Misinterpretation of religion and entrenched patriarchal attitudes remain major barriers to women's empowerment in Bangladesh, highlighting the need for stronger efforts to uphold the rights of girls and promote their leadership and participation in society.
The issue was highlighted by Prime Minister's Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapon, MP, while speaking as the chief guest at Save the Children's IDG Carnival 2026 in Dhaka on Thursday, marking the International Day of the Girl.
“These challenges must be addressed if we are to build an equitable, inclusive and developed Bangladesh. Alongside reducing existing inequalities between women and men, it is essential to ensure equal opportunities for women in education, employment, leadership and decision-making,” he said.
He said the government places particular importance on gender equality and women's empowerment as part of its vision for building the Bangladesh of the future. However, achieving this goal requires effective contributions from both the government and development partners.
“Save the Children’s experience, support and partnerships can make an important contribution in this regard. We hope Save the Children will continue working alongside the government in advancing women’s rights, eliminating discrimination and building a more equitable society,” he added.
Held under the theme “Rooted in Every Region, Advancing Every Adolescent Girl,” the carnival brought together policymakers, development partners, youth representatives and other stakeholders.
The event was organized under Save the Children in Bangladesh’s SWOCCHAR project, with funding from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in collaboration with the National Youth Network (NYN) and women-led organizations.
Dr Md Saimum Parvez, special assistant to the prime minister on environment, forest and climate change, attended as the guest of honor. Members of Parliament Helen Zerin Khan, Mahmuda Habiba and Mansura Akter attended as special guests. Dr Eliza Azei, head of the Adolescents and Youth Program at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Bangladesh, was also present.
Discussions at the event highlighted the need to remove barriers faced by girls and adolescent girls in accessing education, employment, leadership opportunities, entrepreneurship and decision-making.
Speakers stressed the importance of coordinated efforts by families, communities, the government, development partners and other institutions to create safe, inclusive and supportive environments where girls’ voices, experiences and needs are recognized and valued.
The initiative aimed to strengthen collective efforts to promote the rights and empowerment of girls and adolescent girls. Participants expressed the expectation that equal opportunities, greater recognition of girls’ voices and increased participation in policymaking and decision-making would contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.
