Armenia

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Speech

03 November 2024

"The efforts over the past 50 years have helped to build Bangladesh, to place it firmly on the multilateral stage, and to move ahead" - Ms. Gwyn Lewis

Thank you for joining us for the launch of the exhibition “A Promise for Future Generations: 50 years of Bangladesh in the United Nations”, held on the occasion of UN Day 2024. It is a great pleasure to welcome you all this evening to the new UN House, which will become Dhaka HQ for 12 UN entities starting this December. The images in this exhibition date back to the early 1970s when the UN first came to the assistance of refugees fleeing the former East Pakistan, all the way through to the momentous events of 2024. With photo contributions from the official UN archive, from UN entities working in Bangladesh, and from the image library of Drik Gallery, we have sought to tell two intertwined stories: the growth of Bangladesh as a UN member state across five decades; and the role that the UN has played to support the people of Bangladesh over the same period. The exhibition includes images of Bangladeshi peacekeepers deployed to UN missions overseas, and a series of moving photos depicting the generosity that Bangladesh has shown to the Rohingya people. You will note that the title of the exhibition is forward looking.More than anything, the partnership between the UN and Bangladesh is an investment for future generations. The official anniversary of Bangladesh joining the UN as a member state fell on 17 September this year, just a few days before the Summit of the Future took place in New York. The outcome documents of the Summit, including the Pact for the Future and the annex “Declaration for Future Generations”, chart a revived multilateral course. In looking towards our next decade of partnership, the UN and Bangladesh together have a duty to today’s young people and children to continue to work towards achieving the vision of the Summit. We just farewelled the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, who visited Bangladesh this week. In his remarks to students at Dhaka University on Tuesday, he said it is young people who have led the way to the “historic opportunity” that Bangladesh now has before it. The High Commissioner said that it is young people who give him hope for the future. In preparing these remarks tonight, I wanted to share some thoughts from the young UN staff in my own office. When asked to reflect on their experiences working for the UN in Bangladesh, they speak of pride in being part of an organization dedicated to the progress and empowerment of the Bangladeshi people, particularly women and children. They describe the UN-Bangladesh partnership as a source of hope and energy, driving progress towards a prosperous and equitable Bangladesh. They speak of the privilege of engaging deeply with this country's development coordination landscape. We are proud to mark this UN Day in solidarity with the men and women, young people, girls and boys of Bangladesh. The efforts over the past 50 years have helped to build this country, to place it firmly on the multilateral stage, and to move ahead in leaps and bounds towards the Sustainable Development Goals. And it is to the youth of Bangladesh that we would like to dedicate this exhibition because it is their vision that we are duty bound to take forward. I would like to thank the colleagues from across the UN agencies who have worked to pull together this wonderful display under the stewardship of Dr. Shahidul Alam and the dedicated team at Drik Gallery. Thank you to the Additional Secretary for being here as our Chief Guest and to all of you for joining us. Congratulations to the Interim Government on the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh in the United Nations, and happy UN Day to all!

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Press Release

05 November 2024

Establishing a quality care system in Bangladesh is a cornerstone for gender equality and social justice

Salma*, a young garment worker moved to Dhaka from Comilla along with her partner four years ago and they have an eight-month-old son now. They both found work in the same factory. The factory provided maternity leave and benefits during the birth of their child, and Salma returned to work after two months leave. She initially put her son in the daycare facility in the factory. With two breastfeeding breaks during work, Salma was able to ensure her child was exclusively breastfed for six months. While the daycare facility was free of charge, commuting with a young child was challenging. She recently opted for home-based childcare in her neighbourhood, leaving her son in the care of a woman until they return home from work. This service alone costs them BDT 4,000 per month, a significant portion of the family’s expenses given their combined monthly household income is BDT 35,000.Shafiq* is a sales manager in a pharmaceutical company, and lives in Dhaka with his family, including his aged mother who needs support with her daily activities. Although his wife, Shefa*, is an accounting graduate from the University of Dhaka, both Shafiq and Shefa decided that Shefa would leave her bank job to take care of Shafiq’s mother. Shefa hopes to return to her job someday. However, taking care of Shafiq’s mother remains a priority for the family at present.Rahmat* and Rehana* migrated from Mymensingh in search of work, and now live in Dhaka with their three daughters aged eight, six and two years. Rehana is a domestic worker, while Rahmat is a rickshaw puller. Rehana’s eldest daughter is yet to start school, as she must look after her two younger siblings, while her parents work. While Rahmat and Rehana would like to send their daughters to school someday soon, they are currently unable to find an arrangement to look after the youngest, so all three girls stay home. These are some stories of working Bangladeshi families highlighting challenges related to the absence of a comprehensive care system. With the changes in the nature of work, migration, inflation and climate change, the care arrangements of the past that heavily rely on families are no longer appropriate for today’s world of work. While Bangladesh continues to promote women’s economic participation, traditional approaches to care hinging on women as the primary caregivers in families remain prevalent. This limits women’s opportunities to get an education and skills required to establish their own businesses or enter and remain in workforce and contribute to the national economy. The country’s women’s participation rate in the labour force is low at 21.25 per cent.While new care solutions are being introduced by communities and entrepreneurs, their cost render them inaccessible to most families. The current care system needs to be reformed to ensure better supply, assured quality, accessibility and affordability for all. The government provides some child, elderly and disability care services but their reach is limited . For example, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs is currently running some 63 public funded childcare centres across the country. Further, the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 makes legal provisions for employers to ensure workplaces have childcare facilities, either on-site or off-site. A comprehensive care system would bring together people, institutions, and resources, both public and private, to deliver childcare, elderly care, healthcare, employment injury and rehabilitation support, and assistance for persons with disabilities and special needs. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Workers with Family Responsibilities Convention, 1981 (No 156) recognises the role of state, employers and workers organisations in providing care services to improve the quality of life of the workers, including their choice of productive work and employment. It highlights the importance of meaningful engagement of workers and their communities when planning and creating care-related solutions to ensure that they are efficient, accessible and truly cater to users’ needs. Professionalization of care work is essential for providing quality services. Currently, most care occupations and workers are not recognised in law as workers. This maintains informality, produces poor working conditions and provides limited opportunities for skills development and career advancement. Standardisation of care work and organising the care workforce to ensure that their voices are heard and incorporated when designing decent and dignified working conditions in care occupations is needed. Going forwards, the government, the private sector and workers need to establish together a roadmap for change so that the current care burden on women can be reduced through development of a care system that can serve the needs for a growing economy and social protection for all in Bangladesh. * Not their real namesThis Op-Ed was first published in The Daily Star on the International Day of Care and Support.

