Staff Reporter :
The United Nations has pledged its full support to Bangladesh as the country undertakes critical reforms, particularly in policing and electoral processes, as part of a comprehensive restructuring initiative led by the interim government.
The assurance was made by Gwyn Lewis, the UN’s Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, during a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at his Tejgaon office on Sunday.
The meeting covered a broad spectrum of topics, including ongoing reforms, corruption, flood recovery, the Rohingya crisis, and the UN-led investigation into the violent incidents of July and August.
UN COMMENDS REFORM EFFORTS
Gwyn Lewis praised the interim government’s reform initiatives and expressed her gratitude to Professor Yunus for his extraordinary leadership during the challenging post-revolution period.
“We are committed to supporting these reforms, especially in critical areas like policing and elections,” she said.
Professor Yunus, in turn, described this moment as a “great opportunity” for the nation to reform its economy and overhaul its institutions. “This is the most unifying moment for the country. Our primary goal is to set an example for future administrations,” he added.
FOCUS ON POLICE AND ELECTORAL REFORMS
One of the main points of discussion was the reform of Bangladesh’s security forces, particularly the police. Professor Yunus assured Lewis that police reform is a top priority for the interim government. He also highlighted the administration’s plan to implement an integrated national IT system aimed at modernising public services, reducing corruption, improving accountability, and cutting bureaucratic delays.
Regarding electoral reform, Professor Yunus shared that a special commission has been formed to overhaul the country’s electoral system. The aim is to ensure free and fair elections in the future, restoring public confidence in the democratic process.
UN-LED INVESTIGATION AND HUMANITARIAN AID
Addressing the violent events that occurred in July and August, Gwyn Lewis informed the Chief Adviser that a UN-led investigation team has already begun probing the unrest and related murders. She added that UN agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) are working to provide medical and psychological support to the victims of the violence.
On the humanitarian front, Lewis noted that the UN has already contributed four million dollars for post-flood rehabilitation efforts in eastern and southern
Bangladesh. Around 18 million people have been affected by the floods since the start of the monsoon season, and the UN has been coordinating relief efforts with local agencies and charitable organisations.
CALL FOR EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS AND CLIMATE ACTION
Professor Yunus also sought the UN’s assistance in establishing an early warning system for floods in South Asia, which he believes would help mitigate future disasters in the region. Discussions also touched on climate change, environmental concerns, and the ongoing issues in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Lewis briefed Yunus on the UN’s work in the region, particularly its support for local communities.
ROHINGYA CRISIS AND YOUTH DISCONTENT
The Rohingya crisis was another significant topic of discussion. Professor Yunus urged the UN to continue its efforts in securing a brighter future for the children living in refugee camps. He expressed concern over the growing disillusionment among the youth in the camps, warning, “A whole generation of angry young people is growing up there.”
Gwyn Lewis reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to addressing these pressing challenges, offering a wide range of support to help Bangladesh navigate this critical period of transition and reform. The UN, she said, will continue to provide both technical and humanitarian aid to support Bangladesh’s institutional rebuilding efforts.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the face of Bangladesh’s current challenges, while working towards a more prosperous and stable future.