline governance, address legal complexities, and enhance the effectiveness of local governance in Bangladesh.

The preliminary report highlighted the current state of local government institutions in Bangladesh, which operate under a three-tier structure – the Union Parishads, the Upazila Parishads and Zila Parishads, as well as the municipalities and city corporations.

The report noted that, after the July mass uprising, local government institutions had been effectively non-operational, leaving a significant governance gap.

In this context, the commission said that simultaneous elections for all local government institutions by June 2025 were possible.

The commission recommended to merge the five laws for local government elections into two uniform laws-- one for Union Parishad, Upazila Parisahd and Zila Parishad and the other for municipalities and city corporations.

It said that the two unified laws can be introduced through an ordinance between March and April this year.

The elections for local government bodies in both plain lands and hilly areas may be conducted by June 2025, the commission said.

However, this will be possible only if a consensus is reached between the government, political parties, and the Election Commission, it said.

The commission led by retired professor Tofail Ahmed suggested simplifying the administrative procedures through these unified laws to reduce redundancy, improve coordination, and ease the election process.

The proposed reforms also advocated for a shift toward a parliamentary-style system within local government institutions.

This approach is intended to decentralise power further and ensure that local governance structures are more responsive to community needs, the commission said.

It suggested that local government bodies should operate similarly to the national parliamentary system,

with clear distinctions between legislative and executive roles.

The legislative aspect would be led by a ‘Sabhadhyakha,’ akin to the Speaker of the National Parliament, while the executive arm would be headed by a chairman or a mayor.

A key element of the proposed reforms is the establishment of a five-member permanent Local Government Commission by giving constitutional recognition.

This commission would oversee the implementation of the reform measures and ensure that local government structures are strengthened.

The report also proposed the creation of a ‘Local Government Service,’ providing career pathways and professional opportunities for local government employees and addressing manpower issues within these institutions.

A household survey conducted in January 2025 by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics revealed that approximately 84 per cent of people support the formation of an independent and powerful Local Government Commission through new legislation.

This survey, which covered over 46,000 households in rural and urban areas across 64 districts of the country, also highlighted that 77 per cent of respondents favour the introduction of a single, unified law for local government bodies to replace the existing complex framework of five laws and over 100 notifications and orders.

In terms of electoral preferences, 71 per cent of the survey participants believe that local government elections should not involve political party symbols, while 24 per cent support their inclusion.

The survey also found strong support for ensuring minimum educational qualifications for candidates of local government candidates.

Among respondents, 38 per cent favoured a Secondary School Certificate as the minimum qualification, while 30 per cent suggested the requirement of an HSC, and 25 per cent advocated for a university degree.

The survey also revealed that the public is increasingly concerned about the growing urbanisation in Bangladesh.

Approximately 85 per cent of the respondents expressed support for establishing urban planner offices at the upazila level to manage urban growth effectively.

Besides, 80 of those surveyed recommended the establishment of full civil and magistrate courts at the upazila level to serve local communities in a better way.​

 

[Saif]

Vested political interests may hinder reforms: law adviser

Law adviser Asif Nazrul on Monday said that political parties driven by vested interests always neglected reform initiatives.

www.newagebd.net

Vested political interests may hinder reforms: law adviser
Staff Correspondent 25 February, 2025, 00:41

Law adviser Asif Nazrul. | File photo

Law adviser Asif Nazrul on Monday said that political parties driven by vested interests always neglected reform initiatives.

Addressing a seminar at Dhaka University on ‘Students’ perspective and expectations on reforms in state institutions’, he said that political parties, in general, did not accept the reforms that would make them accountable to the people.

Vested political interests may hinder the refoarm initiatives taken by the interim government, he said.

He referred to the failures of previous political reform initiatives including the three-alliance political roadmap after the fall of the military ruler HM Ershad in the late 1990.

Supported by UNDP, the Centre on Budget and Policy organised the seminar at Professor Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium at Dhaka University.

The law adviser said that a maximum of the reforms recommended by the six reform commissions would be possible if the majority of the political parties agreed and signed the ‘national charter’, or the ‘July charter’.

Citing the ongoing consensus-building approaches and drafting of the ‘national charter’ by the interim government, he said, ‘Only short-term reforms will take place if most of the political parties disagree with mid-term and long-term recommendations. But the students and mass people didn’t sacrifice their lives only for short-term remedies.’

If the political parties agree, an elected government can continue the reform activities, he said. The seminar began with a presentation of a study where 2024 students from 10 higher educational institutions responded.

Discussing the key findings, Dhaka University’s development studies teacher Professor Kazi Maruful Islam said that the majority of respondents wanted a proportional representation electoral system, grassroots opinion-based selection of candidates in the elections, political influence-free administration and anti-corruption drives, accessible judiciary and better services by police.

‘The students also recommended the abolition of all laws infringing their freedom of expression,’ he said.

Electoral reform commission chief and national consensus commission member Badiul Alam Majumder said that the fruits of the student-mass uprising might be snatched if the youths neglected the reform processes.

Another member of the consensus commission, Iftekharuzzaman, said that all the reform initiatives would be futile if there was no reform in the education sector and political parties.

Dhaka University’s sociology teacher Samina Lutfa said that the national consensus commission would not bring inclusive results if it excluded women and ethnic minority people from discussions.

