Security Sector Reform and Governance in Bangladesh: Gaps and Imperatives

BIPSS Research Assistant Jannatul Toba observed that Bangladesh’s security sector stands at a critical crossroads as the country undergoes political transition and public demand for accountability reaches unprecedented levels. While recent initiatives signal progress, she noted that deep-rooted gaps including politicization, colonial-era legal frameworks, weak oversight, and persistent impunity continue to undermine meaningful reform.

She emphasized that rebuilding a democratic, rights-based security sector requires bold structural changes: a modern Police Act, empowered civilian oversight bodies, independent investigations into past abuses, and sustained professionalization across all agencies. The success of SSR, she concluded, will depend on the political leadership’s resolve to institutionalize transparency, uphold human rights, and ensure that security institutions serve citizens rather than power.