United News of Bangladesh

A Tk 1.5-crore project to renovate a vulnerable Teesta River dam in Nohali Union, Rangpur, has turned into a hub of illegal sand extraction, political involvement and profit-making, raising concerns among locals. Instead of reinforcing the embankment, influential groups and contractors are allegedly using the project to extract sand illegally. Locals describe it as a ‘sand looting festival’. The Water Development Board (Rangpur Zone) said the UNDP allocated Tk 1,38,94,085 to renovate a 1,206-metre stretch. Read more: Govt moves to modernise BSTI labs with Tk 851.93cr project Contractor Hasibul Hasan was officially in charge, but subcontractor Bharat Prasad is actually doing the work. Multiple irregularities have already been reported. No public notice board, required by law, was displayed at the site. Locals claim the work is proceeding secretly with the knowledge of PAUBO Executive Engineer Rabiul Islam. The official plan called for profiling the embankment with bamboo, pegs, and coconut-husk ropes, bringing soil from distant areas, and planting grass and tree seedlings. Instead, a 300-metre stretch has been filled only with sand, and a dredger is being prepared to extract sand directly from the river. Day labourer Serajul Islam said, “Four of us work here extracting sand for Tk 3,000 per day. The Executive Engineer knows about it.” Residents say local political figures, including UP Chairman Ashraf, former member Wahed, UP member Bakul (BNP), and member Azharul, are involved in the illegal sand removal. Most of the sand is sold outside, not used for the embankment. A 70-year-old former WDB employee warned that continued sand extraction could destroy homes in future floods. Attempts to protest were reportedly stopped by the Executive Engineer. Read more: Project launched to boost climate resilience, food security in Cox’s Bazar Subcontractor Bharat Prasad admitted he is managing the work through local political leaders and had paused site visits due to disputes over bamboo supply. UP member Azharul Islam claimed, “We are all working together; there is no problem.” Other local political leaders, including Ashraf Ali (Jatiya Party), Chand Sarker (BNP), Rifat Chowdhury (NCP), and Nayebuzzaman (Jamaat-e-Islami), denied involvement. PAUBO Executive Engineer Rabiul Islam initially defended sand extraction but later admitted irregularities and said he halted the work, ordering sand removal and proper reconstruction. UNO Mahmud Hasan Mridha said an investigation will be conducted, with action taken as needed, supported by Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan. Read more: Teesta cries for survival as northern Bangladesh’s lifeline runs dry

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday (November 18) said the government is reviewing the proposed procurement of body cameras to ensure transparency, rational planning and appropriate use in sensitive operational areas. The initial proposal sought a very large number of body cameras, prompting the committees to ask the authorities concerned to revisit the plan, pricing and procurement method, he told reports after meetings of the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase at the Secretariat. He said the revised plan should adopt a more rational, need-based approach. “The procurement should be rational. We suggested that body cameras be used in particularly sensitive and critical areas, not everywhere,” he said, adding that the Home Ministry shares the same view. The adviser said the purpose of introducing body cameras is to strengthen monitoring, improve accountability and support evidence-based action. Read more: Govt to decide on body camera purchase for police within days: Finance Adviser “The idea is not to deploy body cameras indiscriminately but to ensure they serve their intended purpose where sensitivity and oversight are crucial,” he added. On whether the number of cameras will be reduced, Dr Salehuddin said rationalisation is likely. “The number will be reduced, but I cannot say by how much at this stage. We will be able to comment once the revised proposal is submitted,” he said. He added that the revised proposal will be placed very soon. On September 23, the government approved procurement of around 40,000 body cameras for police personnel ahead of the national election scheduled for February. The cameras are to be procured through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to ensure quality, transparency and neutrality. Dr Salehuddin earlier said buying through UNDP would help avoid controversies over quality and pricing as international tenders would be floated and responsibility placed with the agency. Read more: Govt okays procurement of new firearms for Ansar and VDP

Economist Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya on Saturday (8th November 2025) urged political parties to make a firm commitment in their election manifestos to eradicate all forms of discrimination from the country’s legal and social frameworks. “Political parties have to pledge to eradicate discrimination from the legal context in their election manifestos,” said Dr Debapriya, Convener of the Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh. He emphasised that the Citizen’s Platform is dedicated to eliminating discrimination in every form within legal and societal structures, and that the inclusion of such commitments in election manifestos would represent a strong step towards implementation in the future. Interim govt pursuing reforms without engaging stakeholders: Debapriya Dr Debapriya made the remarks while addressing the opening session of a dialogue titled “Elimination of Discrimination in Bangladesh: Legal Context, Current Reality, and Way Forward.” He highlighted the gap between constitutional promises and the lived realities of marginalised and vulnerable communities across the country. Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh organised the event in collaboration with the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST), Manusher Jonno Foundation, and Nagorik Uddyog (Citizen’s Initiative), with support from Switzerland and UNDP. Read more: Bangladesh Election: EC to begin political dialogues this week  

