Ireland Offers Post-Conflict Expertise to Aid Bangladesh's Police Reform for Accountable Governance

Ireland has formally offered to share its experience and expertise in police reform with Bangladesh to support the country's drive for accountable and rights-based governance following the July 2024 uprising.

The proposal was made during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus by the non-resident Ambassador of Ireland, Kevin Kelly, and Baroness Nuala O'Loan, the first Police Ombudsman of Northern Ireland. Baroness O'Loan, whose visit highlights the initiative, emphasized that Ireland's own post-conflict experience provides valuable lessons in patience, inclusion, and realistic timelines for long-term institutional change, stemming from her seven years as Police.

Ombudsman after the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Professor Yunus welcomed the support, valuing Ireland's continued engagement in Bangladesh's reform and transition. He also sought Ambassador Kelly's cooperation in addressing the spread of disinformation ahead of the February 2026 national election.

Ambassador Kelly reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to deepening their partnership based on shared values of peace, justice, and democracy. The British High Commissioner, Sarah Cooke, was also present at the meeting.