Dhaka University vice chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, Jatiya Nagarik Committee joint convener Sarwar Tusher, Chhatra Dal leader Mallick Wasi Uddin, Biplobi Chhatra Moitree president Nuzifa Hasin Rasha, Ganatantrik Chhatra Council leader Saidul Haque, social science student Sarbamitra Chakma, and physically challenged student Uzzal Mahmud also spoke.​

 

[Saif]

Reluctant to carry out economic reforms, frustration in the committee

Two reports on economic reforms sit idle since there are no strong initiatives from the government to implement the recommendations.

en.prothomalo.com

Reluctant to carry out economic reforms, frustration in the committee
Jahangir Shah
Dhaka
Published: 05 Mar 2025, 08: 49

Two reports on economic reforms sit idle since there are no strong initiatives from the government to implement the recommendations, thus, confusion arises whether the expectation on the structural reform to the economy would be fulfilled.

The interim government prepared two reports on the corruption and irregularities in the economy during the autocrat Awami League governments, as well as on determining future economic strategies. One of the two reports is the whitepaper formulated by the committee led by Debapriya Bhattacharya, Distinguished Fellow at Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) and Convener of the Citizen's Platform for SDGs, while another is the report of the taskforce led by former director general of Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) KAS Murshid.

The whitepaper was submitted to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on 1 December 2024 and the taskforce report on 30 January. Since no significant steps have yet been taken to implement the recommendations of the two reports, frustration grew among the committee members, with several members opining the government is not paying attention to economic reforms.

When asked, Debapriya Bhattacharya, head of the Committee on the preparation for White Paper on the State of Bangladesh Economy, told Prothom Alo, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus owns the whitepaper but those who are relevant from his advisory council did not own it. Perhaps, there is a lack of capacity to carry out reforms as per the report, or the atmosphere that the interim government is passing through is not favourable for reforms.

There had been much discussion on corruption, irregularities, money laundering, and whimsical economic management that occurred during the 15-year rule of Awami League governments, which was overthrown by the July mass uprising on 5 August last year.

The interim government took office on 8 August. The new government formed various commissions, committees and taskforces aimed at carrying out reforms in different sectors. So far, 11 commissions have filed full reports so far and another submitted a summary.

A National Conesus Commission led by the chief adviser was formed to review and adopt the recommendations submitted by the six reform commissions. The Conesus Commission held a phase of discussion with the political parties. Discussion will start with the political parties soon to take the latter’s opinions. However, no definite action was seen on the whitepaper and the taskforce report.

A top official of the finance ministry told Prothom Alo, “The budget of the next fiscal year will reflect the recommendations of the whitepaper and the taskforce report and work has begun accordingly. However, all recommendations of the two reports cannot be implemented overnight, it has to be done in phases. This government will start several recommendations and the next governments will do the remaining ones.”

Whitepaper sits idle for three months

Led by Debapriya Bhattacharya, the committee to formulate the whitepaper was formed on 29 August. The 12-member committee included

Professor AK Enamul Haque, Dean of Faculty of Business and Economics, East West University, Ferdaus Ara Begum,Chief Executive Officer, Business Initiative Leading Development (BUILD), Imran Matin, Executive Director 0f BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), BRAC University, Dr Kazi Iqbal, Senior Research Fellow of Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), Dr M Tamim, Professor of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and former Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor (2008), Dr Mohammad Abu Eusuf, Professor of Department of Development Studies, University of Dhaka, Professor Mustafizur Rahman, Distinguished Fellow, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Dr Selim Raihan, Professor of Department of Economics, University of Dhaka, and Executive Director, South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM), Dr Sharmind Neelormi, Professor, Department of Economics, Jahangirnagar University, Dr Zahid Hossain, former lead economist, World Bank and eminent columnist attended the meeting while Dr Tasneem Arefa Siddiqui, former professor, Department of Political Science, University of Dhaka, and founding chair, Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit (RMMRU).

The whitepaper committee submitted a 397-page report after three months highlighting various irregularities that include lootings, money laundering, irregularities in banking sectors and power sector corruption, as well as placing various recommendations for economic reforms.

According to the White Paper, a total of USD 234 billion or approximately Tk 28 trillion was siphoned off abroad during the tenures of the Awami League governments between 2009 and 2023.

It is estimated that between Tk 1.61 trillion and Tk 2.80 trillion have been used as bribes and extortion at various levels, solely derived from public expenditure on development projects.

Between Tk 770 billion and Tk 980 billion of these were simply bribes paid to government officials while between Tk 700 billion and Tk 1.40 trillion were extortions by politicians and their accomplices and the rest are spent on collusive payments. Most of them live aboard.

About USD 60 billion or Tk 7.20 trillion has been spent through the annual development programme (ADP) over the past 15 years, but USD 14 billion (23 per cent) or approximately Tk 1.61 trillion to USD 24 billion (40 per cent) or approximately Tk 2.80 trillion of it was wasted and looted in the name of development projects during this period.

According to the White Paper, trillions of takas were embezzled from the stock market through fraud, manipulation, placement shares, and deceit in the IPO process. Banks were taken over in collusion with the state agencies over the course of one and a half decades. The default loans of the banking sector amounted to Tk 6.75 trillion in the country, which is equivalent to the cost of constructing 14 metro rails or 24 Padma bridges.

The committee to formulate the whitepaper recommended structural reforms to remove these irregularities and corruption from the economy, and drew immediate focus on seven aspects. These are; (1) rolling out an economic stabilisation programme, (2) delineating a framework for the national budget for 2025-26 fiscal, (3) proposing a mid-term planning format, (4) identifying priority reform domains, (5) operationalising a robust transition strategy for LDC graduation, (6) accelerating substantive delivery of the SDGs and (7) hosting a forum for inclusive and sustainable development.