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Press Release

30 August 2024

Seven years since the Rohingya refugee influx in Bangladesh, UNHCR reminds need for international solidarity

As we mark seven years since the large-scale Rohingya refugee arrival, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, once again calls for sustained commitment from international partners to support the protection of nearly one million Rohingya hosted by Bangladesh, and to help secure solutions for a lasting end to their plight. On 25 August 2017, some 700,000 Rohingya men, women and children were forced to flee Myanmar and seek protection in Bangladesh, joining those who had fled in previous years. The generosity by the Government and the people of Bangladesh in providing the Rohingya temporary refuge was supported by the international community and has been critical in meeting the refugees’ protection and basic needs, alongside assistance provided to local hosting communities. But in recent months security issues and funding uncertainties undermine all but the most critical and lifesaving assistance. In Myanmar’s Rakhine state, the escalated conflict has only worsened conditions for the Rohingya. Many remain stateless with limited access to higher education and jobs, and vulnerable to violence. Yet refugees in Bangladesh continue to say that they long to return to their homes and villages when it is safe to do so. A dignified and sustainable return to Myanmar remains the primary solution to this crisis. We call on the international community to demonstrate the political will to make this possible.We also call on the Bangladesh authorities to ensure that civilians fleeing the violence in Myanmar be allowed access to protection in Bangladesh.Like all of us, the Rohingya aspire for better futures, not determined by religion, race, or the socio-economic conditions of their birth. In Cox’s Bazar and on Bhasan Char, 52 per cent of the refugee population are under 18 years old, many of them born in asylum or having spent their first years in refugee camps. With meaningful support and opportunities, they are capable of immense achievement. We must invest in Rohingya children, youth, women and girls, empowering them to lift their own communities. Through partnership and collective action, we can counter the harmful impacts of generations of violence and deprivation, including the harm caused by exploitative organized groups who prey on vulnerable youth in the camps.Already, thousands of Rohingya have taken positively to trainings and responsibilities to support critical services in the camps, including legal counseling, mental health, community health work, operation and maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure, shelter repair, as well as serving as first responders to weather and fire incidents. Enhancing resilience through skills, education and livelihoods programmes is critical to helping the refugees to stand on their own feet and move beyond aid dependency. UNHCR calls on stakeholders to continue their support for refugees’ self-reliance.In 2024, humanitarian agencies have appealed for $852 million to assist 1.35 million people, including Rohingya refugees and hosting Bangladeshi communities. We urge donors and private actors to step up their funding to the Rohingya response. The Rohingya people deserve our best, as do the generous people of Bangladesh who cannot be left to shoulder this crisis alone.FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Shari Yasmin Nijman; nijman@unhcr.org

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Press Release

13 September 2024

IFAD’s new Country Director for Bangladesh reassures continuous support in transforming rural economy

