A Portrayal of Achievements and Government on pressing human rights issues to bring conformity with Challenges Kazi Reazul Hoque Full Time Member (FTM) National Human Rights (JAMAKON) Bangladesh Commission It is now evident that the National Human Rights Commission (JAMAKON) of Bangladesh, in the last five years of its journey, has been able to transform itself into an effective human rights institution. It may be recalled that the Baseline Survey conducted in 2010 had revealed that of all the respondents, only 50 per cent had heard about the term ‘human rights’ and 32 per cent the term ‘the National Human Rights Commission’. By comparison, the Follow–Up Survey conducted in 2014 revealed that 68 per cent respondents had heard about the term ‘human rights’ and 45 per cent the term ‘the National Human Rights Commission’. This reflects JAMAKON’s utmost sincerity in promotion and protection of human rights in the last five years. Capacity Enhancement of JAMAKON: A Capacity Assessment Survey was undertaken by Asia Pacific Forum (APF) in December 2013 in order to determine JAMAKON’s overall capacity to carry out its functions. The Survey enabled JAMAKON to identify areas where further capacity building is required. Accordingly some recommendations were adopted. Despite some visible progress made in 2014 still a number of recommendations underway to be implemented. Policy and Legal Issues: In 2014, JAMAKON provided a number of policy recommendations to the international human rights laws. JAMAKON reviewed a number of national legislations and submitted its recommendations to the Government. Review of the Act of 2009: JAMAKON reviewed its founding law, the National Human Rights Commission Act, 2009 with a view to bringing in certain amendments that would bring it closer to complying with the Paris Principles. The reform proposals include: (1) making transparent the selection process of the Commissioners; (2) immediately fillingup senior level positions (Secretary and Directors) through direct appointment by JAMAKON; (3) ensuring the financial and administrative independence of JAMAKON; and (4) empowering JAMAKON to investigate violations of human rights by law enforcement agencies. Reform in Legislation Relating to Child Marriage: In 2014, JAMAKON organized several stakeholders’ meetings on combating child marriage, human trafficking and eradication of child labour, in particular child domestic work. JAMAKON also recommended the adoption of a Child Ombudsman Act and establishment of the office of Child Ombudsman. JAMAKON submitted specific recommendations to the Government on the proposed amendment in the Child Marriage Restraint Act and Child Labour Elimination Policy - recomendation which are under active consideration by the government. JAMAKON also played an important role in persuading the government to raise the minimum age of Criminal responsibilities from 9 to 12 years.