Women's leadership opportunities must expand alongside economic gains: Moyeen Khan

BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Monday said that although women's participation in Bangladesh's economy and productive sectors has increased significantly over the years, greater efforts are needed to expand their rights and leadership opportunities.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the "Women in Leadership & Governance Conference 2026" in the capital, he said women at the grassroots level were playing a vital role in advancing the country's economy.

"Millions of women working in the ready-made garment sector are making a substantial contribution to export earnings and economic growth," he said, adding that around four million women are employed in the industry, which remains one of the key pillars of Bangladesh's economy.

Despite their significant contribution to economic activities, women are still deprived of many of the rights and opportunities they deserve, he observed, stressing the need to strengthen women's participation in leadership, administration and decision-making processes.

The conference, organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) through its Gender Inclusion and Leadership Committee (GILC), was inaugurated at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden.

Former caretaker government adviser Rasheda K Chowdhury and Member of Parliament Jahrat Adib Chowdhury attended the opening ceremony as guests of honour.

Addressing the event, GILC Chair and ICAB Council Member Zareen Mahmud Hosein said stronger leadership is built through partnership and collaboration among institutions working towards a common goal.

ICAB Vice-President Suraiya Zannath and President N K A Mobin reaffirmed the institute's commitment to promoting gender inclusion and creating greater pathways for women to assume leadership and governance roles.

The keynote address was delivered by Akhtar Sanjida Kasem, who shared findings from the ICAB Gender Dashboard and Women on Boards Survey.

According to the organisers, the conference aims to advance discussions on leadership development, governance readiness and board diversity by bringing together policymakers, regulators, corporate leaders, development partners and representatives of professional bodies.

Several panel discussions and special sessions featuring leaders from professional organisations, the corporate sector and development institutions are scheduled as part of the conference programme.

Speakers are expected to focus on women's leadership development, board representation, and greater participation in governance and decision-making roles.

The conference is being supported by United Commercial Bank PLC as the title sponsor, while ACCA, ICMAB, ICSB and IIAB are serving as strategic partners. IFC is providing technical support.

bdsmile@gmail.com