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) remains deeply committed to improving the lives and livelihoods of rural communities by boosting agricultural productivity, increasing rural incomes, and empowering smallholders and farmers, women, and youth, said Dr Valantine Achancho, IFAD's newly appointed Country Director for Bangladesh.“Bangladesh has incredible potential for agriculture and transforming rural communities. I am excited to collaborate with the government, our partners, and local communities to strengthen agricultural systems and improve lives nationwide. By working together, we can create sustainable growth and give smallholder farmers the support they need to overcome challenges and thrive,” said Achancho while presenting his credentials to Md Touhid Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Government of Bangladesh on Wednesday.Before coming to Bangladesh, Achancho served as IFAD Country Director and Representative for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo from 2020 to 2024 and has previously held the same position for Niger, Burkina Faso, and Chad. He also served as IFAD Country Programme Officer for Cameroon and Gabon, and Programme Officer for the Indian Ocean region, contributing to rural development projects in the Sahel and Congo basin, mobilising co-financing, and strengthening partnerships with governments, donors, and civil society to improve rural livelihoods.In his new role as Country Director for Bangladesh, Achancho will be advocating for and enhancing national government programmes that strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable rural communities through infrastructure and climate-smart agriculture, while enhancing access to finance, technology, and markets for smallholders and marginalized groups to diversify the economy and create rural jobs.“I am dedicated to collaborating with our partners to empower rural communities, enabling them to adapt to climate change, tackle economic challenges, and build sustainable livelihoods for long-term resilience,” says Achancho.Before joining IFAD in 2011, Achancho was deputy director of farmers’ professional organizations and cooperative movement, and senior engineer in charge of prospective analysis and agricultural policies in the Ministry of Agriculture in Cameroon. His earlier positions include national coordinator for Agence Française de Développement (AFD) funded project, visiting lecturer at the Faculty of Agronomy of the University of Dschang in Cameroon, and consultant for IFAD, the Word Bank and European Union operations. He holds a PhD in Sociology for Development from the Paris Institute of Technology for Life, Food and Environmental Sciences.Since 1978, IFAD has supported the Government of Bangladesh in its ambitious rural development goals. Over the past 45 years, IFAD has supported 37 projects, mobilizing USD 3.9 billion in financing, to improve the lives and livelihoods of more than 11 million families.Today, IFAD’s programme in Bangladesh is one of its largest. Currently, IFAD has an investment of USD 519 million in Bangladesh, distributed across six ongoing projects implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, the Local Government Engineering Department, the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation, and the Bangladesh Water Development Board. Media Contact: Farhana Urmee, f.urmee@IFAD.org

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Press Release

30 August 2024

Two million children at risk as worst floods in three decades lash through eastern Bangladesh

DHAKA, 30 August 2024 – Over two million children in eastern Bangladesh are at risk as floods sweep through homes, schools and villages, UNICEF has warned. In all, these floods, the worst in eastern Bangladesh in 34 years, have affected 5.6 million people.Major rivers in the southeast are overflowing due to unprecedented monsoon rains. As a result, more than 52 people have been reported dead. Over 500,000 people are seeking shelter, after rising waters from swollen rivers submerged homes, streets and fields in Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions. Millions of children and families are stranded without food and emergency relief supplies. Government personnel and volunteers are conducting rescue operations, though access remains difficult in some areas. In the coming days, more people will be affected as the monsoon season continues.“The devastating floods in the eastern parts of Bangladesh are a tragic reminder of the relentless impact of extreme weather events and the climate crisis on children. Far too many children have lost loved ones, their homes, schools, and now are completely destitute,” said Emma Brigham, Deputy Representative of UNICEF Bangladesh. “UNICEF is on the frontlines providing water purification tablets, oral rehydration salts and other essential supplies, but more funds are needed to reach these children and prevent an even more devastating impact on their futures.”UNICEF has been on the ground since the onset of the disaster. Having joined an initial assessment mission with the Advisor to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Hasan Arif, UNICEF with its partners has reached over 338,000 people, including 130,000 children, with life-saving supplies such as 3.6 million water purification tablets, 25,000 jerry-cans to store water and over 250,000 oral rehydration salt sachets.But much more is needed. People and children urgently require cash assistance, safe drinking water, hygiene kits, emergency latrines, sanitary pads, oral rehydration salts and emergency life-saving medicines. Primary healthcare services to treat sick newborns and children and help pregnant women to give birth must be restored immediately.The recent floods come close on the heels of the floods in north Bangladesh and Cyclone Remal in May. Jointly, the three emergencies have impacted over 13 million people across Bangladesh, including 5 million children.In response to these three emergencies, UNICEF urgently requires up to US$35.3 million for critical, life-saving, and multi-sectoral interventions for children, as well as pregnant and lactating women.Climate change increases the frequency, severity and unpredictability of cyclones, floods and other extreme weather events affecting Bangladesh, underscoring that the climate crisis is fundamentally a child rights crisis. According to the UNICEF Children’s Climate Risk Index, children in Bangladesh are the most exposed in the world to climate and environmental hazards.Globally, UNICEF addresses the climate crisis to:a) protect the lives, health and well-being of children;b) empower every child to become a champion for the environment; andc) reduce the emissions and environmental footprint.“Year on year, the lives of millions of children in Bangladesh are being ravaged by floods, heatwaves and cyclones. Climate change is clearly changing children’s lives,” adds Brigham. “We call on global leaders to act urgently, and take strong measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, before it is too late for children.” For more information, please contact: Faria Selim; Communication Specialist, UNICEF Bangladesh; fselim@unicef.org