There is no visible progress on the seven recommendations, although several initiatives have been taken to control inflation and prevent the foreign currency reserve fall to bring economic stability.

The white paper committee held a discussion on the white paper in a hotel in the capital on 18 January. It was attended by adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin Ahmed. Sources say the committee wanted finance adviser Salehuddin Ahmed and Bangladesh Bank governor Ahsan H Mansur to attend the event. But they did not attend the programme.

Debapriya Bhattacharya explained the interim government’s activities over the economy of the country from three perspectives.

He said first the white paper has revealed the economic characteristics of the previous government. Second, the government has taken several initiatives to strengthen the economy, including controlling inflation rate. The interim government deserves half the marks for that. Third, the government has failed to achieve any notable progress in terms of infrastructural reform of the economy.

In his opinion, the discussion of the election has come to the fore now. The countdown of the interim government has started. The time to make the most of the opportunity to reform the nation is flying fast. He stressed on prioritising economic reform in the election manifesto of the political parties for the upcoming elections, he said.

Recommendation of the taskforce

The other members of the taskforce, named “Re-strategising the economy and mobilising resources for equitable and sustainable development” apart from KAS Murshid are - former World Bank official Akhtar Mahmood, Dhaka University’s economics department professor Selim Raihan, former head of the research department of Commonwealth secretariat Abdur Razzak, Yale University’s economics department professor Mushfiq Mobarak, BUET professor Shamsul Haque, Dhaka University’s economics department professor Rumana Huque, former president of MCCI Nasim Manzoor, BIDS research director Monzur Ahmed, CPD executive director of Fahmida Khatun, BDjobs chief executive officer AKM Fahim Mashroor and GED member Md. Kawser Ahmed.

The taskforce was formed on 11 September. On 30 January, they submitted their 526-page report to the chief adviser which contained several recommendations regarding a number of socioeconomic issues. One of the most notable recommendations was – introduction of a progressive revenue system which will allow collecting more revenue from the rich. The taskforce also asked to stress on increasing allocation for education and health and making relevant services more available and affordable. The taskforce also has specific proposals.

The advisory council discussed the report during a meeting held in February. A decision was taken that the council will scrutinise those recommendations and all ministries will implement those during the tenure of this government. Council also asked to submit a list of the recommendations that should be implemented in the next advisory council meeting. However, there has not been much progress in this regard since then.

For instance, there was a recommendation of dividing the Bangladesh Biman to two sections to privatise it. It has been learnt that there has been no discussion in the Civil Aviation Authority or in the Ministry of Tourism as yet. Apart from this, it has been recommended to increase exports by serving 1500 companies that export more than 1 million dollars a year. However, the ministry of commerce is yet to take any action regarding this.

SANEM (South Asian Network on Economic Modelling) executive director Selim Raihan was a member of both white paper committee and the taskforce. He expressed frustration for not taking any initiative to implement the recommendations made by these two bodies.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, Selim Raihan said, “A partisan government is never interested in reforms. People inside and outside the party obstruct in case the party takes any reform initiatives. However, the interim government has no such obstruction. Despite that, there has been no initiative so far.”

Asked why the government is not being able to implement the recommendations, Selim Raihan said, “This government does not have the support of the bureaucrats. The time for these reforms is flying fast. People now are talking more about the elections rather than the reform.”

The commerce adviser said while addressing a CPD event on 24 February that he did not get the taskforce report. Taskforce chief KAS Murshid was surprised to hear that. However, the report was published on the website of the planning ministry right after it was handed over to the chief adviser.

The taskforce has prepared the report under the planning ministry. However, the planning adviser was not present in the two-day conference that started 24 February.

‘Good policy without implementation’

Dhaka chamber former president Abul Kashem Khan told Prothom Alo, “The country adopts good policies. But they have never been implemented. We expect a lot from the interim government. So the government must implement the recommendations made by the white paper committee and the taskforce. The entire process would be easier if the businesspersons could be involved. The businesspersons will find some confidence in the government, if it can implement at least two to four of these recommendations.”

This report appeared in the print and online editions of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten in English by Hasanul Banna and Ashis Basu​

 

[Saif]

Information commission needs independence

As Bangladesh faces escalating demands for greater accountability in governance, the prolonged dysfunctioning of its information commission signals a troubling disregard for the nation's commitment to transparency. Six months after the 2024 political changeover, the commission remains non-functiona

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Information commission needs independence
FE
Published :
Mar 08, 2025 22:59
Updated :
Mar 08, 2025 22:59

As Bangladesh faces escalating demands for greater accountability in governance, the prolonged dysfunctioning of its information commission signals a troubling disregard for the nation's commitment to transparency. Six months after the 2024 political changeover, the commission remains non-functional, its leadership positions vacant despite discussions with the interim government. This alarming development, brought to light by the Information Rights Forum (IRF) recently at a press conference, highlights a significant lapse in governance. The IRF has justifiably called for the information commission to be established as an independent constitutional body-a move that would enhance its autonomy and safeguard it from political interference. Without such independence, the commission risks repeating past failures, such as the appointment of politically aligned leaders, which eroded public trust.