The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh on Sunday jointly hosted a national consultation in Dhaka to chart a roadmap for building a robust Research and Development (R&D) Cell within the BBS. Titled “Strengthening the BBS R&D Cell: Priorities for Excellence in Data and Research”, the event was supported by the Embassy of Switzerland and drew participation from over 100 stakeholders representing the government, academia, private sector, and development partners. The initiative aims to transform the proposed R&D Cell into a centre of excellence that fosters innovation, boosts statistical capacity, and promotes evidence-based policymaking in Bangladesh, said a press release. Aleya Akter, Secretary of the Statistics and Informatics Division, described the R&D Cell as a “timely and strategic investment,” underscoring the need to engage young researchers and align with global best practices. Mizanur Rahman, Deputy Director of BBS, said the Cell would enhance methodological integrity and adopt technologies like artificial intelligence to meet the growing demand for quality data at both national and international levels. Road Safety Act urged to protect pedestrians, cyclists UNDP Senior Economic Adviser Owais Parray stressed the importance of innovation, saying, “The Cell must become the engine of innovation—testing new tools and ensuring national statistics remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.” Highlighting the need for inclusive and timely data, UNDP’s Assistant Resident Representative Anowarul Haq called for stronger multi-stakeholder collaboration to realise the Cell’s full potential. In his concluding remarks, BBS Director General Mohammed Mizanur Rahman reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to establishing a future-ready R&D Cell grounded in strong partnerships. The consultation emphasised capacity building, inclusive data methodologies, and strategic collaboration as essential elements in modernising Bangladesh’s statistical ecosystem.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) on Thursday signed an agreement to modernise and digitise legal aid services across Bangladesh, aiming to ensure faster and more inclusive access to justice for vulnerable communities. The agreement was signed at the EU Delegation office in Dhaka by UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller and EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller, said a press release. Under the new initiative, an integrated legal aid system will be introduced featuring mobile applications, online case tracking and virtual mediation. The system is expected to enable citizens in remote and marginalised areas to access legal services without physically visiting courts. "This initiative marks a significant step forward in making justice more accessible for all,” said Stefan Liller. “Aligned closely with the ongoing justice sector reforms that UNDP and the EU are currently supporting, it builds upon our long-standing partnership in strengthening Village Courts, which already play a crucial role in resolving local disputes and serving rural communities." Initially, the project will be piloted in eight districts, targeting over 680,000 disadvantaged individuals. It will also prioritise inclusivity, gender-responsiveness, and accessibility for people with limited digital literacy. UN stands ready to help deliver lasting reform in Bangladesh: Gwyn Lewis  EU Ambassador Michael Miller said, “This agreement reflects the strong partnership between the Government of Bangladesh, the EU, and UNDP in improving access to justice for all. Whether through Village Courts or digital innovations, our joint efforts are creating a more efficient, inclusive, and responsive justice system.” The initiative will be implemented by the National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO) in collaboration with the UNDP and the EU. It aligns with Bangladesh’s 8th Five-Year Plan and contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. By introducing a unified digital platform accessible via phone, SMS, and online portals, the project also aims to reduce the burden on courts, enhance transparency, and build public trust in the justice system.