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Story

25 March 2026

From Silent Struggles to Informed Choice

A Midwife Brings Life-Saving Reproductive Health Services to a Woman on a Remote Island in BholaBhola District, Bangladesh — On Char Kukri-Mukri, a remote island settlement at the edge of the Bay of Bengal in Char Fasson Upazila, access to quality health care has long been a challenge. Surrounded by shifting rivers and the sea, women here have faced distance, isolation and limited services. For years, the local Union Health and Family Welfare Centre (UH&FWC) remained under-utilized due to shortages of skilled providers and essential supplies.Today, that is changing. Through a joint initiative of the Government of Bangladesh and UNFPA, supported by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the deployment of trained midwives has helped transform the centre into a vital lifeline for women and girls on the char. Across Bangladesh, an estimated 5 million women who want to use modern, voluntary family planning methods still face barriers to access. Addressing this unmet need could prevent up to 1.2 million unintended pregnancies each year and significantly reduce maternal deaths. Investments in family planning also generate wide social and economic returns, saving an estimated USD 14 in health and social costs for every dollar spent.“Bangladesh is globally recognised for its progress in family planning, but sustaining these gains requires continued investment,” said Catherine Breen Kamkong, UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh. “Ensuring the presence of skilled midwives, along with reliable supplies of medicines and contraceptives, is critical to reaching women in hard-to-reach communities.”Recently, Rekha, 44, came to the centre for a postnatal visit with her newborn. Fatigue lined her face. During a gentle check-up, midwife Nazneen Akter created a safe space for conversation. Gradually, Rekha shared her story. She had been pregnant seven times and had experienced three pregnancy losses. She had never received comprehensive information about family planning. Oral contraceptive pills were used inconsistently, and long-acting methods felt unfamiliar and intimidating. At times, overwhelmed and with few options, she resorted to menstrual regulation kits from a local pharmacy, without knowing, placing her health at serious risk.Recognizing her vulnerability, Nazneen provided respectful, comprehensive counselling, addressing myths, fears and questions. Given Rekha’s reproductive history, Nazneen also recommended cervical cancer screening as part of routine reproductive health care. After informed discussion, Rekha agreed. When the screening result came back normal, she felt reassured about her health. With trust established, Nazneen introduced long-acting reversible contraceptive options. She explained how the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) works, its effectiveness, possible side effects and the fact that the method is voluntary and reversible. Based on Rekha’s informed choice and consent, the IUCD was inserted safely.The change in her expression was immediate.“Now I don’t have to live in constant fear of another pregnancy,” Rekha said softly. “I can focus on caring for the children I already have.”On remote islands like Char Kukri-Mukri, the presence of a skilled midwife is a gateway to information, dignity, and the right to make informed decisions about one’s own body.

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Story

25 March 2026

Breaking barriers: A Rohingya woman leader transforms her community through Gender Volunteer Programme

For more than 50 years, the Rohingya community in Myanmar has faced systematic persecution, including serious human rights violations. In 2017, so-called “clearance operations” triggered the largest mass exodus of Rohingya, forcing them to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh. Since then, more than 1 million refugees have been living in camps in Cox’s Bazar, their futures still uncertain.Among them is 27-year-old Khadija (name changed), a Rohingya woman who fled Myanmar under harrowing circumstances.*“That night, we heard gunshots and screams. Soldiers stormed our village and set our houses on fire. We fled with nothing, hiding in the jungle during the day of Eid-ul-Azha with my family. We walked for 15 days, surviving only on small amounts of food shared by our neighbours, before finally reaching Bangladesh.”Since 2019, Khadija has been working as a Gender Volunteer with UN Women, motivated by her personal experience of witnessing the vulnerabilities of women and girls.“I got married for my safety,” she shares. “But it was when I joined UN Women that I truly found my path, working to support Rohingya women and girls. I understand what they are going through because I’ve lived it too.”UN Women supported Gender Field Officers ensure the continuity of community engagement through a network of 53 Gender Volunteers, 27 women and 26 men, across six camps. These trained volunteers serve as critical links between communities and service-providers, collectively leading 203 community groups and delivering gender-responsive messages on topics such as gender equality and gender-based violence (GBV) prevention, while making essential referrals.“In the beginning, I didn’t know how to find solutions,” Khadija recalls. “But after receiving training from Gender Field Officers on behavioural change, GBV prevention and protection, I began to feel confident.”In just six months, she became an active community mobilizer, conducting daily household visits, group meetings, awareness sessions, case documentation and trainings for women and girls.As a leader of four community groups totaling 40 women and adolescent girls, Khadija provides a strong platform for peer learning and protection advocacy. Her groups are part of a broader community-based network led by Gender Volunteers – each supporting multiple groups across six camps.“Even during weekends and emergencies, I continue supporting my community. I established the ‘Rohingya Women Empower’ network in the camps, where we conduct weekend awareness sessions on gender messaging to build knowledge and confidence, and raise awareness on women’s human rights.”This leadership is especially critical in addressing sensitive issues that women may be reluctant to raise with male leaders.“As a woman Majhi (community leader), I have supported women since 2018 by building trust and addressing issues such as family conflict and violence. Women feel safer speaking with women leaders; women leaders' role is increasingly vital across the camps.” Rashida, female Mahji.Khadija’s work is not without risk. The deteriorating security in the camps is a constant worry. Sometimes, gender equality advocates hear threats because of their work. But seeing women in her group find the courage to speak up or access a service keeps her motivated. Her work involves handling sensitive cases, often related to GBV, with confidentiality and compassion.“It’s emotionally challenging, but building trust is essential. As a Gender Volunteer, I carefully refer and follow up on cases to ensure women receive the help they need.”As awareness of women’s rights grows, women like Khadija are increasingly engaging in dialogue with camp authorities to raise concerns and seek accountability.“Women need safe spaces and leadership roles, because when women lead, solutions are rooted in lived experience, trust, and community realities.” Silja Rajander, UN Women Head of Sub-office, Cox’s Bazar.This lived experience is echoed by Khadija:“We’ve spoken with our Camp-in-Charge (CiC), but we need more female CiCs. Women need safe spaces where we can gather, speak freely, and learn. Women understand each other – we share, listen, and support one another.”With generous support from the Government of Australia through its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Government of Switzerland through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the UN Women Gender Volunteer network has reached 17,865 women (16,969 Rohingya and 896 from host communities), including 1,092 women with disabilities, with protection and empowerment messaging in 2024.The programme has also facilitated 5,652 referrals to essential services, affirming the power of refugee-led solutions and the resilience of women leading from the front lines.