The IRF has proposed several amendments to the Right to Information (RTI) Act to enhance its effectiveness. These include expanding the Act's scope to cover private organisations operating with government licences or contracts, revising information delivery timelines, designating union-level offices as information-providing units, and increasing penalties for non-compliance. These proposals have merit. Not only would they strengthen the RTI framework, but they would also transform it from a mere legal right into a practical tool for citizens. During the previous autocratic regime, the commission-despite being the primary regulatory body for enforcing the RTI Act-was compromised by political allegiances within its leadership. Positions meant for impartial oversight were instead filled through political appointments, undermining its credibility and preventing it from functioning as a truly independent watchdog. As a result, the commission remained vulnerable to political interference, and its lack of autonomy routinely sidelined citizens' right to information when it mattered most.

For the RTI Act to serve its intended purpose, it must be fully implemented without obstruction. The current state of affairs, characterized by prolonged inactivity and apparent government indifference, is unacceptable. The government must recognise the information commission's crucial role in fostering transparency and accountability -- both essential pillars of a healthy democracy. It should prioritise granting the information commission constitutional status to guarantee its operational and financial independence. The proposed amendments to the RTI Act, as presented by the IRF, provide a clear roadmap for strengthening the commission and ensuring its effectiveness. The government should engage in constructive dialogue with the IRF and other stakeholders to expedite the amendment process and address any concerns. The appointment of commissioners must be conducted with utmost transparency, impartiality and urgency, ensuring that individuals of high integrity and competence are selected. Additionally, the government should allocate sufficient resources to the commission, enabling it to perform its duties effectively. Establishing clear operational rules and procedures for the commission and clear performance metrics for commissioners, particularly regarding information disclosure and appeals, is also crucial.

A functional information commission is the bedrock of participatory democracy that enables citizens to hold power to account. The interim government, tasked with implementing critical reforms to pave the way for future democratic processes, cannot remain passive while a cornerstone of transparency crumbles. A democracy thrives when its citizens are well-informed, and ensuring an efficient, independent information commission is vital for building an open and accountable governance system. The time to act is now, to ensure that the Right to Information Act becomes a powerful instrument for promoting good governance and empowering citizens.​

 

[Saif]

Guterres expresses solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform, transition

Visiting United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres has expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process.

en.prothomalo.com

Guterres expresses solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform, transition
BSS
Dhaka
Published: 14 Mar 2025, 17: 28

Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain called on him at Hotel InterContinental on 14 March, 2025. BSS

Visiting United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres has expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process.

The UNSG made the remarks when Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain called on him at Hotel InterContinental in the morning on Friday.

During the meeting, the Secretary-General and the Foreign Adviser discussed Bangladesh’s ongoing transition and reform efforts, according to a readout issued by UN after the meeting.

“The Secretary-General expressed his solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform and transition process,” said the readout.

The UN Chief expressed appreciation for the close cooperation between the United Nations and Bangladesh as well as for Bangladesh’s generosity towards Rohingyas.

The Secretary-General also thanked Bangladesh for its strong commitment to UN peacekeeping.

After the foreign adviser, High Representative of Chief Advisor on Rohingya Issue and Priority Matters Dr Khalilur Rahman also called on the UN secretary general at the same venue and discussed the issues related to the Rohingya crisis.

“The Secretary-General and the High Representative discussed the situation in Rakhine state and the upcoming High-Level Conference on Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar,” said the UN readout.

Later, the UN Secretary General met with Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus at the Chief Adviser’s Office.

Antonio Guterres arrived in Bangladesh yesterday on a 4-day visit at the invitation of the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

During the visit the UNSG will visit the Rohingya camp together with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus later today and join an iftar with one lakh Rohinbgyas there.

The UN Secretary-General is expected to "issue a call" to the international community to step up their humanitarian assistance for distressed Rohingyas.​

 

[Saif]

Govt fostering consensus on sustainable reforms in labour sector: Sakhawat

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain highlighted this commitment during the 353rd Governing Body Session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) held yesterday

www.thedailystar.net

Govt fostering consensus on sustainable reforms in labour sector: Sakhawat

The interim government is fostering national consensus on sustainable reforms in all sectors, including labour, through active stakeholder participation.

Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain highlighted this commitment during the 353rd Governing Body Session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) held yesterday.

Sakhawat, accompanied by chief adviser's envoy for international affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, presented a progress report on Bangladesh's labour reforms amid existing complaints lodged against the nation.

In his speech, Sakhawat noted that the government has dismissed most politically motivated cases against trade union leaders and workers while ensuring genuine worker and employer representation in democratic tri-partite committees.

He also highlighted consensus on simplifying documentation for trade union registration, reducing mandatory meeting requirements, and allowing up to five unions within a single establishment.

Representatives from developing nations across Asia and Africa lauded Bangladesh's efforts in advancing workers' rights and fostering decent working environments.

Development partners welcomed the government's initiatives and pledged continued support.

The session concluded with a decision to defer the next discussion on the case from November 2025 to March 2026, reflecting positive steps taken by Bangladesh.

In his closing remarks, Sakhawat urged global stakeholders to support the swift resolution of the ongoing case against Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Reform process facing internal, external resistance

Both internal and external forces are attempting to obstruct the reform process, National Consensus Commission (NCC) Vice-President Prof Ali Riaz said yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Reform process facing internal, external resistance
Prof Ali Riaz tells roundtable discussion

Both internal and external forces are attempting to obstruct the reform process, National Consensus Commission (NCC) Vice-President Prof Ali Riaz said yesterday.

He described the reform process as the first major opportunity since the 1971 Liberation War to transform the state into an accountable institution.

Speaking at a roundtable discussion titled "Political Consensus and Citizens' Thinking in State Reform" at the capital's CIRDAP auditorium yesterday, he emphasised the need for public participation in the process. The event was organised by Shujan—Citizens for Good Governance.