The Ambassadors of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, together with the Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, visited the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) this week, reaffirming their strong commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in the region. Led by Stefan Liller, UNDP Resident Representative, and joined by Christian Brix Møller (Denmark), Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen (Norway), and Nicolas Weeks (Sweden), the high-level delegation engaged with diverse indigenous communities, local government officials, women-led committees, and youth groups across Rangamati and Bandarban. The mission spotlighted key development initiatives implemented by UNDP with the government of Bangladesh and with Nordic support, ranging from health and education to climate resilience, gender-based violence prevention, and livelihood enhancement. The visit, from April 27 to 30, emphasized the importance of sustained development partnerships in CHT, a region marked by ethnic diversity and complex socio-political dynamics. Since the 1997 Peace Accord, the Chittagong Hill Tracts have gradually moved towards peace and progress, yet significant challenges remain in areas such as climate change adaptation, healthcare, education, gender equality, and the rights of indigenous peoples. “Denmark is proud of its long-standing support to the Chittagong Hill Tracts through UNDP,” said Christian Brix Møller, Ambassador of Denmark. “While challenges remain, particularly the full implementation of the CHT Peace Accord, we see strong potential for sustainable growth in areas like eco-tourism and organic agriculture. These sectors can empower communities and foster self-reliance. Denmark remains committed to working together to advance climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and the rights of indigenous peoples.” Bangladesh is modernising authentication process: MOFA During the mission, the delegation visited remote villages engaging with women-led Climate Resilience Committees, observing solar-powered school transportation, and interacting with community-based health workers and teachers. “It’s inspiring to see communities, especially women, taking the lead in their own development,” said Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, Ambassador of Norway. “Despite challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and limited access to education, their resilience is truly remarkable. Our visit to the Gender-Based Violence Victim Support Centre was particularly moving. The dedication of the team there is commendable. Supporting such essential services is vital to building safer, stronger communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.” The delegation also visited Village Common Forests (VCFs), and infrastructure projects aimed at improving basic service delivery. These interventions, many facilitated by UNDP in partnership with the Nordic countries, are integral to strengthening local governance and ensuring that no one is left behind in Bangladesh’s development journey. “It has been a privilege to spend these four days in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, engaging with its vibrant communities and witnessing their strength and resilience,” said Nicolas Weeks, Ambassador of Sweden. “It’s impressive to see how these communities are adapting to new realities and being positive role models for change and development. Sweden deeply values the cultural richness of this region. We are proud of our long-standing partnership with UNDP here in CHT, supporting efforts in education, healthcare, climate resilience, and gender equality.” “Our joint mission to the Chittagong Hill Tracts with the Ambassadors of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden has been a powerful reminder of the impact of long-term partnership,” said Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh. “For over two decades, support from these countries has enabled us to work alongside communities and government counterparts to drive inclusive, sustainable development.”

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh recently recognized three university clubs for their innovative ideas and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about air pollution. Starting on a small scale in 2023, UNDP launched the "Breathe Well Dhaka" campaign to address growing concerns over air quality in the capital. Encouraged by an overwhelming response, the initiative expanded in 2024 into a nationwide campaign titled "Let's Breathe Well," engaging students’ clubs from different universities across the country to propose innovative solutions for air pollution. The second phase of the campaign saw participation from 174 university clubs representing 64 universities, submitting their ideas to combat air pollution. An expert jury board reviewed the submissions and selected the top three clubs Team Airrow BRACU, IPE Pokayoke RUET and Air Savvy Med Squad BMSS for their impactful initiatives. The campaign reached around 4 million people altogether. Team Airrow from BRAC University focused on mobilising communities in lower-income areas, ensuring access to critical information about air pollution. IPE Pokayoke from Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET) emphasised educating school students, fostering long-term awareness. A medical student club Air Savvy Med Squad addressed the issue of medical waste contributing to air pollution and engaged with patients to promote mask usage for health protection. Arif Mohammad Faisal, Programme Specialist - Environmental Sustainability and Energy, UNDP, served as one of the jury members and praised the innovative ideas presented. "The submissions were so relevant and forward-thinking that selecting the top three was a challenge. It is encouraging to see so many young minds engaged in tackling air pollution. We should consider forming a dedicated task force to advocate for lasting improvements in air quality," he remarked. Md Abdul Quayyum, Head of Communications, UNDP Bangladesh, while addressing the closing and prize-giving ceremony, said, "The energy and creativity these students have shown are truly inspiring. This online campaign has proven the power of youth in advocating for a cleaner environment. This is just the beginning. We will continue to support initiatives like these, working alongside other UNDP projects to address air pollution at all levels. Together, we can build a sustainable and healthier future for Bangladesh."

