Advisory Council Approves Ordinances on Enforced Disappearance and Wetland Protection; New Embassy in Switzerland

The Council of Advisers, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, approved several landmark decisions during its weekly meeting today. These include new legal frameworks to address enforced disappearances, the protection of wetlands, and the expansion of Bangladesh's diplomatic presence in Europe.

Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress Ordinance 2025: The tribunal can now officially declare a person "disappeared" if they remain missing for at least five years. Victims' families are granted the right to use the disappeared person’s property without prior commission approval. Complainants may appoint their own lawyers, while public prosecutors will be appointed based on National Human Rights Commission recommendations.

Bangladesh Haor and Wetland Conservation Ordinance 2025: The ordinance establishes clear jurisdictions for the Haor and Wetland Development Department. It introduces protection orders for biodiversity and specifies prohibited activities, carrying penalties for violations. All development projects in these areas now require a mandatory departmental opinion to ensure ecological safety.

New Embassy in Bern, Switzerland: The government will establish a full embassy in the Swiss capital to separate UN-related work (Geneva) from bilateral diplomatic functions. This will be Bangladesh’s 83rd mission globally, strengthening ties with Switzerland as a key strategic partner.

Health Update on Sharif Osman Hadi: The Council discussed the critical condition of July Uprising fighter Sharif Osman Hadi, who is currently receiving treatment in Singapore. A senior Foreign Ministry official is currently in Singapore to oversee his care, with Singapore's Foreign Minister providing regular updates.