DHAKA, Dec 12, 2024 (BSS) - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Sweden signed an agreement on Wednesday at the Embassy of Sweden to advance governance reforms in Bangladesh.
 
This strategic partnership is designed to support ongoing efforts to enhance accountability and human rights, promote gender-responsive governance, and rebuild public trust in the justice and law enforcement systems, a UNDP press release said today.
 
The agreement falls under UNDP's Integrated Support for Advancing Reforms and Democratic Governance in Bangladesh portfolio, which aims to provide technical advisory and implementation support for the governance reforms agenda of the Interim Government.
 
Speaking at the signing ceremony, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller said, "This partnership underscores the shared commitment of UNDP and Sweden to advancing rights-based and equitable access to justice and to strengthening the rule of law in Bangladesh. Together, we aim to support reforms that address systemic and structural challenges, and foster a safer, more inclusive society for all."
 
Nicolas Weeks, Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh, added, "This initiative will focus on improving institutional integrity and independence for delivering rule of law and access to justice for all, within a human rights and gender equality framework. This will be informed by consultations with diverse and marginalized groups, involving women, youth and minorities."
 
Together, the Swedish ambassador said, UNDP and Sweden aim to drive positive change in increasing accountability, inclusivity and equity in Bangladesh's governance landscape.