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) wants to extend support in training the polling agents of all candidates, not political parties, ahead of the next general election, said Election Commission Secretary Akhtar Ahmed on Thursday. “No training for parties. If we can work (training for) together with the agents of the parties who will be at the polling stations, we will get better results. They (United Nations electoral need assessment team) have received such demand from the field,” he said. National election likely by year end or early 2026: EC Masud The EC secretary said this, replying to a question from reporters after his meeting with an UNDP delegation, led by UNDP resident representative Stefan Liller in Nirbachan Bhaban here. Akhtar Ahmed said the UNDP team sat with the Election Commission after 10 days to inform the electoral need assessment report. "They came back today after 10 days and gave us feedback. They talked to various political parties and civil society. They saw the situation firsthand. Based on this, they decided to provide us with some assistance,” he said. The EC senior secretary said the UNDP will support the commission over some logistics such as cameras, computers, hardware; and training to develop skills of the officials and also stakeholders.  2024: A year of mass uprising that reshaped Bangladesh’s Election Commission The UNDP wants to provide assistance over training of agents of all candidates, he added.   Following meetings with the election commissioners and EC officials on January 14, the UNDP started assessing the needs to provide assistance to the Election Commission to hold the next parliamentary elections. The need assessment was completed within 10 days following talks with the Commission and other stakeholders, including civil society, academicians and political parties. Election Commission ramps up preparations for national election   Earlier, the Election Commission sent the United Nations a letter requesting assistance before the UN could provide technical assistances to the commission.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday said the Election Commission is working to clear all doubts over the electoral rolls. “We are doing it (updating the voter lists) to clear the doubts. We are engaging so many people in the field. We are certainly hopeful that all doubts will be cleared, Inshallah,” he said, replying to a question from reporters at an event held in Nirbachan Bhaban here. In the function, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) provided some instruments to help the voter list updating programme that will begin on Monday throughout the country. Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh Stefan Liller handed over 175 laptops, 200 scanners and 4300 bags to the CEC. Nasir Uddin said they have planned to complete the voter list updating programme within six months and some 65,000 people will work in this huge programme. “We will have frantic efforts to finish this job by this six months,” he said. Read: Some 1.8 million new voters added to draft voter list: EC The CEC said some 65,000 people will work at different levels so that the commission can complete this work quickly and within the specified time as the EC has taken a huge programme. Replying to a question over BNP's demand for holding the national election in the middle of this year, the CEC said they don't enter into political statements (debates) and will stay within the laws, rules, and regulations. “We want to present free and fair elections,” he said. When asked whether the Commission is working within the government’s declared timeline, the CEC confirmed their preparations align with the timeframe outlined by the chief adviser. “We are working with that in mind,” he said. Read more: BNP reveals 10-point proposal for electoral reforms; wants tech-aided upgrade of voter list About UNDP's support, he said the EC would seek assistance from UNDP throughout the electoral process. “We hope they will continue to support us,” he said.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has started assessing the needs to provide assistance to the Election Commission to hold the next parliamentary elections. The UNDP will complete the need assessment within 10 days following talks with the Commission and other stakeholders, including civil society, academicians and political parties. “The Election Commission sent the United Nations a letter requesting assistance before the UN could provide technical assistances to the Bangladesh Election Commission. We need to do need assessment,” said United Nations Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis in Bangladesh after a meeting with the EC on Tuesday. A UNDP delegation, accompanied by a need assessment mission came from New York, first met Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and then four election commissioners and EC officials at the Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital. Based on the talks with stakeholders, there will be some recommendations made the election commission over what technical supports the UN could provide, said the UN resident coordinator. She said the UNDP may extend assistance for a wide range of issues, including capacity development, technology support, help over misinformation and disinformation. Replying to a question, she said, “We’re really on the first days and trying to understand what the needs of the Election Commission are and understand how the Election Commission like to run the elections and there are already works in terms of updating the electoral rolls.” Govt demands clarification from UN on Rohingya exodus report Noting that the door-to-door works are going to start to update the electoral rolls, she said some technologies might be need there. Gwyn Lewis said the EC has made a request for technical supports for different aspects of the works ranging from IT capacity development, help with misinformation and disinformation and wide range of issues. “The (need assessment) mission will finish it within 10 days and will come back here to present it before the EC,” she said. EC senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said the commission sought assistance from the UNDP for the election process. The assistance is related to technology --hardware and software—, training for capacity building, development of communication materials and other issues, he said adding that the delegation came here to review the needs. “They have talked to us and will talk to other stakeholders.  They will come back to us with a proposal over the needs within 10 days,” he said. Denmark, AUW to promote women´s climate leadership Replying to a question about the timeframe of the next general election, the EC Secretary said the CEC and other election commissioners said that they were working in line with the window given by the Chief Adviser. Citing an example, Akhtar Ahmed said the UNDP would not assist to collect data during the door-to-door campaign rather help to process data to update the electoral rolls.