The InternationalCovenant on Civil and Political Rights: A Study on Bangladesh Compliance
closely monitored under this law. This legislation was
enacted with the aim of bringing forward qualitative changes
in politics, and thereby, create a culture of tolerance and a
space for diversity – essential requisites for democracy in any
society.
Freedom of Assembly and Association:
In conformity with the international standard, the
Constitution also guarantees freedom of movement,
freedom of assembly, and freedom of association. According
to Article 36, every citizen shall have the right to move freely
throughout the country, to reside and settle in any place
therein and to leave and re-enter Bangladesh, subject to any
reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the public interest.
Subject to similar restrictions, every citizen is guaranteed the
right to assemble and to participate in public meetings and
processions peacefully.42 Similarly, citizens also have the right
to form associations or unions, subject to certain reasonable
restrictions imposed by law.43 These rights are crucial for
maintaining a democratic political environment in any
society. The Bangladesh Labour Act (BLA), 2006 consolidated
laws from 25 separate acts into one comprehensive law.
Under this law, the Director of Labour is responsible for the
registration and dissolution of unions, while the Registrar of
Trade Unions may deregister unions with the approval of the
Labour Court. The law, however, affords unions the right of
42
43
Article 37 of the Constitution.
Article 38 of the Constitution.
41