Dhaka: Emphasizing the need for a more integrated, inclusive, and sustainable social security network, Social Welfare Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid declared that social security is not merely a charitable act but a humanitarian commitment. "Its implementation requires a concerted effort by the government as well as the private sector, civil society, and international development partners," she asserted during the closing ceremony of the 'National Conference on Social Protection-2025' held at the Bangladesh China International Conference Center.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the conference was presided over by Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid. Other notable speakers included Cabinet Secretary (Coordination and Reforms) Zaheda Parveen, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Momtaz Ahmed, Member of the General Economics Division of the Bangladesh Planning Commission Dr. Manzur Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Head of Development and First Secretary of the Australian High Commission in Bangladesh Syed Haider, and Deputy Resident Representative of the UNDP Sonali Dayaratna.
Additional Secretary of the Coordination Branch of the Cabinet Division Khaled Hasan presented the main features of the conference and the conference declaration. Sharmin S. Murshid highlighted the importance of the values of independence in 1971 and the July Uprising, focusing on building a society grounded in equality and justice. She noted that the interim government is prioritizing social security programs to support marginalized groups.
Sharmin further stated that the primary duty of the state is to ensure the dignity, food, shelter, health, and education of every citizen. She emphasized the need for Bangladesh to develop as a nation born from the people's struggle, advocating for inclusivity, compassion, and comprehensive growth, which has remained unachieved over the past 50 years.
To achieve sustainable development of social protection programs, Sharmin called for more effective implementation of current initiatives and the introduction of new ones tailored to beneficiaries' needs. As Women and Children Affairs Adviser, she highlighted the necessity of information-based planning and good governance to enhance social protection for vulnerable groups such as women, children, the disabled, and the elderly. She also advocated for the use of digital platforms to ensure transparency and accountability in beneficiary selection, allocation, and monitoring.