‘ASTHA’ to strengthen support for gender violence survivors

Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), a national legal aid and human rights organisation, has officially launched a new project titled ‘ASTHA’, aimed at increasing access of the women and girls who are at risk or survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), to multi-sectoral public services.

With the goal of contributing to Government of Bangladesh and Civil Society Organization (CSO) efforts to reduce gender-based violence, the rights body launched the project Tuesday at CIRDAP in the capital.

Sheepa Hafiza, Executive Director of Ain o Salish Kendra chaired the event while Nasima Begum NDC, Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (MoWCA), was present as the Chief Guest.

The Embassy of the Netherlands is funding the project and it will receive technical support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Bangladesh, according to an ASK press statement.

‘ASTHA’ has already been providing social, legal and medical support to survivors of GBV in four districts of Bangladesh- Bogura, Patuakhali, Jamalpur, and Cox’s Bazar, in cooperation with local partners such as Shushilan, Gana Unnayan Kendra, and YPSA.

Speaking on the occasion, Nasima Begum said “Our government is very quick to respond when it comes to GBV, besides 999 we have also added 109 so that survivors and those at risk have a direct line to report cases”.

UNFPA deputy country representative, Eiko Narita stated “Physical violence is visible, but no one sees when the heart is bleeding inside. Girls, who face violence, need counseling for their mental wellbeing and ASTHA project can and will support these girls”.

Dutch ambassador Harry Verweij also spoke at the event. He said "The Netherlands government prioritises tackling gender based violence, we aim to ensure a life for everyone free from discrimination and violence. We ensure women have agency, to be the decision maker in their lives."