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EVERY year, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, a day dedicated to honouring the achievements of women, raising awareness about gender inequality, and advocating for women’s rights. This year’s theme,Ìý’For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,’Ìýunderscores the importance of empowering women economically, socially, and politically to drive sustainable development. In Bangladesh, the observance of International Women’s Day holds special significance, as the country, despite remarkable progress in advancing gender equality, continues to grapple with deep-rooted challenges. Aligning with this year’s theme, it is crucial to explore the progress Bangladesh has made in empowering women, the persistent barriers that hinder gender equality, and the steps needed to create a more inclusive and equitable society. By investing in women’s education, health, and economic opportunities, Bangladesh can accelerate progress toward a future where every woman and girl can thrive.

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The significance of the day

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is more than just a symbolic observance in Bangladesh; it is a call to action. The day serves as a reminder of the struggles women have endured and the progress that has been achieved, while also highlighting the work that remains to be done. For a country like Bangladesh, where women have played a pivotal role in shaping its history and development, the day is an opportunity to reflect on the journey toward gender equality and recommit to the cause.

International Women’s Day is a time to critically examine the state of women’s rights in Bangladesh and take concrete steps toward addressing the barriers that persist.

The day also serves as a platform to honour the contributions of Bangladeshi women who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. From the bravery of women during the liberation war to the leadership of women in politics, business, and civil society, Bangladeshi women have demonstrated resilience and determination in the face of adversity. International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate these achievements and draw inspiration from them to drive further progress.

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Progress in women’s empowerment

OVER the past few decades, Bangladesh has made significant progress in advancing women’s rights and empowerment. These achievements are a testament to the resilience and determination of Bangladeshi women, as well as the efforts of policymakers, activists, and development organisations.

Bangladesh has been a global leader in promoting women’s political participation. The country has had a female head of government for nearly three and half decades. Additionally, reserved seats for women in the national parliament and local government bodies have provided opportunities for women to participate in decision-making processes. While challenges remain in ensuring meaningful representation, these measures have helped amplify women’s voices in politics. Women leaders at the local level, such as union parishad members, have played a crucial role in addressing community issues and advocating for women’s rights.

Women’s participation in the labour force has increased significantly, particularly in the ready-made garment sector, which employs millions of women. The RMG industry has been a game-changer for women’s economic empowerment, providing them with opportunities for financial independence and social mobility. Women who were once confined to their homes are now contributing to their families’ incomes and challenging traditional gender roles.

Microfinance initiatives have also empowered women to start their own businesses and achieve financial independence. These efforts have not only improved the economic status of women but also challenged societal norms that previously limited their roles to domestic spheres.

Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in improving access to education and healthcare for women and girls. Gender parity in primary and secondary education has been achieved, and the enrolment of girls in schools has increased significantly. Programs such as stipends for female students and community-based education initiatives have played a crucial role in encouraging families to send their daughters to school.

Maternal and child health programs have reduced maternal mortality rates and improved access to reproductive healthcare. Initiatives like the establishment of community clinics and the training of midwives have brought healthcare services closer to women in rural areas. These advancements have laid the foundation for a more equitable society and improved the overall well-being of women and girls.

The government has enacted several laws to protect women’s rights, including the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, the Dowry Prohibition Act, and the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act. These legal frameworks provide a basis for addressing gender-based violence and discrimination. For example, the Domestic Violence Act recognizes various forms of abuse and provides legal remedies for survivors, while the Dowry Prohibition Act aims to curb the harmful practice of dowry, which often leads to violence against women.

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Persistent challenges to gender equality

DESPITE these achievements, significant challenges remain in the fight for gender equality in Bangladesh. These challenges are deeply rooted in cultural, social, and economic structures and require sustained efforts to overcome.

Gender-based violence remains one of the most pressing issues facing women in Bangladesh. Domestic violence, sexual harassment, and dowry-related violence are widespread, with many cases going unreported due to fear of stigma or retaliation. The lack of effective enforcement of laws and limited access to support services further exacerbate the problem. For example, survivors of domestic violence often face barriers in accessing legal aid, shelter, and counselling services, leaving them vulnerable to further abuse.

Bangladesh has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, despite legal reforms aimed at curbing the practice. Poverty, cultural norms, and lack of awareness continue to drive child marriage, depriving girls of their right to education and exposing them to health risks and exploitation. Early marriage often leads to early pregnancies, which pose significant risks to the health of young mothers and their babies.

While women’s participation in the labour force has increased, they often face discrimination and exploitation in the workplace. Women are disproportionately represented in low-paying, informal jobs and are often denied equal pay and opportunities for advancement. Additionally, unpaid care work, which is primarily performed by women, remains undervalued and unrecognised. This limits women’s ability to participate fully in the economy and achieve financial independence.

Despite progress, many women and girls in rural and marginalised communities still lack access to quality education and healthcare. Early marriage, poverty, and cultural barriers often prevent girls from completing their education, while inadequate healthcare infrastructure limits access to essential services. For example, women in remote areas often face challenges in accessing maternal healthcare, leading to preventable complications during childbirth.

Deep-rooted patriarchal norms and cultural practices continue to limit women’s autonomy and opportunities. Women are often expected to prioritise their roles as wives and mothers over their personal and professional aspirations, while societal attitudes toward gender roles perpetuate inequality. These norms are reinforced through media, religious institutions, and community practices, making it difficult for women to challenge them.

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The path forward

ADDRESSING these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government, civil society, the private sector, and individuals. It is essential to reflect on the steps needed to create a more inclusive and equitable society for women in Bangladesh.

While Bangladesh has made progress in enacting laws to protect women’s rights, enforcement remains weak. The government must prioritise the implementation of existing laws and ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence are held accountable. Additionally, legal reforms should address emerging issues, such as online harassment and workplace discrimination.

Efforts to promote women’s economic empowerment must go beyond access to employment and include measures to ensure equal pay, safe working conditions, and opportunities for advancement. Supporting women entrepreneurs through access to finance, training, and mentorship can also help bridge the gender gap in economic participation.

Expanding access to quality education and healthcare for women and girls is essential for achieving gender equality. This includes addressing barriers such as child marriage, poverty, and cultural norms, as well as investing in infrastructure and resources to improve service delivery.

Changing societal attitudes toward gender roles is critical for achieving lasting change. Public awareness campaigns, media initiatives, and community engagement can help challenge stereotypes and promote a more inclusive understanding of gender.

Technology can play a transformative role in advancing women’s rights and empowerment. Digital literacy programs, online platforms for education and entrepreneurship, and mobile health services can help bridge gaps in access and opportunity.

Achieving gender equality requires collaboration among government, civil society, the private sector, and international organisations. By working together, stakeholders can leverage their resources and expertise to drive meaningful change.

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Musharraf Tansen is a development analyst and former country representative of Malala Fund.