United Nations calls for safe, inclusive and meaningful participation of women in elections

As Bangladesh prepares for the 13th National Parliamentary Election on 12 February 2026, the United Nations underscores that safe, inclusive and meaningful participation in public life is a fundamental right. This includes the rights of all women and girls, including women with disabilities, women from minority communities, gender diverse people, and others who may face heightened barriers, discrimination or gender-based violence. 

Ahead of the election, the United Nations notes concerns raised by women’s groups and civil society organizations on violence and harassment of women candidates and voters, including digital violence. Women in public life, including political leaders, activists, journalists, and human rights defenders, are reporting increased incidents of cyberbullying, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and image-based abuse, including AI-altered and sexualized content. 

The United Nations has consistently advocated for women’s meaningful representation and leadership with all stakeholders and is supporting the Bangladesh Election Commission to boost women’s electoral participation and representation. It is essential that all voters, including women, can participate as candidates and voters without intimidation, discrimination, online abuse or fear of reprisals.  

The United Nations calls on all stakeholders, including political leaders and their parties and supporters, to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to intimidation, harassment, and any other form of violence against women throughout the electoral process. This applies equally to women candidates and voters, whose participation and safety are essential to inclusive democratic processes. We are confident that authorities will continue to take steps to uphold security and the rule of law, and to ensure the safety and rights of every individual. The United Nations remains committed to supporting the authorities to ensure the safety and rights of every individual.