Summary Brief: Barriers to Women’s Political Participation, Representation, and Leadership in Bangladesh

Women constitute 51% of Bangladesh’s population, yet structural, institutional, and sociocultural barriers continue to impede their political participation, representation, and leadership (WPPRL). This study examines those barriers and opportunities, including violence against women in politics (VAWP), with a focus on moving beyond numerical inclusion toward influence and authority. Drawing on a review of literature and policy, 43 in-depth interviews, eight key informant interviews, selected election campaign observations, and eight regional consultations, the study engaged women in public office, candidates, aspiring politicians, and women from marginalized communities, including ethnic minority, religious minority, Dalit, and Hijra groups. Its analytical framework rests on three dimensions — access, presence, and influence — and distinguishes among descriptive, substantive, and symbolic representation. 

Findings show that women’s entry into politics is relational, negotiated, and conditional, shaped by institutional obstacles such as opaque membership processes and financial constraints, alongside normative barriers rooted in the belief that politics is a male domain. At the electoral level, financing remains a major obstacle, with women receiving fewer resources because they are perceived as less viable candidates, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. In leadership positions, women face formal inclusion without authority, informal gatekeeping, and a pattern of “responsibility without power.” VAWP is widespread, multidimensional, and underrecognized, functioning as a political control mechanism across electoral, party, institutional, and digital spaces. 

The study recommends reforming nomination processes, establishing financial support mechanisms, institutionalizing transparent selection processes, and strengthening legal and institutional frameworks to address VAWP. This brief was produced with support from the UN Electoral Assistance Programme (DRIP/BALLOT) and technical support from UN Women.