441-01588 (Foreign affairs)

Canada attaches great importance to protecting and promoting human rights and democracy, including respect for diversity, inclusive and accountable governance, and the rule of law. Canada recognizes the critical need to continue to strengthen human rights and democratic norms around the world, which is reflected in Canadian engagement with all international partners. As these values remain a priority for Canada’s engagement at home and abroad, they will also continue to be a core component of Canada’s engagement with the Government of Bangladesh.

Canada was among the first countries to recognize Bangladesh’s independence and has continued to work in partnership with the Government of Bangladesh since then. In that period, Bangladesh has made remarkable strides in economic and social development. Additionally, during this period, Bangladeshis have demonstrated that they share many of the same values that are important to Canadians, including human rights, democracy and good governance.

The Government of Canada, as part of the United Nations Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review in 2018, recommended that the Government of Bangladesh ensure freedom of assembly and expression for all people, media, civil society and political parties. For the upcoming Universal Periodic Review process for Bangladesh in 2023, Canada will again take the opportunity to advocate for core human rights.

As it was with its economic and social development, Bangladeshis should be and will continue to be the most important actors in determining the progress of democracy, and human rights within Bangladesh. As with other bilateral partners, the Government of Canada will continue to engage the Government of Bangladesh on shared interests and issues in-line with these democratic principles in bilateral and multilateral fora.