Lawmakers unite for disability rights caucus

The government has pledged to establish a parliamentary caucus on disability rights, with lawmakers from different political parties expressing their willingness to join the proposed platform to strengthen legislation, policy oversight and accountability for the rights of persons with disabilities.

The commitment came at a high-level consultation on the formation of the caucus, jointly organised by Sightsavers, Democracy International (DI) and the Blind Education and Rehabilitation Development Organization (BERDO) in the capital on Saturday, according to a press release.

State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr MA Muhit, who attended the consultation as chief guest, agreed to serve as convener of the proposed caucus.

BNP Standing Committee member and MP Selima Rahman and Jamaat-e-Islami Women’s Wing secretary and MP Nurunnisa Siddiqua agreed to serve as co-conveners.

Other participating MPs included Mohammed Akteruzzaman, Newaz Halima Arli, Mahbuba Hakim, Nazmun Nahar, Nusrat Tabassum Joty, Nilufar Chowdhury Moni, Sunsila Jabrin and Tasmia Prodhan.

Representatives of Organisations of People with Disabilities (OPDs), persons with disabilities, development partners, UN agencies, NGOs, INGOs, academia and the media also attended.

The participating lawmakers pledged to work collectively to advance the rights, dignity and inclusion of persons with disabilities, stressing that disability rights should remain a national priority.

They also recognised the need for a dedicated parliamentary mechanism to drive legislative action, oversee policy implementation and ensure accountability.

A keynote presentation by Dr Nafeesur Rahman highlighted the potential of a dedicated parliamentary platform to strengthen legislative oversight, influence policymaking and accelerate implementation of disability rights commitments.

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The consultation discussed the proposed caucus’s roles and functions, including promoting disability-inclusive laws and policies, advocating adequate budget allocations, monitoring implementation and facilitating regular engagement among lawmakers, persons with disabilities, OPDs, civil society and development partners.

Speakers said Bangladesh had made significant progress in disability legislation, but a parliamentary caucus could help sustain political commitment, coordinate action across sectors and ensure disability inclusion remains embedded in national development efforts.

Sightsavers Country Director Amrita Rejina Rozario, DI Chief of Party Aminul Ehsan and BERDO Executive Director Md Saidul Huq reiterated their organisations’ commitment to supporting the establishment of the caucus and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders.