Law and legal framework Archives | Reform Tracker Bangladesh

Enact a life-cycle-based, universal social security law for all citizens, ensuring protection—especially for women, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and the elderly. The law should establish a gender-responsive social security system, including maternity benefits, child support, and services for elderly people.

Amending the ‘Bangladesh Sports Educational Institutions Act 2020’ by making special provisions for girls from hill areas and other marginal (geographically remote and naturally risky) areas to provide them training.

Amend the ‘National Sports Council Act 2018’ to ensure equal opportunities for men and women in all levels of sports activities and structures.

To be registered, boards of private businesses, government agencies and semi-autonomous organisations must include at least 40 percent women, selected on the basis of their own merit.

The traditional local governance system of the indigenous peoples of the hills and plains should remain in force, and the headmen or traders should be included in the local government system. At least one-third of women’s representation in these institutions should be ensured.

Amendment of the Pornography Control Act, 2012: The proposed Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025 amends the Pornography Control Act, 2012 to include digital child sexual abuse material and digital non-consensual pornography as offences. To ensure appropriate redress for online harm, the definition of pornography should include digital pornography, digital child sexual abuse material and digital non-consensual pornography.

Review the Bangladesh Civil Service Act 2018, along with the Government Servants Leave Rules and other relevant laws and regulations, and, in light of the 2009 High Court directives and international policies, approve and implement specific amendments or additions to provisions related to gender equality, elimination of discrimination, prevention of sexual harassment, and maternity and paternity leave.

Repeal the special clause of the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2017, allowing marriages below the age of 18.

Total Reforms Being Tracked

8

06

Reform Proposed

The reform idea or commitment is publicly articulated.

01

Reform Initiated

Preliminary steps are taken (e.g., circulars or notices by relevant...

01

Legal and Policy Framework

The reform is codified in policy, law, or regulation.

00

Operationalisation

Institutional or administrative mechanisms are established for the reform delivery.

00

Action Implementation

Tangible actions showing visible progress or outcomes are taken.