Human Rights Law at Bangladesh
Human rights law in Bangladesh is shaped by a combination of its Constitution, domestic legislation, and international obligations. Here's an overview:
1. Constitutional Provisions
The Constitution of Bangladesh (1972) is the primary legal document guaranteeing fundamental human rights. Key articles include:
Article 27: Equality before law.
Article 28: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Article 31: Right to protection of law.
Article 32: Right to life and personal liberty.
Article 33: Safeguards as to arrest and detention.
Article 35: Protection in respect of trial and punishment (no ex post facto laws, double jeopardy, or torture).
However, these rights can be restricted during a state of emergency.
2. Domestic Laws
Several national laws protect and enforce human rights in practice:
The Penal Code 1860: Contains provisions on crimes like murder, assault, and trafficking.
The Women and Children Repression Prevention Act 2000: Addresses violence against women and children.
The Child Act 2013: Focuses on child protection and welfare.
The Right to Information Act 2009: Promotes transparency in government.
3. International Human Rights Obligations
Bangladesh is a party to key international human rights instruments, including:
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)
Convention Against Torture (CAT)
Despite ratification, implementation and enforcement often face challenges due to limited resources, political influence, and institutional inefficiencies.
4. Enforcement Mechanisms and Challenges
Judiciary: The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has played a role in expanding rights through public interest litigation (PIL).
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): Established in 2009 to monitor and address human rights violations.
Challenges: Include custodial torture, enforced disappearances, limited press freedom, and discrimination against minorities.
RELATED Blog
0 comments