ActionAid Bangladesh urges increased investment for women empowerment

ActionAid Bangladesh has urged for greater investment to accelerate the empowerment of women in the country, amplifying their rights and opportunities.

The call to action came during a programme held at the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation auditorium in the capital's Agargaon on Sunday to observe International Women's Day.

State Minister for Women and Children Affairs, Simeen Hussain (Rimi), MP, joined the programme as as the chief guest, reports UNB.

The programme highlighted the achievements of three women who were awarded the "Nasreen Smriti Padak 2024" in recognition of their exceptional contributions.

Emily Hembram was recognised for her efforts in ending sexual harassment, violence, and child marriage; Nasreen Akhter for her leadership in tackling climate change risks and protecting natural resources; and Fahmida Begum for her entrepreneurial spirit.

The function showcased videos featuring the stories of successful women who have overcome societal obstacles to achieve remarkable accomplishments.

Additionally, guests, including State Minister Simin Hossain (Rimi), MP, viewed an exhibit of paintings by young artists.

The day's events included an art camp, a prize distribution ceremony, and a panel discussion titled ‘Celebrating Women Leadership: Are We Investing Enough?’ Experts from diverse fields participated in the discussion, highlighting the current situation, challenges, and opportunities for advancing women's equal rights and opportunities through increased investment.

Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, shed light on the organization's contribution to women's development at various levels, from individual to community impact.  She said, ‘ActionAid Bangladesh has consistently advocated for women's progress in the country. The organization plays a leading role in establishing an equal rights-based society, focusing on women's protection, recognition of unpaid work, prevention of gender-based violence, and economic empowerment.

State Minister Simeen Hussain (Rimi), MP, said there is no alternative to increasing investment to ensure sustainable development of women and eliminate gender inequality.

She stated that, "We have made great strides in women empowerment. But there's still a long way to go and we can’t stop here. Investing in girls should be considered as a necessity, not a priority. We need to increase investment to reduce the gender gap and investments must be ensured for women in the last mile. For the development of women, we need to uplift their education, mental health, physical health as well as the perspective of people. For sustainable development of women in our country, the government and private sector must come forward.’

The officials from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, government and non-governmental organizations, representatives from ActionAid Bangladesh, young leaders from various sectors, prominent entrepreneurs, and media personnel were present at the event.