Staff Reporter:
Media professionals have been urged to serve as vigilant watchdogs in the implementation of judicial reform and the promotion of judicial independence in Bangladesh.
The call came during a day-long workshop held Thursday(may 8) at the National Institute of Mass Communication (NIMC), organised for members of the Law Reporters Forum.
The workshop, jointly supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Swedish Embassy, and the Supreme Court, aimed to engage legal and justice-focused journalists in ongoing reform efforts.
In his keynote address, Supreme Court Registrar General Dr. Aziz Ahmed Bhuiyan highlighted progress under the Chief Justice’s judicial reform roadmap, noting that several initiatives have already been implemented.
“The establishment of a separate judicial secretariat is among the key proposals currently underway,” he said, adding that media can play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and public accountability throughout the reform process.
Joining virtually, the Ambassador of Sweden welcomed participants and reaffirmed Sweden’s strong support for judicial independence and justice sector reform in Bangladesh. He emphasised that such efforts are essential for safeguarding democracy and human rights.
UNDP Bangladesh’s Adviser on Law, Justice, and Security, Romana Schweiger, stressed the importance of digitising court administration to enhance judicial efficiency and accessibility.
She also noted that UNDP is advocating for the creation of independent prosecution and investigation bodies to strengthen the delivery of justice.
Anowarul Huq, UNDP Assistant Resident Representative, informed participants that public consultations on judicial reform have already been held in seven regions across the country, aiming to raise citizen awareness and engagement.
NIMC Director General Md. Kawsar Ahammed formally inaugurated the workshop. Other speakers included Dr. Md. Maruf Nawaz, Director of Training Programs at NIMC, while Assistant Director Tanzim Tamanna moderated the sessions. Deputy Director Mohammad Abu Sadek was also present.
The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates to all 40 participating members of the Law Reporters Forum, recognising their commitment to responsible legal journalism.
