The European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh have announced a new partnership to accelerate the digitisation of legal aid services, aiming to improve access to justice for the most vulnerable communities in the country.

Michael Miller, EU Ambassador to Bangladesh, and Stefan Liller, UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative, signed an agreement at a ceremony held at the EU Delegation office in Dhaka on May 15, according to a joint statement.

The collaboration will introduce an integrated legal aid system that incorporates mobile-based applications, online case tracking, and virtual mediation.

The aim is to enable citizens—particularly those in remote and marginalised areas—to access legal support without the need to visit a court in person.

‘This initiative marks a significant step forward in making justice more accessible for all,’ said Stefan Liller.

‘Aligned closely with the ongoing justice sector reforms supported by the UNDP and the EU, it builds upon our long-standing partnership in strengthening village courts, which already play a crucial role in resolving local disputes and serving rural communities,’ he added.

The project will initially be piloted in eight districts, reaching over 680,000 disadvantaged individuals.

In addition to being available online, the services will be designed to be inclusive, gender-responsive, and accessible to users with limited digital literacy.

Ambassador Miller highlighted the strength of the ongoing partnership between the Bangladesh, the EU, and UNDP.

‘Whether through village courts or new digital innovations, our joint efforts are helping to build a justice system that is more efficient, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the people, especially the most marginalized,’ he said.

The initiative will be implemented by the National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO), under the Government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with UNDP and the EU.

The project supports the country’s 8th Five-Year Plan and contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions.

According to the statement, the introduction of a unified digital platform—accessible via phone, SMS, and online portals—was also expected to reduce the burden on courts, enhance transparency, and foster greater public trust in the justice system.