DHAKA: In a recent public lecture, Professor Emeritus Naila Kabeer from the London School of Economics expressed optimism about the resilience and progress of Bangladeshi women despite the changing political landscape. She highlighted their continued efforts to expand their societal roles through economic contributions, marking significant strides in gender equality in recent decades.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Kabeer addressed the audience while discussing her latest book, "Renegotiating Patriarchy: Gender, Agency and the Bangladesh Paradox," at an event organized by the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS). She noted that Bangladesh's social progress has been both pro-poor and gender equitable, challenging Western perceptions of economic growth and modernization. This progress, she stated, began during a time of severe poverty, weak governance, and entrenched patriarchy, all while the country grappled with increasing Islamic orthodoxy.
During her lecture, Professor Kabeer outlined the shift in social norms that have facilitated educational and employment opportunities for women in Bangladesh. She explained how declining fertility rates and a diminishing preference for sons reflect a broader acceptance of daughters as equally capable of supporting their families. The book delves into the history and societal dynamics of the Bengal delta, examining the transformative policies and politics post-independence that contributed to the country's remarkable progress.
The event, chaired by BIDS Director General Binayak Sen, featured a discussion with notable figures including Shireen Parveen Huq, head of the Women's Affairs Reform Commission, and Khushi Kabir, coordinator of Nijera Kori. They emphasized the importance of democracy in ensuring continued progress and protecting women's rights in Bangladesh.
Professor Kabeer concluded by highlighting the ongoing change in gender relations within the country, driven by women challenging patriarchal norms and advocating for more democratic family and societal structures. Binayak Sen echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for the government to uphold democratic values to prevent any backsliding in women's rights and societal progress.