"Moving forward is impossible without the participation, pressure, and inclusion of citizens," he said. "While political parties represent a large segment of people, they do not represent everyone. Citizens' opinions will be incorporated in parallel with discussions with parties."

Prof Riaz said that Bangladesh's institutions had been severely weakened over the past 16 years due to one-person-centric rule.

"The judiciary has been practically destroyed, and other institutions have been deliberately dismantled. Without establishing an accountable state system, including electoral reforms, the situation will remain unchanged," he said.

While political parties represent a large segment of people, they do not represent everyone. Citizens' opinions will be incorporated in parallel with discussions with parties.— Prof Ali Riaz Vice President, National Consensus Commission

He warned that the current structural system would be unable to prevent future autocratic rule.

Addressing queries about constitutional amendments, he defended the proposal to replace secularism with pluralism while retaining the term "state religion".

"Secularism has become the principle of a single political party, which the people have already rejected," he said. "Pluralism is a broader concept that includes all religions and castes under one umbrella."

He acknowledged that the provision for a state religion clause remained a divisive issue. "Multiple governments have upheld this provision since its inclusion. There is a political reality behind it," he said.

Over 40 percent of 190 countries globally have similar provisions, he added.

Shujan Secretary and NCC member Badiul Alam Majumdar outlined the interim government's three key responsibilities: preventing the return of autocracy, prosecuting crimes against humanity, and transferring power to elected political parties.

"These tasks can proceed simultaneously. Some reforms must be implemented before elections, while others can follow. The Election Commission must be independent and accountable, and a neutral government is essential during elections," he said.

Another NCC member Justice Emdadul Haque reiterated that judicial reform was a critical issue, noting that commissions had already submitted reports.

"Reforms are an ongoing process that will be enriched further by citizens' opinions," he said.

Former Jahangirnagar University Professor Dilara Chowdhury stressed that over 90 percent of people support state reforms, and political parties are aligning with this demand.

"Though parties have their flaws, a country cannot function without them. Reforms must begin within the parties themselves, and necessary changes should be implemented before elections," she said.

Journalist Abu Saeed Khan argued against removing secularism while retaining "state religion", calling the proposal illogical.

"Secularism was not just an Awami League concern; it was a collective movement," he said. He also warned that the constitution should be amended, not rewritten, as the 1972 version was created through national consensus.

Dilip Kumar Sarker, central coordinator of Shujan, presented the keynote paper.

"Following the people's uprising, there is hope that authoritarian or fascist rule will not return and that democracy will be institutionalised," he said. "The ultimate goal is a society based on equality, human dignity, and justice. To achieve this, state reform and a change in political culture are essential."​

 

[Saif]

Media commission suggests merging BSS, BTV, Bangladesh Betar

As part of this integration, the commission suggested incorporating BSS as the news division of the new entity, which would consist of three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News

www.thedailystar.net

Media commission suggests merging BSS, BTV, Bangladesh Betar

The Media Reform Commission has recommended merging Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar, and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) into a single entity, which could be named "Bangladesh Broadcasting Corporation" or "National Broadcasting Corporation."

As part of this integration, the commission suggested incorporating BSS as the news division of the new entity, which would consist of three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News.

The commission head Kamal Ahmed and other members submitted its report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at state guest house Jamuna today.

Later, at a press briefing in front of Jamuna, Kamal Ahmed presented a summary of the report.

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and other commission members were present, and journalists were also provided with copies of the report summary.

Currently, BTV, Bangladesh Betar, and BSS operate as separate entities. The commission noted that combining television and radio into a single organisation would allow for optimal use of resources, expertise, and creativity. Similar models exist in international broadcasters like BBC and Deutsche Welle.

The commission emphasised that this integration would be particularly effective for news and current affairs programming. It pointed out that separating audio from video formats is not a complex task, and many radio programmes are now streamed as video content on social media.

Bangladesh Betar already does this regularly through its Dhaka and regional centres. Given this reality, formalising institutional collaboration between BTV and Bangladesh Betar has become essential.

According to the commission, the newsrooms of BTV and Bangladesh Betar lack professionalism and primarily function as platforms for government bulletins, state ceremonies, and development news.

News divisions in these outlets are typically run by government information officers, and reporters who are recruited have no opportunity to work independently.

On the other hand, despite its shortcomings and inefficiencies, BSS operates a professional newsroom.

However, due to government control and political interference, BSS has failed to become a fully independent and a model news agency.

The First Press Commission had previously suggested that a state-owned news agency should not exist, as many countries around the world do not have one.

In this context, the commission believes that instead of keeping BSS as a separate entity, it should be integrated as the "News Division" of the new unified broadcasting organisation. The news produced by this central newsroom would be broadcast on both BTV and Bangladesh Betar.

The proposed organisation would have three main divisions -- Television, Radio, and News -- under the Bangladesh Broadcasting Corporation or National Broadcasting Corporation.

The News Division would continue providing services to its existing clients. Each division would be led by a director, while the unified broadcasting entity would be headed by a director general.

Additionally, the Media Reform Commission has proposed replacing both the Bangladesh Press Council and the planned Broadcast Commission with a single regulatory body -- Bangladesh Media Commission. The commission has also drafted a legal framework for establishing this new media oversight body.​

 

[Saif]

Media commission recommends 'one media, one house'

No single company, group, individual, family, or entrepreneur should own multiple media outlets, it said

www.thedailystar.net

Media commission recommends 'one media, one house'

Photo: CA press wing

The Media Reform Commission has recommended that no single company, group, individual, family, or entrepreneur should own multiple media outlets.

