Empowering National Human Rights Institutions to Advance Rights-Based Climate Action 21 In the area of climate change and human rights initiatives, NHRC Bangladesh has established a Committee on Climate Change Environment and Disaster Management. They monitor various climate-related displacement and relocation issues, including in the context of flooding, deforestation, and air pollution. The Commission visits affected areas, gathers information, and reports to the government about challenges faced by local communities. They publish findings in their annual report and send letters to government advisors on specific issues like river protection and affected communities. The NHRC advocates for environmental protection and human rights in climate change contexts. They engage with local administrations and inform the central government about challenges faced by communities affected by severe weather conditions and other climate-related impacts. The Commission also addresses issues like illegal deforestation and the expansion of industries into indigenous lands. They push for the enforcement of environmental regulations and advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations affected by climate change. The Commission faces challenges due to limited political will on climate change issues. Some politicians oppose environmental protection measures for economic reasons. However, there are also supportive political leaders. The NHRC engages with relevant local stakeholders and tries to motivate leaders through seminars and workshops to understand the importance of these issues. While NHRC staff have not faced direct security threats, human rights defenders (HRDs) and journalists reporting on environmental issues have encountered difficulties and attacks. The Commission takes these reports seriously, investigating cases and directing law enforcement agencies to take action against perpetrators. The NHRC recognises that women, children, and elderly individuals are often most affected by climate change and disasters. They address gender-based violence that often escalates during disasters and work against issues like child marriage, that arise from climate-related poverty. In particular, displaced communities are often at risk of being exploited by human traffickers. NHRC indicated that they put a special emphasis in their work to address such risks faced by displaced communities. The Commission ensures that gender needs are considered in their complaint mechanisms and advocacy efforts. The NHRC collaborates with international organisations like World Vision and Article 19. They participate in global forums such as GANHRI and APF meetings, raising issues related to climate change and human rights. The Commission is also a member of the GANHRI Climate Caucus and the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (CFNHRI)’s environmental rights steering committee. The NHRC acknowledges limitations in their capacity to fully engage in climate change issues. They have about five capable individuals focused on this area but need more support to develop their team’s skills. The Commission expresses a need for more highly educated staff and training to improve their ability to organise seminars, workshops, and write effectively. They also highlight the importance of participating in international forums like COP to enhance their understanding and capacity and to be up to date in this critical field.