Bangladesh’s Ministry of Women and Children Affairs celebrates International Women’s Day

Bangladesh’s Ministry of Women and Children Affairs with the support of UNICEF and the European Union has inaugurated the International Women’s Day celebration nationwide.

As a part of the prevention of harmful practices and violence against children and women program, the day’s celebration was inaugurated at Koral T&T Field in Dhaka’s Banani, according to a press release.

Additional Secretary of Women and Children Affairs Rowsan Ara Begum, attending the program as the chief guest, emphasised the elimination of gender discrimination and urged all members of the society to come forward, especially men.

She ended her speech with a reminder of smart Bangladesh that can only happen if men and women can progress simultaneously.

Unicef Bangladesh’s Child Protection Manager Elisa Calpona said, “We must work together to create a society where girls and women are valued and respected, and where they can live their lives free from violence and discrimination.”

Monira Hassan, a child protection specialist at UNICEF Bangladesh, emphasised the importance of internet safety, highlighting cyberbullying awareness and control.

She requested everyone to call child helpline 1098 for any help available round the clock.

S M Latif, joint secretary, and project director of APC, presided over the program.

An awareness session was also conducted during the event -- on online safety. More than 400 children and community members participated in the discussion session and attended the program.