The commission recommended a bar on cross-ownership (owner of a TV station may not be allowed to own a newspaper) and ownership of multiple outlets of the same nature (same owner of more than one news outlets in the same platform in the same language) to safeguard the commercial viability of the sector, which it terms 'one media, one house'.

In its report, the commission proposed a series of reforms under 21 key points and sub-clauses.

The commission's chairman, Kamal Ahmed, along with other members, submitted the report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna today.

The commission has also recommended bringing media outlets under the capital market.

As part of this, it suggested setting a deadline for medium and large media companies to go public by offering shares and getting listed on the stock exchange.

Among other recommendations, the commission stated that no journalist should be hired—whether on a temporary, permanent, or contractual basis—without an appointment letter, a photo ID, and a salary.

It also proposed that the probation period should not exceed one year.

Additionally, the commission recommended that the starting basic salary for permanently employed journalists should be equivalent to that of a first-class government gazetted officer.​

 

[Saif]

Reform may result in weak govt system, says BNP

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday alleged that the reform proposals of the National Consensus Commission appeared to be an unreasonable attempt to appoint unelected persons to state positions in the future.

www.newagebd.net

Reform may result in weak govt system, says BNP
Staff Correspondent 22 March, 2025, 16:14

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addresses a press conference at the BNP chairperson’s office in the capital’s Gulshan area on Saturday. | UNB Photo.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday alleged that the reform proposals of the National Consensus Commission appeared to be an unreasonable attempt to appoint unelected persons to state positions in the future.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir made the allegation at an emergency press conference at the party chairperson’s Gulshan office in the capital.

‘The democratic character of the state and the people’s ownership are reflected in the elected parliament. However, a review of the constitutional and electoral reform commission’s recommendations revealed that politicians are incompetent,’ he said.

Fakhrul said that the recommendations proposed new commissions, including a Constitutional Commission.

‘The description of the jurisdiction and activities of these commissions give ample reasons to believe that the aim is to undermine and disempower the legislative and executive branches as much as possible and it will result in a weak and almost ineffective government system,’ he said.

The BNP leader said that it was desirable that various reforms and constitutional amendments would be made with importance given to the democratic traditions, culture, and religious sentiments of the people.

Fakhrul said that there were similarities between the issues mentioned in the spreadsheet of the National Consensus Commission and the statements made by its members at different times, as well as those from certain political parties.

‘Theses may raise questions in the public’s mind about whether all the issues are part of a pre-determined action plan and whether they would truly serve the interests of democracy,’ he said.

Although highly important issues like the ‘preamble’ of the constitution were included in the reform commission’s recommendations, it was not mentioned in the spreadsheet, he said.

Though the spreadsheet listed about 70 proposals, the main report contained approximately 123 recommendations, he said.

He said that, similarly, although the main report of the Electoral Reform Commission had included around 150 recommendations, the spreadsheet had mentioned only 27 issues, most of which were related to constitutional reform.

‘Therefore, we believe that attaching our views on the main recommendations to the spreadsheet will avoid confusion,’ Fakhrul said.

BNP will submit its response and observations on the reform proposals to the NCC on Sunday.

The BNP leader once again alleged that some advisers of the interim government were directly and indirectly involved in the process of forming political parties while in power and the issue had created doubts in people’s minds.

He said that various signs and evidence of using the administrative machinery in this process gradually emerged. ‘It is not pleasant for the country and the democracy at all.’

‘There is no room for unnecessary debates such as “reforms before the election” or “election before reforms”. Since reform is an ongoing process, reforms and elections can proceed simultaneously,’ Fakhrul said.

He also mentioned that a reform charter could be prepared based on the consensus of political parties and the elected government would implement the reforms later.

In this situation, the main task of the interim government is to organise a free and fair national election quickly after implementing necessary reforms based on consensus, and then transfer responsibility to the elected government, Fakhrul said.

He mentioned that the elected government would complete the reforms desired by the people’s consensus.

BNP standing committee members Salahuddin Ahmed, Mirza Abbas, Selima Rahman and Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku were also present.​

 

[Saif]

REFORM DIALOGUE: Khelafat Majlis for all reforms before polls

Khelafat Majlis central leaders, while meeting the National Consensus Commission on Saturday, demanded implementation of all the reforms in the constitution, electoral system, judiciary, public administration, police and Anti-Corruption Commission before the next general election.

www.newagebd.net

REFORM DIALOGUE: Khelafat Majlis for all reforms before polls
Staff Correspondent 22 March, 2025, 23:57

Khelafat Majlis central leaders, while meeting the National Consensus Commission on Saturday, demanded implementation of all the reforms in the constitution, electoral system, judiciary, public administration, police and Anti-Corruption Commission before the next general election.

At the LD Hall of the national parliament building in Dhaka city, they sat with the commission members in the second dialogue for political parties’ consensus on the recommendations by the reform commissions in the six areas and institutions.

The vice president of the consensus commission, Professor Ali Riaz, chaired the dialogue in which Khelafat Majlish secretary general Ahmad Abdul Kader led an eight-member team.

After the meeting, Kader told journalists that necessary reforms in the six areas would be well possible in the next 10 months if the political parties were sincere.

He, however, said that his party did not feel the necessity of a constituent assembly to adopt reforms.

He said that his party disagreed with the constitution reform commission-proposed ‘pluralism’ and suggested that the consensus commission should uphold ‘having faith in Allah’ as the fundamental principle of the constitution.