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25 March 2026

Letting the Light In: Making Violence Against Women Visible

In 2024, hundreds of trained data collectors travelled across Bangladesh as part of the Violence Against Women Survey, ensuring women’s experiences were counted, documented and understood. Among them was Tussa Chakma, a data collector deployed to the Chittagong Hill Tracts of south-eastern Bangladesh, a region marked by rugged terrain, cultural diversity and remote indigenous communities.Unlike the flat plains that dominate much of the country, the Hill Tracts present steep hills, dense forests and long travel distances. Reaching women in these settings requires not only technical skills, but trust, cultural understanding and patience.For Tussa, a Chakma woman herself, this was home.“To truly understand violence against women, you have to go where women live, even when those places are hard to reach,” she said.Ensuring a national survey is genuinely representative means reaching women across all geographies, identities and life circumstances. This was only possible through data collectors like Tussa, whose local knowledge, language skills and lived experience helped create safe spaces for women to speak.“It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, educated or not, living in Dhaka or in the char lands — violence happens everywhere,” Tussa explained. “We often think it happens to others, not to us. But it’s all around us.” The 2024 Violence Against Women Survey marks the third nationally representative survey of its kind in Bangladesh, building on earlier rounds while significantly expanding its scope. For the first time, the survey captures the experiences of women with disabilities, women living in disaster-prone areas and urban slums, survivors of technology-facilitated violence, and women bearing the often-hidden economic costs of abuse.The findings underscore the scale of the problem. More than half of ever-married women in Bangladesh have experienced at least one form of violence — physical, sexual, emotional or controlling behaviour — from a husband or intimate partner in their lifetime. Controlling behaviour alone affects 68 per cent of women, making it the most common form of husband-perpetrated violence, while emotional violence affects roughly four in ten women, frequently overlapping with other forms of abuse.Adolescent girls and young women face the highest risks.Tussa, a mother of two, says she “started everything late” after marrying shortly after finishing school — a reality shared by many girls across Bangladesh. While she has since built a career as a seasoned data collector, the survey confirms that early marriage does not protect girls from violence.According to the 2024 survey, girls aged 15–19 account for 62 per cent of survivors of intimate partner or husband-perpetrated violence in the past year. By contrast, the likelihood of experiencing such violence declines sharply with age. Women aged 45–49 face around 80 per cent lower odds of experiencing intimate partner violence compared to adolescent girls.“These findings challenge the belief that marriage ensures safety,” Tussa said. “For many girls, it increases their risk.”“Every interview is difficult to begin,” Tussa recalled. “You have to earn trust.” Once women felt safe, many shared experiences that stayed with her long after the interviews ended.“The women I met come back to me in flashes,” she said, recalling one survivor who carefully recorded her husband’s acts of violence in a notebook, hoping to identify patterns and prevent the next episode.“She was trying to protect herself,” Tussa explained. “Our role was not to judge or interpret; it was to listen with empathy and make sure her experience was recorded accurately.”Fear emerged as a recurring theme, and the data mirrors this reality. Women who reported being “most of the time” afraid of their husbands faced nine times higher odds of experiencing violence, while those who said they were “always” afraid faced a 15-fold increase in risk.This fear is not incidental. It is often sustained by controlling behaviour, emotional abuse and isolation, forming the foundation of violent relationships.By documenting these realities, the 2024 Violence Against Women Survey pulls back the curtain on violence that often remains hidden behind closed doors. The evidence it generates is critical to strengthening prevention efforts, improving survivor-centred services and informing policies that protect women and girls at every stage of life.Behind this national effort are women like Tussa who navigated difficult terrain, listened without judgement and helped ensure that survivors’ experiences were not erased.The 2024 Violence Against Women Survey, conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics with technical support from UNFPA, is available in full here:https://bangladesh.unfpa.org/en/2024-violence-against-women-survey

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25 March 2026

Rohingya women build confidence and independence through adult learning in Cox’s Bazar

