Bangladesh and UNESCO have moved forward with plans to strengthen cooperation in police capacity-building, with a focus on training, media engagement, and the promotion of freedom of expression.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and a three-member UNESCO delegation at the Jatiya Sangsad premises on Wednesday, according to an official press release.
The delegation was led by UNESCO Country Representative Susan Vize and included Farhana Shahnaz, head of Communication and Information, and Shakil M Faisal, head of Media and Information Project.
Talks centred on enhancing police training programmes, improving relations between law enforcement agencies and the media, and ensuring the protection of freedom of expression. Opportunities for training journalists were also discussed.
Welcoming the delegation, the home minister congratulated Susan Vize on her recent appointment. In response, she reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with Bangladesh in training initiatives for both police personnel and media professionals.
Susan Vize said UNESCO has already engaged with the Inspector General of Police on training programmes and expressed optimism that, pending approval from the ministry, the initiative could begin as early as June.
The home minister gave his initial approval and instructed relevant authorities to take necessary steps to implement the programme.
According to UNESCO, around 700 police officers at the level of superintendent of police (SP) and officer-in-charge (OC) have already received training ahead of previous national elections.
The organisation is now planning to expand such programmes and include training sessions for journalists as well.
Salahuddin Ahmed proposed broadening the scope of the initiative to cover officers at the DIG and SP levels at divisional headquarters, particularly those assigned to media-related duties within the police.
He also suggested scheduling the training sessions on Saturdays to ensure maximum participation.
Reiterating the government’s position, the minister said Bangladesh supports freedom of the press and expression, while also emphasising the need for accountability and responsible practice.
He highlighted the importance of building stronger understanding and cooperation between journalists and law enforcement agencies.
Senior officials from the Home Ministry, including Joint Secretary Rebeka Khan and Deputy Secretary Begum Minara Nazmeen, were present at the meeting.