Khelafat Majlis suggested that the constitution must prohibit laws that violate Islamic laws.

‘We recommend direct elections for the 400 seats of lower house, instead of keeping 100 seats reserved for women, as proposed by two reform commissions,’ Kader said.

Of the 166-point key recommendations sent to the political parties, Khelafat Majlis agreed with 140 points, partially disagreed with 10 points and disagreed with 15 points.

Khelafat Majlis delegation included naib-e-ameer Ahmad Ali Qasemi, joint secretary general Mostafizur Rahman Faisal, Md Abdul Jalil and ABM Sirajul Mamun

In a separate meeting, a 13-member delegation from the Bangladesh Labour Party, led by its chairman Mostafizur Rahman Iran, participated in a dialogue with the consensus commission.

The party vice chairman and its Dhaka Metropolitan unit president SM Yusuf Ali, lawyer Johra Khatun Jui, Sylhet Metropolitan unit president Mahbubur Rahman Khaled, Chittagong Metropolitan unit president Md Alauddin Ali and Hinduratna Ramkrishna Saha, among others, were present.

Apart from Professor Riaz, consensus commission members Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Haque, Iftekharuzzaman and Badiul Alam Majumdar along with the chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haidar were present during the two dialogues.

Formed on February 12, the consensus commission is assigned to draft a consensus-based ‘National Charter’ by July this year.

On March 5, the commission sent a 166-point questionnaire to 38 political parties, requesting their feedback by March 13.

Till Saturday, the commission received feedback from 16 political parties, according to a press release.

Today, the commission is scheduled to hold talks with the Rashtra Sangskar Andolan.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Communist Party of Bangladesh and newly floated National Citizen Party are expected to submit their opinions on reform to the commission today.​

 

[Saif]

BNP opposes equating July 2024 Uprising with 1971 Liberation War in constitution

BNP on Sunday submitted its proposal to the National Consensus Commission on reforms

en.prothomalo.com

Reform proposals
BNP opposes equating July 2024 Uprising with 1971 Liberation War in constitution
UNB
Dhaka
Published: 23 Mar 2025, 18: 59

BNP flag Prothom Alo illustration

BNP on Sunday submitted its proposal to the National Consensus Commission on reforms, strongly opposing the inclusion of the July 2024 Uprising with same importance of the 1971 Liberation War in the preamble of the constitution.

The party also opposed other proposals, including changing the name of the state, curbing the powers of the Election Commission, and the formation of a national constitution council.

While the BNP agreed with the proposal to introduce a bicameral parliament and increase the number of reserved seats for women, it expressed differing views on the procedural aspects of these changes.

A three-member BNP delegation, led by Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, handed over the party's proposals to commission's Vice-Chairman Prof Dr Ali Riaz.

The BNP submitted written proposals regarding reforms in the Constitution, public administration, the judiciary, the electoral process and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Speaking to reporters later, Salahuddin Ahmed said the preamble of the constitution has not been explicitly mentioned in the commission’s proposal. The preamble is a vital part of the Constitution and the commission's suggestion to completely alter or revise it is essentially akin to rewriting it, he said.

The BNP leader specifically objected to the proposal to equate the events of the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 mass uprising within the same context.

He said BNP considers this inappropriate and suggested that such matters should either be addressed separately or placed in the schedule section of the Constitution.

Salahuddin also said BNP supports the preamble as it existed prior to the 15th Amendment, rejecting the current proposal to change it.

Regarding the suggestion to alter the state’s name in the Constitution, he said the people of Bangladesh have long accepted the country's name through practice.

The BNP leader argued that changing the name would not bring any substantial benefits and thus the party remains firmly opposed to this alteration.

About the proposals on election-related reforms, Salahuddin said their party thinks the independence of the Election Commission (EC) will be hampered if some of the recommendations of the Election System Reform Commission are implemented.

He said BNP believes that the power to determine the boundaries of parliamentary constituencies and the national identity card service should remain in the hands of the Election Commission. "If the NID is handed over to a separate independent institution, then the Election Commission will have to rely on that institution repeatedly for all assistance related to the NID. We think it should remain under the Election Commission."

The BNP leader also said their party does not agree with the proposal to grant the parliamentary standing committee the power to hold the Election Commission accountable. "We do not think the Election Commission, as an independent constitutional institution, should be held accountable in that manner."

Salahuddin said their party feels the interim government should focus on the national election, not a referendum. "We think the national parliamentary election should be held now, not a referendum. If a political government is established democratically through national elections first, all discussions can take place, and decisions can be made in parliament."

He also said their party does not believe a constituent assembly is necessary for the extensive reform of the constitution. "A constituent assembly is formed with representatives from various professions when a new state requires a constitution… our state is not new, and we already have a constitution, although its democratic character has been destroyed," the BNP leader said.

Since a new structure and democratic framework of the state needs to be built, he said they proposed significant amendments to the constitution.

“Those demanding a constituent assembly have also suggested 69 amendments. We’ve proposed fewer, but through discussion, we can reach a broad consensus and create a revised constitution. If they want to call it a new constitution, we have no objection. There’s no need for a constituent assembly," Salahuddin said.

Regarding the Anti-Corruption Commission reforms, he said there were about 20 proposals in the spreadsheet. "Out of those 20, we directly agreed with 11, and with 7 or 8, we agreed in principle with some comments. We opposed only one proposal."

About public administration reform, Salahuddin said there were proposals on 26 issues. "We agreed on nearly half of them, and for the remaining half, we have our opinions and comments. Through detailed discussions, we can reach a consensus on these matters."

