Hanoi:The government is planning to broaden its range of services for women and children, focusing on protection and economic independence. This includes initiatives such as forensic DNA testing, emergency responses to violence, and livelihood training.
According to United News of Bangladesh, The government's FY2026-27 budget outlines a combination of social protection, justice access, skills development, and rehabilitation for vulnerable children. Currently, the government continues to provide a food assistance program for 1.04 million vulnerable women and operates rehabilitation facilities for children facing various vulnerabilities.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly in preventing gender-based violence and ensuring justice and economic participation for women. A significant concern is that 76% of women have experienced intimate partner violence, with 49% facing such violence in the past year, according to a survey by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics with the UNFPA.
To improve response to violence against women, the government has established forensic DNA laboratories and a Quick Response Team for immediate action in violent cases. Economic opportunities for women are also a focus, with a database being compiled to connect women entrepreneurs to resources and training.
The government is expanding daycare facilities to support working mothers, with 20 centers planned initially and 60 more in the next phase. These facilities aim to help women balance employment and childcare responsibilities.
For children, the government is implementing programs to enhance early childhood development and rehabilitation for those living on the streets. Child Development Centres and Integrated Child Rehabilitation Centres are part of these efforts, providing support for girls in conflict with the law and children with disabilities.
The overall success of these initiatives depends on effective delivery and coordination to ensure they reach those in need.