In the Rohingya refugee camps, the day begins before sunrise. Narrow alleys are already alive with movement as families prepare for another day shaped by survival, routine and resilience. Amid the tightly packed shelters, 47-year-old Amina (name changed for her protection), begins her morning by preparing breakfast for her three children.Amina’s husband no longer lives with them, having chosen a separate life with a second wife. The responsibility of caring for the household rests solely on her shoulders. In the camps, every day demands careful planning, knowing where to go, whom to approach, and how to navigate a complex humanitarian environment made up of service centres, camp-in-charge offices and multiple humanitarian actors. Those who cannot read or write must constantly rely on others.For Amina, illiteracy had long been a painful limitation: “I felt helpless. I had to ask people about everything: what time to go for rations; when the water would come.”Amina’s world was shaped by waiting for others to interpret information for her, leaving her feeling excluded and unheard.When a neighbour told her about the Multi-Purpose Women’s Centre (MPWC), located within walking distance of her shelter, she described it as a safe space where women could learn to read and write and gain practical knowledge for daily life.“At first, I was afraid,” Amina says. “I had never been to school. I thought learning at my age was impossible, and I was scared of failing.”But the Accelerated Adult Learning (AAL) programme was designed for learners with no prior literacy experience. Lessons combined reading and writing with practical life skills, supported by visual aids that helped connect words with meaning. Most importantly, the teachers approached learning with patience, empathy and encouragement.“When the learners joined, they could not read or write. Today, they recognize their names and addresses, do basic calculations, and are dreaming of a better future for their children.” explains Aziza, an AAL Teacher at the MPWC.“I am a slow learner,” Amina admits. “But my MPWC teacher never gave up on me. She explained again and again until I understood. … Step-by-step, I started to recognize numbers and read simple words. … The day I signed my own name for the first time, instead of using my thumbprint, everything changed for me. Now, wherever I go, I can sign for myself and I no longer depend on neighbours.”The impact on Amina’s daily life has been profound. She can walk into camp offices, recognize their names and navigate services with greater confidence and independence.Her literacy journey has also strengthened her determination to support her children’s education. She is also encouraging other women in her block to enrol in literacy programmes, sharing her own experience as motivation.The training has equally opened new possibilities for her future. Now aware of other skills-building opportunities in the camp, she dreams of learning embroidery and tailoring, transforming literacy into a pathway towards income-generation.“I want to keep learning,” she says simply. “Because learning changes everything.”Through investments in women’s empowerment through AAL, UN Women, with the support of the Embassies of Japan, Sweden and Switzerland in Bangladesh, is strengthening the capacity of MPWCs and Women’s Markets across the Rohingya camps in Bangladesh.Altogether, 389 women (240 Rohingya women and 149 host community women) strengthened their basic literacy and numeracy skills through AAL and Second Chance Education programmes provided at UN Women-supported MPWCs in 2025.According to Silja Rajander, UN Women Head of Sub-Office, Cox’s Bazar: “Education is essential for the dignity, agency and leadership of Rohingya women and girls – and to the futures they are building.”

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11 March 2026

Empowering National Human Rights Commission is a must for Bangladesh

In the first session of Bangladesh’s 13th parliament, the government will place before it key ordinances promulgated during the interim period, including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance, 2025. With over 600 stakeholders contributing to consultations—including national experts, international voices such as the United Nations, and a wide spectrum of civil society—the drafting process of this ordinance has been unprecedented in its inclusivity. The breadth of engagement sends a strong signal that the weaknesses of the 2009 law needed to be addressed, and that an NHRC responding to the current demands in Bangladesh must have the authority and independence necessary to protect rights effectively.Consideration of the NHRC ordinance comes at a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic transition and institutional renewal. The National Human Rights Commission is central to that renewal. The government and parliament now have the opportunity to empower the commission by endorsing the ordinance and ensuring consideration of key proposals raised by various stakeholders to guarantee its independence, credibility, and service to all people in Bangladesh. A strong NHRC, accountable above all to the citizens, is not a peripheral body; it is a cornerstone of democratic governance, the rule of law, and public trust. It can serve as a vital bridge between citizens and the state—monitoring and investigating human rights conditions, advising on legislation, supporting victims, and promoting accountability.In many countries, national human rights institutions contribute to identifying structural human rights challenges, supporting institutional accountability, and helping address emerging tensions through independent analysis and constructive recommendations. A strengthened NHRC can also play a broader strategic role. The ordinance, in its current form, gives the commission clearer powers to promote and protect human rights, address complaints, conduct investigations, inspect places of detention, and seek remedies. It also designates the NHRC as the national preventive mechanism under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT), an important responsibility that will require ensuring adequate independence and resources.We welcome the ordinance as the most significant strengthening of the NHRC since its establishment, addressing many of the gaps that long limited its compliance with the Paris Principles, including the lack of financial and institutional independence and limitations in its powers. In a transitional context where accountability, prevention, and public confidence are paramount, these gains should be preserved and further strengthened through full parliamentary consideration and proper legislative debate.National human rights institutions, like the NHRC, ought to be established either through constitutional or legislative text. This calls for careful parliamentary deliberation to ensure the institution’s mandate, independence, and credibility are fully secured. It is therefore necessary for parliament, when establishing such institutions, to ensure the presence of a broad mandate, independence, and adequate protections, so that the institution can safeguard all rights and ensure victims are not ignored.Bangladesh can finally establish a National Human Rights Commission fully compliant with the Paris Principles—an institution marked by independence, pluralism, a broad mandate, transparent selection processes, and meaningful engagement with civil society. It would be the commission that many Bangladeshi women and men have long called for. Doing so would reinforce the country’s long-standing commitment to human rights, strengthen public confidence, and advance democratic governance and justice for all.Stefan Liller is the United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i and the UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh.Ajit Singh is the High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh.Christian Brix Møller is the Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh.Joris van Bommel is the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh.Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen is the Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh.

