This month, we meet Farjana Najneen Tultul, from the National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh.

Name and position:

Farjana Najneen Tultul, Deputy Director (Complaint and Inquiry), National Human Rights Commission, Bangladesh

Could you tell us a bit about your role?

I have been working with the Complaint and Inquiry department of the NHRC since 2015. My core responsibilities include screening complaints, writing short reports, briefing to the concerned Bench of NHRC, developing and reviewing the work plan of the thematic committee on person with disabilities.

My responsibility also includes listening to the complainants and counselling them as well. I also assist the mediation bench as a Bench officer.

"I truly love working for the promotion and protection of human rights of the people of my country, especially for the persons with disabilities, as I am a person with visual impairment."

What’s the most challenging aspect of your role?

People share their plight; I give patience hearing to them. But due to the legal mandate of the NHRC, sometimes I can’t manage to help them out, although it makes me feel empathy for them.

Sometimes, my personal challenge due to visual impairment hinders my role, but having cooperation from the Commission and my colleagues helps to overcome the obstacles.

Why did you decide to work in human rights?

Being a graduate of social work and a person with disability, I wanted to take the opportunity to serve humanity, especially for persons with disabilities.

What is your proudest achievement?

I was part of drafting the National Action Plan for persons with disabilities and the recommendation made by NHRC was duly accepted by the government.

Also, my advocacy on digital accessibility for persons with disability has been considered and being practiced by different service providers.

What is your favorite book?

'The Unfinished Memoirs' of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, founding father of Bangladesh.

Date: 31 May 2022