Regional Discussion Explores Key Reforms to Strengthen Judiciary with UNDP and Swedish Embassy Support
Judges recommit to upholding judicial independence in the Supreme Court’s reform discussion in Rajshahi supported by UNDP
February 1, 2025

Judges, legal experts, and development partners at the Supreme Court’s regional reform seminar in Rajshahi, supported by UNDP and the Embassy of Sweden, reaffirming commitment to judicial independence and efficiency.
The Supreme Court of Bangladesh, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Embassy of Sweden, organized a regional seminar in Rajshahi on February 01, 2025, as part of a series of divisional-level discussions on judicial independence and efficiency. This initiative takes stock of the implementation of the Chief Justice’s Reform Roadmap, aiming to strengthen the judiciary through legislative advancements, digital innovation, and capacity development and promotes its advancement.

Chief Justice of Bangladesh, Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed, emphasized the importance of people-centred reforms in lines with international standards and norms noting “Judicial independence ensures that judges make decisions based on the law and their conscience, free from external pressures. Independence must be supported by efficiency and accountability.” He further highlighted the progress made under the reform agenda, stating, “Our judiciary, particularly the district judiciary, has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and resilience in embracing and implementing the reforms outlined in our roadmap and UNDP has been instrumental in advancing our reform initiatives.”
Justice Md. Ashfaqul Islam, Honourable Judge of Appellate Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh also addressed the seminar, emphasizing the crucial role of an autonomous judiciary in upholding justice and equality.

UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller highlighted the longstanding partnership between UNDP and the Supreme Court, underscoring the importance of a fair and efficient judiciary for public trust and the rule of law. “UNDP’s support to justice reforms at this crucial time for Bangladesh builds on years of collaboration, and we are proud to have engaged with the Supreme Court and Bangladesh’s judiciary for more than a decade through diverse areas of technical assistance and implementation support. Our support to improve access to justice in Bangladesh aims to put people – their needs, aspirations and specific requirements for protection and support – at the center of our programs.”
The seminar highlighted key elements of the judicial reform agenda, focusing on several critical areas. It emphasized the establishment of a Secretariat to strengthen judicial independence, alongside the reform of judicial appointment systems to ensure fairness and transparency. Additionally, the importance of strengthening a professional prosecution service, judicial integrity and accountability was discussed, alongside efforts to reduce case backlogs and improve overall efficiency. Expanding legal aid was identified as a priority to ensure fair representation for all while advancing digitalization was seen as essential for enhancing the efficiency of judicial services. Participants stated support for the establishment of commercial courts.
The discussions will continue in Rangpur, Khulna, Mymensingh and Barishal as part of the Supreme Court’s broader reform agenda. UNDP remains committed to providing expertise and assistance in implementing these crucial reforms.
Maria Stridsman, Head of the Swedish Development Cooperation and Charge de Affairs of the Swedish Embassy in Bangladesh, reaffirmed Sweden’s dedication to supporting justice and governance reforms in Bangladesh.
Later a technical session on Judicial Independence and Efficiency was held.