The United Nations has adopted Bangladesh’s proposal to withdraw its reservation on Article 14(1) of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The decision aims to ensure effective compensation and rehabilitation rights for victims of state-perpetrated torture or enforced disappearance. The proposal was approved on December 29 at a weekly meeting of the Advisory Council chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, according to a press release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.

The convention, adopted in 1984 and ratified by 173 states, was joined by Bangladesh in 1998. Along with the Bahamas, Fiji, New Zealand, Samoa, and the United States, Bangladesh had initially placed a reservation on Article 14(1), limiting victims’ access to full compensation and rehabilitation. The withdrawal of this reservation now opens the way for victims and their dependents to claim fair and adequate compensation.

The Advisory Council described the move as a historic step that will strengthen Bangladesh’s international image in human rights protection and enhance state accountability and transparency. The decision fulfills a long-standing demand of human rights advocates in the country.