Barishal:Speakers at a colloquium in Barishal on Thursday emphasized the need for greater participation of women in politics and stressed the importance of ensuring education and employment for young people to foster an inclusive and democratic Bangladesh.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) organized the event titled 'Breaking Barriers Women and Youth in Leadership' at Barishal Club. The gathering brought together representatives from various political parties, young politicians, women leaders, and civil society members to discuss the obstacles and opportunities for women in politics and to encourage young activists to critically examine gender norms in political leadership.
CGS president Zillur Rahman highlighted the active role women played during the 2024 mass uprising, yet noted their continued lack of visibility in elections and politics. He urged politicians to encourage more women to join the political arena.
Barishal City Corporation administrator Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin pointed out that the primary obstacle to women's leadership is societal mindset. She called for collaborative efforts between men and women to build a better Bangladesh and shared her initiatives to make Barishal a woman-friendly city.
BaSad coordinator Dr. Manisha Chakraborty noted that women were the largest presence at the Nathullabad protests during the August movement in Barishal but received less than 5 percent of nominations in the last election. She stressed the importance of equal rights in family and property laws, equal pay, and the need to balance household responsibilities to enable women's political participation. Dr. Chakraborty also emphasized the empowerment of youth through education and employment to prevent depoliticization.
NCP coordinator of Barishal unit Abu Sayeed Musa highlighted the challenges women face in politics, including social media trolling, lack of security, and personal attacks. He advocated for a collective political effort to overcome these barriers.