Rajshahi: Speakers at a citizens' dialogue here today unequivocally called for making political parties' election manifestos more inclusive for the protection of women and children's rights. The issue of women and children rights protection is a precondition to building a sustainable society. Therefore, political parties must include the issue in their election manifesto on a priority basis.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Coalition for Advancing Equality and Justice organized the divisional dialogue titled 'Women and Children-friendly Election Manifesto' at a city hotel. Influencing, Advocacy, and Communication Director of Plan International Bangladesh, Nishat Sultana, along with Rajshahi Divisional Coordinators of Jago Foundation Trust Sarforaj Jahan, Mijanur Rahman, and Asmaul Husna, addressed the dialogue as resource persons disseminating their expertise on the issue.
Five priority issues related to women and children's rights protection were discussed in the dialogue elaborately. These issues include access to education, standard improvement and ensuring completion of education life, ensuring healthcare and nutrition, and providing a safe life with adequate water and sanitation.
The discussants expressed their expectations that political parties will strongly incorporate these issues in their forthcoming election manifestos.