UN to Support Bangladesh in Reforms and Flood Rehabilitation Initiatives

The United Nations has pledged its support to Bangladesh across a range of areas, including police reforms and election restructuring, as the interim government embarks on a significant overhaul of the country’s institutions, according to the UN’s resident coordinator in Dhaka.

UN Chief in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis, gave this assurance during a courtesy meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at his Tejgaon office on Sunday.

In their discussions, they addressed topics including institutional reforms, corruption, flood rehabilitation, the Rohingya crisis, and the UN-led investigation into the violence that occurred in July and August.

Gwyn Lewis expressed her support for the interim government's reform initiatives and commended Professor Yunus for his "extraordinary leadership" as head of the post-revolution administration.

Professor Yunus described this period as the "most unifying moment" for the nation, emphasising that his government's primary task was to "set a positive example" for the country.

"This is a unique opportunity for Bangladesh to reform the economy and overhaul almost every key institution," he added.

Gwyn Lewis also inquired about reforms in the security forces, particularly in the police administration. Professor Yunus affirmed that police reform is a top priority for the government.

He further stated that the government is committed to establishing an integrated national IT system aimed at reducing corruption and easing bureaucratic inefficiencies.

In addition, the chief adviser revealed that a commission has been formed to undertake major electoral reforms to ensure free and fair elections.

Lewis noted that the UN-led investigation into the murders and violence during the July-August period has already commenced. She added that UN agencies, including the WHO and ILO, are exploring ways to support injured victims and those traumatised by the unrest.

The UN resident coordinator also highlighted the organisation’s contribution of $4 million for post-flood rehabilitation in Bangladesh's eastern and southern regions. She mentioned that around 18 million people have been affected by floods since the start of the monsoon, and the UN is coordinating aid efforts with various agencies and charities to support the victims.

Professor Yunus sought UN assistance in establishing an early warning system for floods in South Asia.

The meeting also covered discussions on environmental issues, climate change, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Lewis outlined the UN’s aid efforts in the region’s three hill districts.

Professor Yunus additionally called for UN support in creating a better future for Rohingya children in refugee camps, warning that "a whole generation of angry young people is growing up there."