On 10 December 2016, NHRCB celebrates international Human Rights Day 2016. It commemorates the day on which, in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 1950, the Assembly passed resolution 423 (V), inviting all States and interested organizations to observe 10 December of each year as Human Rights Day.

This year the theme of the day is set “Stand up for someone’s rights today” on the canvas of the global social scenario where disrespect for basic human rights continues to reign in full swing. Extremist movements are causing people to suffer from horrific violences. Messages of intolerance and hatred are adding to our sufferings and fears. Humane values are getting shattered. We must reaffirm our common humanity. Wherever we are in the street, in school, at work, in public transport, in the voting booth, on social media we can make a difference. The time for this is now. “We the peoples” can take a stand for rights. And together, we can take a stand for more humanity.

The day witnesses a grand rally followed by a seminar by a panel of distinguished guests. The rally starts from TSC, Dhaka University and reaches at CIRDAP premise. After the rally, a Seminar is held at CIRDAP auditorium. Advocate Anisul Huq, MP, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs addresses the seminar as Chief Guest. NHRCB Chairman Kazi Reazul Hoque presides over the seminar. Md. Nazrul Islam, Full-Time Member, NHRCB delivers welcome speech. M. Amir-Ul Islam, Barrister-at-Law, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of Bangladesh presents the key note paper on “STAND UP FOR SOMEONE'S RIGHT TODAY”. Mr. Nick Beresford, Deputy Country Director, UNDP- Bangladesh attends the seminar as special guest.

Kazi Reazul Hoque, Chairman, NHRCB says that though the government takes initiatives to ensure human rights, challenges remains as common people are still being subjected to serious rights violation. He urges that the government should enact the Anti-discrimination Law as soon as possible. In response, in his speech, Advocate Anisul Huq, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs says that the Anti-Discrimination Law will be passed within two months. Mr. Nick Beresford gives emphasize on the point that children should be taught human rights at schools because they need to be made aware of human rights at an early age. Nurun Naher Osmani and Enamul Hoque Choudhury, Members of NHRCB have been present at the seminar. Mr. Hiranmaya Barai, Secretary, NHRCB delivers vote of thanks.

The seminar encompasses open discussion where representatives from government organizations, NGOs, Civil Society Organizations and media participates. NHRCB also celebrates the day in its district offices in Khulna and Rangamati.

Kazi Reazul Hoque, Honorable Chairman,                    Advocate Anisul Huq MP, Honorable Law Minister,

NHRCB addressing the seminar                                delivering speech