ON AUGUST 5, the world witnessed a significant political upheaval in Bangladesh, as the long-standing autocratic prime minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to flee the country amid an uprising led by students and citizens. Her 15-year rule had deeply corrupted and politicised various government institutions, including the police force, which had become a tool of oppression and brutality. The police, heavily influenced by the Awami League and its student wing, the Chhatra League, were implicated in extrajudicial killings, kidnappings and other atrocities, particularly during the July uprising.
With the fall of the Hasina regime, the new government faces the daunting task of overhauling and reforming the police force. Drawing lessons from the police systems of developed countries can offer valuable insights into creating a more just, accountable and effective law enforcement body in Bangladesh. This article outlines key strategies for police reform, taking into account the current context in Bangladesh.
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Transparent oversight mechanism
The Bangladesh police force鈥檚 reputation has been severely tarnished due to its involvement in numerous human rights violations. Rebuilding trust with the public requires a robust oversight mechanism.
Lessons from developed countries
United States: Many US cities have civilian review boards that provide oversight and investigate complaints against the police. These boards are composed of community members and experts who review cases of alleged police misconduct.
United Kingdom: The Independent Office for Police Conduct investigates complaints and allegations of misconduct against the police. It operates independently of the police and ensures transparency.听
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Create an independent oversight body: Establish an independent commission with broad powers to investigate police misconduct and corruption. This body should be composed of legal experts, human rights activists and community representatives.
Ensure transparency: Regularly publish reports on investigations and disciplinary actions taken against police officers to maintain public trust.
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Training and professional development
THE politicisation of the police force has led to a lack of professionalism and accountability among officers. Comprehensive training and development are crucial for reform.
Lessons from developed countries
Germany: German police officers receive extensive training in human rights, conflict resolution and ethical conduct. Continuous professional development is emphasised throughout their careers.
Canada: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police focuses on community-oriented policing, emphasising de-escalation techniques and building positive relationships with the community.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Develop a modern training curriculum: Introduce training programmes that focus on human rights, ethical policing, community engagement and de-escalation techniques.
Invest in ongoing professional development: Implement mandatory periodic training and professional development programs to keep officers updated on best practices and legal standards.
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Recruitment and selection processes
THE recruitment process under the Hasina regime was tainted by political favouritism, leading to a police force lacking in merit and integrity.听
Lessons from developed countries
Netherlands: The Dutch police recruit based on rigorous selection criteria, including psychological assessments, background checks and comprehensive interviews.
Australia: The Australian Federal Police employs a transparent recruitment process, focusing on merit and competence rather than political connections.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Adopt a merit-based recruitment system: Revise the recruitment process to ensure it is based on merit and professional qualifications rather than political affiliations.
Conduct thorough background checks: Implement rigorous background checks and psychological evaluations to ensure that new recruits are suitable for the role and free from corruption.
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Community policing and trust
THE police force鈥檚 brutality and corruption have eroded public trust. Community policing can help rebuild relationships between the police and the community.
Lessons from developed countries
Sweden: Swedish police engage in community policing, focusing on building partnerships with local communities and addressing their concerns collaboratively.
New Zealand: New Zealand鈥檚 police emphasise community engagement and problem-solving approaches, working closely with local organisations and residents.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Implement community policing programmes: Develop community policing initiatives that involve officers working closely with local residents to address their concerns and build trust.
Encourage community involvement: Foster partnerships with local organisations, advocacy groups, and community leaders to improve police-community relations.
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Accountability and transparency
THE lack of accountability has been a major issue in the Bangladesh police force, leading to widespread abuses of power.
Lessons from developed countries
France: French police operations are subject to strict oversight, with clear procedures for accountability and transparency.
Japan: The Japanese police maintain high standards of accountability through internal controls and regular audits.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Implement accountability measures: Establish clear procedures for holding officers accountable for misconduct, including disciplinary actions and legal consequences.
Adopt transparent operational practices: Ensure that police operations, including the use of force and arrest procedures, are conducted transparently and in accordance with established protocols.
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Conclusion
THE reform of the Bangladesh police force is a critical step towards restoring justice and rebuilding public trust. By drawing on lessons from developed countries and implementing comprehensive reforms, including establishing independent oversight, improving training, enhancing recruitment processes, promoting community policing and ensuring accountability, Bangladesh can work towards creating a police force that serves and protects its citizens with integrity and respect. The successful implementation of these reforms will be essential in healing the wounds of the past and building a safer and more equitable future for all Bangladeshis.
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HRM Rokan Uddin, a retired Brigadier General, is a writer, military thinker and ex-military diplomat.