About the Judiciary Reform Commission's proposals, he said their party agreed with almost all of the commission's proposals.

"In our 31-point proposal, we recommended ensuring full independence of the judiciary, including transferring control of lower courts to the Supreme Court by amending Article 116 of the Constitution. We also support the proposal for an independent secretariat for the Supreme Court. Regarding financial management, we’ve suggested detailed discussions on future budget matters," the BNP leader said.

He said they have proposed establishing a lower judicial council based on the Supreme Judicial Council model to ensure accountability in lower courts.

Salahuddin said they opposed proposals, especially the formation of a National Constitutional Council with unelected individuals. "The core principle of the constitution is that the state should be governed by elected representatives, and this would harm that principle."​

 

[Saif]

Reforms to bring fundamental transformation in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that his interim government has initiated critical reforms to restore public trust in Bangladesh.

en.prothomalo.com

Reforms to bring fundamental transformation in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser
BSS
Hainan, China
Updated: 27 Mar 2025, 13: 33

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus speaks at Boao Forum for Asia conference in Hainan on 27 March 2025 PID

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that his interim government has initiated critical reforms to restore public trust in Bangladesh.

"Our youth and citizens demonstrated exceptional resolve and strength to redefine the future of Bangladesh. To restore public trust we have initiated critical reforms," he said while addressing the opening plenary of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference in China Today, Thursday.

The theme of the conference is "Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future."

Professor Yunus said independent commissions have been launched to reform the electoral system, judiciary, civil administration, and law enforcement.

"These reforms, when implemented, will bring about fundamental transformation of our nation," he added.

The chief adviser said: "As we build a new Bangladesh, we face multiple challenges which are shared by other Asian countries."

In particular global financial market instability, political uncertainties, diplomatic tensions, and trade disruptions create volatility, he said.

He said rising interest rates and debt servicing costs are deepening Asia's debt crisis.

Professor Yunus said despite global commitments to the 2030 Agenda, progress is slow. Only 24 per cent of SDG have been met.

He mentioned that developing Asian countries face an SDG financing gap of 2.5 to 4 trillion US dollars annually.

Beyond SDG financing, Asia also needs large scale investments in infrastructure and economic diversification through responsible financing, he said.

The Chief Adviser said Bangladesh has been a victim of corruption and illicit financial flows, while these corrupt practices cost developing countries an estimated 1 trillion US dollar annually which is multiple times more than the total ODA they receive.

He said Asia should stand united to establish a multilateral mediation mechanism for asset recovery and return.

"Food security is under increasing pressure. Rising prices of essential commodities are straining household budgets, especially for low-income families," Professor Yunus said.

Climate change and natural disasters are exacerbating this crisis, he said, adding that strengthening food supply chains is essential.

He said energy security is critical, especially for net-importing developing countries, while energy supply disruptions drive inflation, economic instability, and debt distress.

"We must find sustainable energy solutions and scale up investments in renewables," he added.

The Chief Adviser stressed investing in health and education for human capital development. Countries that invest in universal healthcare see better economic productivity, he noted.

Digital education and vocational training must be expanded to equip our youth for the jobs in future, he asserted.

About global crisis, Professor Yunus said geopolitical tensions are rising; climate change is escalating; debt burdens are unsustainable; and humanitarian crises are growing.

Political will for development cooperation is weakening, while the world faces an alarming shortfall in collective action, he said.

The chief adviser observed that Asia, home to 60 per cent of the global population and 55 per cent of global GDP, was at the center of these changes.

He said emerging norms, regulations, and technologies are reshaping governance and economic policies.

"Assumptions that shaped policies a decade ago are no longer relevant. The need for regional and global cooperation has never been more pressing," Professor Yunus added.

Former UN Secretary-General and Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia Ban Ki-moon, Executive Vice Premiere of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Ding Xuexiang and Secretary General of Boao Forum for Asia Zhang Jun also spoke on the occasion.

Yunus for economic models prioritising people, planet

The chief adviser also stressed shifting toward sustainable economic models prioritising people and the planet over profits.

"We must shift toward sustainable economic models that prioritise people and the planet over profits," he said.

Professor Yunus said human civilisation is at risk as people continue to embrace self-destructive economic values.

The dominant economic model thrives on limitless consumption and it justifies over-extraction of resources and environmental degradation in the name of growth, he said.

Mentioning that the climate crisis poses an existential threat to humanity, the chief adviser said in Asia-pacific region, climate disaster-related economic losses are already enormous, which is equivalent to USS 65 billion.

He said climate vulnerable countries like Bangladesh are forced to divert resources toward disaster response, limiting investments in productive sectors.

"We need new, additional, accessible, non-ODA, non-debt-creating, grant-based climate finance, with an equitable distribution between adaptation and mitigation," he added.

Professor Yunus said universal access to life-saving medicines and technologies must be guaranteed.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call, highlighting deep inequities in global health systems. Asia should take a united stance in the ongoing negotiation of the Pandemic Treaty, he said.

Pointing out the advancement of technology, Professor Yunus said, Rapid strides in data driven technology, robotics, quantum computing and artificial intelligence, are shaping the world.

Lower capability, capacity, and resource mobilisation in Asia compared to advanced economies, could further widen digital divide, he observed.

Data sovereignty and security is a critical concern, he said, adding that, if technology evolves irresponsibly, it could pose existential risks.

Asia must close the digital divide and build regional capacity in technology, innovation and incubation, he added.​