Bangladesh Reaffirms Commitment to Rights in OHCHR Meeting

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on Sunday highlighted the government's priorities of strengthening democracy, promoting good governance and safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and of the press.

He made the remarks when Sabine Magdalena Lauber, the newly appointed Chief of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Mission in Bangladesh, presented her credentials to him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Welcoming Lauber and congratulating her on assuming office, Kobir reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to constructive engagement with OHCHR.

He also underscored the importance of building strong institutions through legal and institutional reforms.

Kobir highlighted Bangladesh's continued engagement with UN Special Procedures mandate holders and exchanged views on the forthcoming visits of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar and the Special Rapporteur on the right to education.

The state minister called on the OHCHR Mission to ensure that its programmes and activities remained aligned with the government's priorities.

He assured Lauber of the government's full support and cooperation in carrying out her responsibilities in Bangladesh.

In response, Lauber expressed appreciation for the government's constructive engagement and reaffirmed OHCHR's readiness to support Bangladesh's efforts to promote and protect human rights and strengthen relevant institutions.

She also outlined her priorities and planned activities during her tenure, emphasising the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation with the Bangladesh government.

Lauber is the first Chief of the OHCHR Mission in Bangladesh. The mission was established under a three-year memorandum of understanding signed by the Bangladesh government and OHCHR in July 2025.