Speakers at a discussion on Monday voiced concern over the domestic violence and sexual harassment against women and children in the country, reports UNB.
Referring to recent cases of rape and attempted murder, they emphasised the urgent need for authorities to take immediate action to ensure justice for victims. Without such measures, perpetrators will continue to escape accountability, further encouraging others to commit similar crimes.
In addition to ensuring women's empowerment can significantly reduce crimes against them, the speakers observed.
The discussion, titled "Reflection on Reality: Women's Journey Towards Leadership and Empowerment," was organised on Monday by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) at the ALOK Training Centre, MJF Tower in the city to mark the International Women's Day 2025 under the theme "For ALL women and girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment."
In the welcome address, Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), said, "Many have wished me 'Happy Women's Day.' Today, I am not actually happy."
Referring to the recent sexual violence against women and children, she said that she sees no reason to be joyful.
The Law Adviser has directed that investigations must be completed within 15 days, and trials within 90 days on recent rape incident, they will observe how effectively this is implemented, she added.
In her keynote presentation, Banasree Mitra Neogi, director of Rights and Governance Programmes at MJF, said, "If someone asks me if I have been subjected to violence, I say no. But I always live in fear, afraid that someone might throw acid, pull my clothes, or say something obscene."
"Women must break free from the deeply rooted patriarchal norms of our society. Instead of being silenced by shame or fear, we must raise our voices," she added.
Banasree also said, "Garment workers are employed in leadership roles as low-wage, low-skilled laborers. There is an opportunity here to develop women's skills. Additionally, we must ensure women's participation in science-based education."
Nishath Sultana, director of Influencing, Campaign and Communications, Plan International Bangladesh, said, "Recent events have left me speechless, but we must gather our strength and move forward." Sharing her own life story, she spoke about overcoming numerous obstacles.
Addressing as special guest, Maria Stridman, Head of Development Cooperation at the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka, said, "Despite progress for women in Bangladesh, several challenges remain. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2024, Bangladesh ranks 99th out of 146 countries, leading in South Asia but still facing critical gaps in economic participation, wage equality, and leadership opportunities."
"We must work towards ensuring a gender equal society, in which women, girls, men and boys are equally valued and have equal rights," she added.
Stéphanie St-Laurent Brassard, second Secretary (Development-Gender Equality) at the High Commission of Canada in Bangladesh, said, "We truly believe in an equal society. We will definitely renew the efforts on women empowerment."
While addressing as the chief guest, Keya Khan, Director General, Department of Women Affairs, government of Bangladesh, said, "We are always working on awareness programmes for women. There are adolescent clubs in 4553 unions and 330 municipalities. We hold weekly discussions with them and listen to their voices."
The event, organised marking International Women's Day, was attended by media personnel, civil society representatives, representatives of marginalised communities, youth, and various other groups and communities.