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Press Release

10 March 2026

UNOPS Bangladesh marks International Women’s Day 2026 with young leaders

UNOPS Bangladesh commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 by hosting an inspiring event with students of Holy Cross Girls’ High School and College in Dhaka, bringing together young girls, diplomats, government representatives and development partners to reflect on the global theme “Rights, Justice, Action, For ALL Women and Girls,” reports a press release.Organised under the Accelerate SDG Localisation Project, the event placed adolescent girls at the centre of conversations on gender equality, leadership, and civic engagement, creating a space for dialogue between students and leaders working to advance women’s rights in Bangladesh.The programme was honoured by the presence of Gabriel Sistiaga, ambassador of Spain to Bangladesh, who joined as Chief Guest during the school session.Sudhir Muralidharan, country Manager of UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan, and Navanita Sinha, deputy representative of UN Women Bangladesh, delivered special remarks highlighting the importance of empowering young women and girls as future leaders.The session also featured a keynote presentation by Advocate Peya Jannatul, lawyer at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, who shared insights on women’s rights, justice, and the importance of leadership and resilience among young women.During the college session, the event was graced by Nasreen Jahan, secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, as the chief guest, alongside HE Shiuneen Rasheed, high commissioner of the Maldives to Bangladesh, who joined as a special guest. In his remarks, Sudhir Muralidharan, country manager of UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan, highlighted the importance of engaging young women in conversations around rights and leadership.He noted that empowering girls with knowledge, confidence and opportunities is essential to building inclusive and equitable societies.The event also included student performances, interactive discussions, and reflections from students themselves, allowing young participants to share their perspectives on rights, justice and gender equality.Through the Accelerate SDG Localization Project, UNOPS Bangladesh works to bring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) closer to communities by promoting locally driven action. By engaging students and educational institutions, the initiative helps raise awareness and inspire young people to contribute to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).The celebration reaffirmed UNOPS Bangladesh’s commitment to supporting initiatives that empower women and girls, amplify youth voices, and advance inclusive and sustainable development across the country.

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Press Release

09 March 2026

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Economic Relations Division Signs Five Technical Assistance Projects

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) signed five projects with the Government of Bangladesh today, 8th March 2026 at the Economic Relations Division (ERD), Ministry of Finance. Four of these projects, respectively, “Adoption of stress-tolerant varieties, disease management and improved mechanization in rice”; “Enhancing Food Systems in Bangladesh with emphasis on the availability of safe foods”; “Integrated Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management for Sustainable Livelihoods and Fisheries in the Haors of Moulvibazar” and “Strengthening Export Competitiveness of Jara Lemon (Citrus medica)” are funded under FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) allocation, and the remainder, “Productivity enhancement of priority crops through piloting and upscaling of tailored, innovative, climate resilient, and sustainable agricultural practices in South Asian countries” project is financed by FAO’s Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC) pooled funded instrument. TCPs have been pivotal in making FAO’s technical expertise available to member countries upon request, since its creation in 1976. TCP projects also contribute significantly to FAO’s work in Bangladesh, providing access to a wide range of technical expertise related to agriculture, food and nutrition. All projects are aligned with the national planning documents, strategies and priorities of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. Jiaoqun Shi, FAO Representative in Bangladesh, emphasized the collaborative efforts and stated, “I hope the allocated funds serve their purpose and work towards mobilizing larger investments towards more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems in the country—for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.” In his concluding remarks, Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division, reiterates ERD's commitment to engagement with FAO and calls upon FAO to focus on climate-sensitive agricultural interventions, leveraging innovative financing models such as equity and insurance, building food quarantine facilities, and developing agro-product market value chains locally, regionally, and even globally. Projects in Brief:Adoption of stress-tolerant varieties, disease management and improved mechanization in riceWith a budget of USD 250 000, the project, in collaboration with Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), aims to minimize yield loss due to abiotic and biotic stresses and reduce cultivation costs by expanding mechanization during transplanting, harvesting, and post-harvesting operations. Enhancing Food Systems in Bangladesh with emphasis on the availability of safe foodsWith a total investment of USD 270 000, the TCP project aims to develop the implementation process for food systems transformation, as well as its financing strategy and mechanisms, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. The project also envisages capacity enhancement that complements existing initiatives of the Ministry of Food, the Food Planning and Monitoring Unit (FPMU), and the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA). Integrated Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management for Sustainable Livelihoods and Fisheries in the Haors of MoulvibazarWorking hand-in-hand with the Department of Fisheries (DoF), the TCP, with a funding of USD 250 000, aims to promote an Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) to restore the haor ecosystems in the district, enhance the biodiversity of selected threatened fish species, replenish fish stocks, and improve the livelihoods of local communities. Strengthening Export Competitiveness of Jara Lemon (Citrus medica)With a budget of USD 275 000, the project, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), aims to develop a sustainable value chain for Jara Lemon by strengthening production and quality, while increasing incomes and creating opportunities for women and youth across Jara Lemon clusters in Bangladesh. Productivity enhancement of priority crops through piloting and upscaling of tailored, innovative, climate resilient, and sustainable agricultural practices in South Asian countries The project, with a total investment of USD 216 000, will work with BRRI towards improving the productivity of Boro rice, Fallow, T. Aman rice, and Rapeseed mustard cropping systems in Bangladesh. For more information, please contact Naila Fahmin Rasha, National Communication Specialist: naila.rasha@fao.org This news release was issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Bangladesh Country Office.

