Dhaka:Misinterpretation of religion and patriarchal attitudes remain major challenges to gender equality and women's empowerment in Bangladesh, Prime Minister's Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapan stated on Thursday.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Swapan made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the 'IDG Carnival 2026', organized by Save the Children in Bangladesh at a hotel in the capital to mark the International Day of the Girl. He emphasized the necessity of addressing these challenges to build an equitable, inclusive, and developed Bangladesh. Ensuring equal opportunities for women in education, employment, leadership, and decision-making was highlighted as essential.
The event, themed "Rooted in Every Region, Advancing Every Adolescent Girl," gathered policymakers, development partners, youth representatives, and other stakeholders to promote the rights and meaningful participation of girls in society. Swapan noted the government's focus on gender equality and women's empowerment as part of its vision for the future of Bangladesh, stressing the need for effective collaboration with development partners.
Dr. Md. Saimum Parvez, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Environment, Forest and Climate Change, attended as the guest of honour. Members of Parliament Helen Zerin Khan, Mahmuda Habiba, and Mansura Akter participated as special guests, while Dr. Eliza Azei from UNFPA Bangladesh was also present. Discussions underscored the importance of eliminating barriers preventing girls from accessing education and leadership opportunities.
Speakers at the carnival called for coordinated efforts by families, communities, the government, and other institutions to create environments where the voices and needs of girls are recognized and valued. The initiative, part of Save the Children's SWOCCHAR project, aimed to strengthen efforts to empower girls and adolescent girls in Bangladesh. Participants stressed the significance of amplifying girls' voices and increasing their participation in decision-making processes to foster a more equitable society.