Denmark has announced a new partnership aimed at strengthening human rights, trauma-informed mental health, and media freedom in Bangladesh.

The Danish government has pledged DKK 25 million in support of a consortium of Danish organisations, including DIGNITY, International Media Support (IMS), and the Danish Institute for Human Rights, the Denmark Embassy in Dhaka said on November 10.

Over the next three years, the consortium will collaborate with Bangladeshi organisations to enhance human rights, improve access to rehabilitation for survivors of torture and violence, and promote independent media.

The initiative follows a call by the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, urging civil society and state institutions to bolster the country’s human rights capacity and help build a more inclusive future, the statement added.

‘Right now, there is a unique opportunity to strengthen civil society in Bangladesh and address important challenges of human rights violations and impunity,’ said Christian Brix Møller, Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh.

He expressed hope that the upcoming programme would contribute to revitalising the pursuit of justice and democratic reform, noting that the consortium partners have the relevant expertise to support civil society in promoting human rights and democracy.

Each of the three organisations has extensive experience working in countries affected by both repressive regimes and democratic transitions, where civil society support is crucial, the statement said.

‘A strong civil society is crucial in advancing human rights and securing accountability and rehabilitation for survivors of torture and violence,’ said Rasmus Grue Christensen, CEO of DIGNITY.

He added that the organisation was committed to supporting local partners through capacity building, survivor-centred approaches, and strengthened referral systems.

Jesper Højberg, Executive Director at IMS, emphasised the importance of collaboration.

‘Meaningful change is only possible through genuine partnership. By working closely with local organisations, civil society, and government, we aim to strengthen the foundations of Bangladesh’s media sector,’ he said.

The Danish Institute for Human Rights will focus particularly on supporting reform of Bangladesh’s National Human Rights Commission.

Mette Thygesen, International Director at the Danish Institute for Human Rights, said that they saw a unique opportunity to support both institutional reform and civic engagement in Bangladesh.

She said that reforming the National Human Rights Commission was key and that, to be effective, their engagement would also build bridges with civil society and youth to articulate human rights demands and shape the country’s future.

She emphasised that their role was to help connect these actors and support a coherent, inclusive transition.