Women still underrepresented in politics despite 33pc target: Study

Despite a legal requirement for political parties to ensure 33 per cent representation of women at all levels of party committees by 2030, progress remains largely confined to policy commitments, with women continuing to have limited influence in political decision-making processes, according to a new study, reports UNB.
The findings were unveiled at a divisional dialogue in a city hotel on Monday, where the results of a study titled "Political Parties' Position on the Representation of the People Order (RPO)" were presented.
The dialogue was jointly organised by Wave Foundation and ActionAid Bangladesh.
The study found that while awareness of the provision is high, implementation remains weak. Around 87.3 per cent of respondents said they were aware of the requirement for 33 per cent women's representation in political parties, but 72 per cent believed the provision is not being effectively implemented.
Researchers also highlighted concerns over the capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission to monitor compliance. Only 1.4 per cent of respondents considered the Election Commission fully capable of ensuring implementation of the provision, while 9.9 percent viewed its capacity as partially sufficient.
The research, conducted by Sanaia Fahim Ansari and presented by consultant Mansura Akhtar, drew on the opinions of 191 stakeholders from 11 districts.