Dhaka: Violence against women is a serious human rights violation, emphasized Sharmeen S Murshid, Adviser to the Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Ministries. She highlighted the need to suppress misogynistic propaganda to curb the rising abuse rates.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharmeen S Murshid made these remarks at a national dialogue organized by the Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) in Gulshan as part of a global 16-day campaign against gender-based violence. Despite advancements in women's education, economic participation, and leadership, she pointed out that incidents of violence are increasing due to entrenched authoritarian attitudes.
The adviser announced the formation of a quick-response team by the ministry to reach victims within 24 hours and stressed the importance of stronger coordination with grassroots NGOs. She also underscored the growing threats of cyber violence and called for a new social narrative rooted in awareness, equality, and respect.
Sharmeen urged political parties to take accountability for their stance on women's rights ahead of the forthcoming elections. Renowned economist and distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Debapriya Bhattacharya, noted that women in Bangladesh feel unsafe across social, financial, and political spheres, emphasizing the need for social movements.
Representatives from Switzerland, UN Women, Canada, and Sweden echoed the call for collective action, partnerships, preventive measures, and combating technology-based violence, describing it as rapidly increasing. Speakers reaffirmed that gender-based violence is unacceptable in any form and called for year-round commitment beyond the 16-day international campaign recognized by the UN.