Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman today underscored that ensuring access to justice is an integral part of protecting human rights and is a fundamental responsibility of the state. Speaking at the inauguration of a two-day coordination meeting on the 'Accelerating Digital Legal Aid Services in Bangladesh' project, he highlighted that access to justice extends beyond dispute resolution and mediation, aiming to preserve, protect, and ensure the human rights of every citizen. He emphasized that even those accused of serious crimes have the right to defend themselves, and the state must uphold this right.
The event, held at BRAC-CDM in Rajendrapur, Gazipur, brought together judges, legal aid officers, and other stakeholders. Minister Asaduzzaman urged judges to interpret laws not only through the 'black letters of the law' but also in light of the facts of each case, the social context, and the objectives of justice. He stressed the importance of a holistic approach to legal interpretation to ensure fair and just outcomes for all citizens.
During the meeting, the law minister directed the Director General of the Directorate of Bangladesh Legal Aid to take necessary steps to recognize eight 'Best Legal Aid Officers'—one from each of the country's eight divisions—for their outstanding performance in providing legal aid services. He also called for initiatives to recognize 20 judicial officers nationwide for their exemplary performance in the judiciary.
Recognizing these officials, Asaduzzaman said, would encourage them to improve their performance and would be positively considered for financial incentives, promotions, and important postings. Such recognition is crucial for motivating legal professionals and ensuring the continuous improvement of legal services in Bangladesh.
The meeting was chaired by Director General of the Directorate of Bangladesh Legal Aid, Md Monjurul Hossain. Notable speakers included UNDP Bangladesh Senior Rule of Law, Justice and Security Adviser Romana Schweiger, EU Charge d'Affaires to Bangladesh Baiba Zarina, and Law and Justice Division Secretary Liaquet Ali Molla. Their participation underscores the international community's interest and support for enhancing legal aid services in Bangladesh.
On the second day of the meeting, district and sessions judges will discuss training, activities of Legal Aid Committees, and the preservation and reporting of legal aid-related data. The meeting will also review ways to ensure judicial services and legal aid for women, persons with disabilities, and people living in poverty, and identify areas for improving digital services. This comprehensive approach aims to make legal aid more accessible and effective for all segments of society.
Ensuring access to justice is crucial for Bangladesh, where many citizens face barriers to legal services. By recognizing outstanding legal professionals and improving digital legal aid services, the state can better protect human rights and provide fair and equitable justice for all.
