Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have demanded the establishment of a children's affairs reform commission, similar to the Women's Affairs Reform Commission, in addition to the creation of a separate department for children, to address growing concerns over child abuse, violence, and exploitation in Bangladesh.
At a press conference titled "Joint Protest and Expression of Concern by Child Rights NGOs on Child Rape, Torture, and Murder" at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on Sunday, human rights activists and child rights organizations raised grave concerns over the alarming rise in violence against children.
Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK), Breaking the Silence (BTS), Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), Plan International Bangladesh, and Save the Children jointly organized the event, where they expressed outrage over the continuous sexual violence incidents that have shaken the nation and led to widespread protests.
Speakers at the event emphasized that children in Bangladesh are not safe anywhere—not even in their homes, schools, or communities.
They are increasingly becoming victims of rape, sexual assault, hazardous labor, online violence, and kidnapping, they said.
They pointed out that not only girls but also boys are subjected to various forms of abuse, including sexual harassment.
Human rights advocates argued that such incidents continue to occur because government institutions responsible for child protection are neither effective nor accountable.
They urged the government to prioritize child safety, strengthen the justice system, and ensure that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
Speakers at the event cited the recent brutal rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in Magura as yet another tragic example of children's vulnerability, even in spaces where they should feel safe.
They emphasized that this case is among many that highlight the urgent need to break the culture of silence, eliminate the stigma surrounding survivors, and create a secure environment where children are truly protected.
In solidarity with nationwide protests, the press conference sought to unite voices for justice and change.
Speakers stressed the necessity of functional and accountable institutions, including the proposed department of children and the children’s affairs reform commission, which would be dedicated to addressing child abuse and ensuring justice for victims.
The speakers collectively urged the government to recognize that children are among the most vulnerable and easily targeted members of society.
They called for immediate action to hold families, communities, and institutions accountable for ensuring the protection of children across Bangladesh.
Among the speakers were Tamanna Hoq Riti, coordinator of Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK); Mohammad Zahidul Islam, director of program and planning at Breaking the Silence; Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF); Kabita Bose, country director of Plan International Bangladesh; and Abdulla Al Mamun, director of Child Protection and Child Rights Governance at Save the Children in Bangladesh.
Key demands presented at the press conference include:
- Legal reforms and expedited justice
- Establishment of a Child Affairs Directorate
- Formation of a Child Affairs Reform Commission
- Strengthening family protection measures
- Implementation and enforcement of child protection laws
- Ensuring safety in educational institutions
- Independent monitoring and evaluation to prevent child abuse
- Mental health support for child survivors of abuse
- Strengthening law enforcement agencies to ensure child safety
- National-level education and awareness campaigns
- Expanded support mechanisms for survivors, including counseling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services
- Active community engagement with leaders, teachers, and parents to create a safer environment for children
- Full functionality of child help desks in all police stations
- Protection for survivors, witnesses, and their families
- Enhancement of child protection hotlines (109 and 1098), with regular reporting on received complaints and follow-up actions
- Submission of UNCRC periodic state report.