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Press Release

05 March 2026

Japan commits $3.2 million to sustain life-saving sexual and reproductive health services for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh

The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its strong commitment to the Rohingya humanitarian response by approving JPY 500 million (approximately USD 3.2 million) in funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).The new two-year project will aim at protecting the health and rights of women and adolescents affected by displacement in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. The funding will enable UNFPA to sustain essential life-saving sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender-based violence services for Rohingya refugees and surrounding host communities.The Rohingya crisis remains one of the world’s protracted humanitarian crises, with Cox’s Bazar hosting over one million refugees alongside vulnerable host communities. Since 2024, a new influx of estimated 150,000 arrivals, over half of them women and girls, has further strained already cramped settlements. Despite these growing needs, the funding environment became increasingly constrained, leaving the 2025-2026 Joint Response Plan for the Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis significantly underfunded.This shortfall has already forced the closure of six government-run health facilities that supported refugees, a 16% reduction in the midwifery workforce and over 50% reduction in the number of GBV case managers. Japan’s timely contribution will provide a vital lifeline, allowing UNFPA to maintain around the clock emergency obstetric care, GBV case management, and mental health support for approximately 180,000 direct beneficiaries.“The Government of Japan’s continued partnership comes at a critical moment for women and girls in the Rohingya response,” said Catherine Breen Kamkong, UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh. “This funding will allow UNFPA to sustain life-saving services that protect the health and dignity of women and adolescents who would otherwise face devastating gaps in care. We are deeply grateful for Japan’s principled and consistent support.”The new phase builds on tangible results from previous Japan-funded initiatives. More than 38,000 women and girls have accessed essential services at UNFPA-supported facilities across Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char, helping to sustain critical care. The partnership also successfully expanded survivor-centred GBV services through Women Friendly Spaces and Women-Led Community Centres, reaching thousands of vulnerable women and girls. In Bhasan Char, Japan’s support contributed to the operationalization of the 20-bed hospital, significantly reducing life-threatening referrals and helping maintain exceptionally low maternal mortality rates in the years following its operationalization. Adolescent empowerment initiatives strengthened life skills and gender equality awareness among girls and boys, supporting longer-term prevention of gender-based violence.Since 2017, the Government of Japan has contributed over USD 250 million to the Rohingya humanitarian response to UN agencies and NGOs in Bangladesh, including through UNFPA, making it one of the most consistent and reliable partners in addressing the needs of displaced populations and host communities in Bangladesh.H.E. Mr. Saida Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh expressed his hope that the support from the Government of Japan would improve the living conditions of both Rohingya refugees and host communities.“Japan remains firmly committed to protecting the most vulnerable, particularly women and adolescents affected by displacement. Through our partnership with UNFPA, we aim to ensure continued access to essential health and protection services, even in the face of growing humanitarian and funding challenges,” said Ambassador Saida Shinichi. UNFPA and the Government of Japan partnership will aim at continuing to inspire international solidarity and sustained investment in the protection, health, and dignity of women and girls affected by the Rohingya crisis. Media inquiriesEmbassy of Japan in BangladeshPublic Relations+8802222260010publicrelations@dc.mofa.go.jpUNFPA BangladeshGulalek Soltanova, Chief of Communication+8801332112579soltanova@unfpa.org

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Press Release

05 March 2026

UNFPA Hosts Open Mic to Amplify Public Voices for Women’s and Girls’ Rights

To mark International Women’s Day, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bangladesh organized today an Open Mic event at Shahabuddin Park, inviting members of the public to raise their voices for the rights, justice and empowerment of women and girls across the country.Held under the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” the event created a public platform for women, girls, men and boys to share their reflections, commitments and aspirations for a more equal Bangladesh.Addressing the gathering, UNFPA Representative in Bangladesh Catherine Breen Kamkong thanked participants for their courage and engagement, emphasizing that meaningful change begins by listening to communities.“Policies and programmes are strongest when they reflect and are guided by real voices and lived experiences,” the UNFPA Representative said. “At UNFPA, we are committed to preventing violence against women and girls, ending child marriage, reducing adolescent pregnancy, ending preventable maternal deaths and ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health and rights. But sustainable progress requires collective action, and that starts with dialogue.”Bangladesh has made significant progress in advancing gender equality. However, challenges remain. Violence against women continues to affect millions, child marriage persists as a reality for almost half of all adolescent girls, mothers still die in pregnancy and birth, and many women and girls still face barriers in exercising full agency over their health and life choices.“Many girls are still discouraged from studying technology and engineering, and too often they face cyberbullying and online harassment. Initiatives like Alapon Helpline help adolescents to have a safe space to openly share their struggles, talk about mental health, and support each other. When young people feel heard, they find strength and hope to move forward,” said Farhana Sadika, a student at the United International University speaking at the Open Mic event about the challenges girls face in her community. The Open Mic event forms part of UNFPA Bangladesh’s broader International Women’s Day campaign, which aims to highlight data, personal stories and community voices to drive action on women’s and girls’ rights.UNFPA reaffirms its commitment to working alongside the Government of Bangladesh, partners and communities to ensure that every woman and girl can live free from violence, make informed decisions about her future, and move beyond survival to thrive and realize her fullest potential.For more information, contact:Gulalek Soltanova, Chief of Communication+8801332112579soltanova@unfpa.org

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Press Release

11 February 2026

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.

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