A call for greater inclusivity in digital and civic spaces and the need to combat gender disinformation resonated strongly at a networking meeting of civil society organizations (CSOs) hosted by Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) at the YWCA of Bangladesh training centre in the capital on Thursday.
Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring that civic space is not dominated by the majority but remains open to all, in line with the global principle of "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB).
Discussions highlighted the long-standing marginalization of indigenous communities across different regimes in Bangladesh. Participants underscored the urgency of building awareness among law enforcement agencies and embedding respect for socially excluded groups within early childhood education.
The event brought together notable speakers, including Dalia Chakma, gender lead at Sparc, Udisa Islam, city editor at Bangla Tribune, Sharmin Ur Nahar, senior lecturer at Department of Bangla Language and Literature at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, and Nadira Parvin, project manager at Nagorik Udyog, among others.
They collectively stressed the importance of inclusive education, advocating for the integration of freedom of expression and civic responsibility into school curricula.
VOICE Executive Director Ahmed Swapan Mahmud said: “The importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. Journalists, NGOs, CSOs, digital rights activists, and human rights defenders must come together to share knowledge, highlight successful strategies, and identify challenges in combating disinformation and protecting individuals’ rights to freedom of expression.”
Promiti Prova Chowdhury, project manager, VOICE, presented striking cases of DCS violations and gender disinformation from recent past.
She said: “With threats from state and non-state actors alike, tackling the increasing dangers to free expression requires a unified approach. By joining forces, the various stakeholders can uphold freedom of speech and gender equality online and offline.”
Speakers pointed out that a certain group is currently attempting to amplify existing societal divides, making it crucial to incorporate teachings of inclusivity and the "Do No Harm" approach within the education system.
Participants called for school-based awareness programs to promote respect for marginalized communities, combat gender disinformation, and create safer digital and civic spaces for all.
The networking meeting served as a platform to strategize ways to strengthen digital and civic engagement while addressing the growing challenges posed by disinformation, particularly targeting gender and minority groups.
