Women and children are subjected to violence and repression across the country and all of us need to stand together against this, said Dhaka University Vice-chancellor Dr AAMS Arefin Siddique yesterday.
“The 21st century is based on science and knowledge, and hence, there should be no gender inequality, discrimination and racism. Every human being should have equal rights,” he said while addressing a rally arranged to observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
With the slogan “Family and society to prevent violence against women and children”, the Department of Women and Gender Studies of Dhaka University and Bangladesh Mahila Parishad organised the rally in front of Aparajeyo Bangla on the university campus.
Bangladesh Mahila Parishad President Ayesha Khanam told the rally the achievements of a society where women and children face violence are of no value.
“Our achievements will not be appreciated if women are abused in the society. Also, economic progress will mean nothing if abuse of women and children continues,” she said.
Nari Maitree and Domestic Workers Rights Network formed a human chain in front of the National Press Club while Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha brought out a procession in the capital city marking the day.
Also, in line with the “Orange the World” campaign, a 16-day campaign kicked off in the capital yesterday which would continue till Human Rights Day on December 10.
“Orange the World” is part of the United Nations secretary general’s UNiTE to End Violence Against Women campaign. The colour orange, which symbolises a bright and optimistic future free from violence against women and girls, will help unify the large-scale social mobilisation.
This year’s “Orange the World” initiative will focus on the theme of preventing violence against women and girls, according to the United Nations News Centre.
