CHT - Stärkt demokratisk samhällsstyrning & MR

As a result of national policy/advocacy to support the Government of Bangladesh to implement the CHT Peace Accord, Bangladesh Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (BIPRA) has been tabled to the National Parliament. This is the first legalinstrument in Bangladesh designed to protect and promote rights of the indigenous/tribal groups. Public awareness was raised and CHT issues such as lives of CHT peoples, environment, nature and problems, and promoting mountainfarming practices in Bangladesh have been highlighted, and voice was raised to have an integrated sustainable environment policy for CHT to help ensure that future activities in the region are sustainable. The cultural diversity hasfurther been promoted and the government policymakers have been brought closer to the culture and tradition of the CHT peoples. The project has also been successful in negotiation with the Government in increasing budget allocationfor CHT to BDT 100 crore for the fiscal year 2016-2017. Results were also achieved with regard to improving capacities of CHT institutions (including traditional ones) to local confidence building and strengthening social cohesion in CHT. The roadmap (2016–2020) for harmonization of laws and acts in CHT was finalized and submitted to MoCHTA for Government approval and mobilizing resources for implementation. This roadmap will internalize CHT governance and legislation as envisaged in the CHT accord within the national governance framework, and also will guide efforts of all stakeholders through articulation of their roles in identifying milestones, interventions and proper implementation. A model for early warning and response system (EWRS) in CHT was also developed, which was shared with a wide range of stakeholders for test starting in the field. For developing improved mechanism to support the victims of communal violence and strengthen human security, the project has developed capacity of police along with making efforts for social cohesion. Efforts were also made to make formal and informal justice systems accessible for CHT peoples through enhancing capacity to deliver legal aid and justice in CHT, and improving access to justice for all especially, women. Livelihood supports including financial assistance and skill building training have been extended to 20 victims in three hill districts. Victims have also been linked with the legal aid providers along with necessary safe shelter and psychosocial counseling support to around 20 VAW victims.

Government institutions at the national and subnational levels are able to more effectively carry out their mandates, including devlivery of public services, in a more accountable, transparent and inclusive manner.