Bangladesh is undertaking a pivotal reform initiative with the establishment of a Police Reform Commission led by former home secretary Safar Raj Hussain.
This effort forms part of wider governmental reforms aimed at addressing entrenched issues within the police force, which has long been dogged by allegations of human rights abuses, a lack of accountability, excessive politicisation, and a strained relationship with the public.
A chance for reform offers a vital opportunity to transform the police into a democratic, transparent, and community-focused institution.
Current challenges
Since gaining independence, Bangladesh’s police have often served as a political tool, expected to cater to the interests of ruling parties rather than citizens.
This politicisation has led to a culture of impunity, with officers often acting beyond the law and engaging in extrajudicial activities. International scrutiny, exemplified by US Treasury sanctions under the Magnitsky Act against the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), underscores global concerns over such abuses.
Internally, the police force grapples with chronic issues such as inadequate resources, poor training, and meagre salaries that undermine professionalism and public service.
A rigid command structure further limits transparency and fosters inefficiency and misuse of power.
Corruption is rampant, with Transparency International ranking Bangladesh’s police among the most corrupt public institutions in South Asia.
Bribery and extortion are common, particularly at local levels, often driven by the need to supplement low salaries.
This systemic corruption has eroded public trust, as officers fabricate cases or accept bribes to shield offenders.
Data from the US Department of State, Transparency International, and other watchdogs reveal that corruption and rights abuses within law enforcement contribute significantly to socio-political instability.
For instance, the Transparency International Global Corruption Barometer indicates that nearly 72% of surveyed Bangladeshis felt compelled to bribe police officers.
Regarding human rights, domestic rights groups estimate that over a thousand cases of extrajudicial killings have occurred in recent years, many linked to RAB or other police units operating beyond judicial oversight.
Road to reform: Structural and legal changes
The proposed reforms aim to modernise outdated practices and laws.
Currently, Bangladesh’s law enforcement framework, heavily reliant on colonial-era codes, lacks modern accountability mechanisms.
Updating these laws to align with international human rights norms is crucial for guiding police conduct and embedding legal checks on power.
Key reform measures may include revamping training protocols and shifting the focus from militaristic tactics to community engagement.
Training should emphasise de-escalation, conflict resolution, and human rights, transforming police culture from one of authoritarianism to public service.
An independent body to handle complaints and investigate police misconduct could enhance accountability.
Such entities have proven effective in building public trust in other countries.
Improving working conditions and raising salaries would mitigate corruption.
Poor resources and low pay often drive unethical behaviour; better remuneration and conditions could encourage integrity.
Additionally, decentralising command structures could foster accountability.
Empowering local police stations and officers to make decisions tailored to community needs would enhance responsiveness and adaptability.
Building trust
Adopting community policing can help bridge the gap between the police and the public.
Successful examples from Japan and the UK illustrate how community-focused strategies foster trust through collaborative problem-solving.
In Bangladesh, this could involve regular outreach, forming neighbourhood forums, and cooperative efforts with local leaders.
Such initiatives would transform the police from a force of oppression to one of public support and safety.
International pressure
Bangladesh’s police and RAB face severe accusations, including extrajudicial killings and torture. International sanctions highlight the need to address these issues urgently.
Reforms must incorporate human rights training and stricter regulations governing the use of force.
Establishing an independent accountability mechanism to investigate and discipline implicated officers is vital to mitigate international criticism and ensure justice for victims.
A truth and reconciliation commission could further promote restorative justice, acknowledging past wrongs and fostering reconciliation.
More modernisation
Restoring public trust hinges on transparency. Reforms should enable public access to police records, especially in misconduct cases, to allow citizen and advocacy group oversight.
Technological tools such as body and dashboard cameras can provide objective evidence, discouraging abuse.
Digital record-keeping and real-time monitoring would also promote efficiency and transparency.
Impacts of reform
Police reform carries broad socio-economic implications.
An accountable, community-focused police force can attract foreign investment, as potential investors often assess law enforcement environments.
A fair police service can reduce crime, foster safer communities, and stimulate tourism and economic growth.
Socially, reform can mend divisions between law enforcement and marginalised communities, enhancing citizens’ security and willingness to collaborate with police.
Implementation challenges
Reform efforts will face resistance, particularly from entrenched interests within the police and political spheres.
Logistical challenges, including funding and training, may also hinder progress.
Engaging civil society, NGOs, and local leaders will be crucial to building public support. International partnerships with experienced law enforcement reform bodies could offer valuable assistance.
The current reform efforts, led by Safar Raj Hussain, present an opportunity to address deep-rooted issues within Bangladesh’s law enforcement.
A transparent, accountable, and community-engaged police system could rebuild public trust, reduce rights abuses, and create a safer society.
Achieving this transformation will require commitment, resources, and political will, but the potential rewards for Bangladesh’s democratic, social, and economic development make it a worthy pursuit.
In the long term, successful police reform in Bangladesh could become a cornerstone of a strengthened democratic foundation, transforming the police from an instrument of repression into one of true public service and steering the nation towards a more equitable and just future.
