Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called for stronger international cooperation to address emerging global security challenges, saying rapid technological advances and transnational criminal networks require a fundamental shift in traditional policing.
"The security challenges facing the world are becoming increasingly complex. Rapid technological development and the transnational networks of criminal groups demand a radical transformation of the traditional policing system," he said while addressing the opening session of the two-day United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS 2026) at the UN Headquarters in New York.
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The minister is leading a five-member Bangladesh delegation to the summit, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday.
Police chiefs and policymakers from UN member states are taking part in three plenary sessions during the two-day event, starting on Tuesday.
The sessions focus on "Vision for the Future of UN Police," "Innovations and New Technologies in UN Policing," and "Enhancing International Cooperation to Address Transnational Challenges."
Highlighting Bangladesh's role as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, Salahuddin said the country has modernised its Formed Police Unit (FPU) to respond to future challenges.
"Our police force has incorporated SWAT, Bomb Disposal Units, cyber and organised crime investigation specialists, forensic experts, immigration police and intelligence-led policing, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities," he said.
The minister proposed establishing a UN Police Knowledge and Innovation Network to facilitate the systematic exchange of expertise and skills among member states.
He said the initiative will enable countries to share best practices and technical knowledge.
Salahuddin also proposed holding an Annual Environment Policing Conference to strengthen international cooperation and preparedness in addressing security challenges arising from climate change.
He urged the international community to build an adaptable, innovative and accountable UN police force in the interest of global peace and humanity.
According to the ministry, Bangladesh's proposals and its commitment to global peace were widely appreciated by participants at the summit.
The conference was attended by ministerial-level representatives of UN member states, as well as the UN Under-Secretaries-General for Peace Operations (DPO), Operational Support (DOS), and Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA).