ECDO is an indigenous-led organization dedicated to advancing human rights for marginalized communities in the Sylhet region of Bangladesh. In collaboration with civil society actors, lawyers, academics, journalists, elected representatives, law enforcement authorities, and students, ECDO undertakes challenging, rights-based initiatives to promote justice and inclusion.

The organization focuses particularly on women’s and children’s rights, the Right to Information (RTI), and land rights. To support these priorities, ECDO conducts human rights trainings; produces information, education, and communication (IEC) materials such as posters, leaflets, and flyers; organizes field visits, press conferences, and human chains; provides legal aid; and prepares fact-finding reports to help ensure justice for victims.

In 2013, ECDO established a network of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) comprising individuals from diverse sectors—including lawyers, academics, journalists, social activists, and students. Since its formation, this network has actively addressed indigenous issues and worked to safeguard the rights of indigenous peoples in Sylhet District.

Overall, ECDO strives to promote good governance and social harmony. It also encourages journalists to report on human rights issues and raise public awareness of rights within national and international legal frameworks. Through these efforts, ECDO contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly ending poverty and hunger (Goals 1 and 2), advancing gender equality by protecting women’s and children’s rights (Goal 5), reducing inequalities (Goal 10), and fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies (Goal 16).