Marking a crucial advancement in the fight against gender-based violence, the European Union (EU) and UN Women have formalized a partnership at the EU office in Dhaka.
This collaboration aims to prevent sexual and gender-based violence in public spaces, workplaces and tertiary educational institutions across Bangladesh.
Aligned with Bangladesh’s commitment to creating "a society without violence against women and children by 2025," as outlined in the National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against Women and Children (2018–2030) (NAPVAWC), this initiative will integrate strategies for both prevention and response to gender-based violence (GBV).
The focus will be on addressing sexual harassment and violence in key areas of daily life, including public spaces, workplaces and educational institutions.
The partnership will support UN Women's advocacy for the government to swiftly fulfill its commitments to international gender equality and human rights standards.
These include recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review, the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the NAPVAWC.
Furthermore, the project will contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal indicator 5.1.1, which aims to end all forms of discrimination against women and girls.
Building on the EU’s political and financial support, and UN Women's prevention programming over the past five years, the €4.8 million grant will focus on three critical areas:
Strengthening an enabling environment through policies, systems and improved institutional knowledge, resources and practices to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Transforming harmful social and gender norms to address discriminatory practices. And, strengthening the agency and leadership of civil society and women’s rights organizations to ensure sustained impact.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Michael Miller, ambassador and head of delegation of the EU to Bangladesh, said: “This intervention is an example of the European Union taking every opportunity to advance gender equality and eliminate violence against women and girls. It will foster safe environments where women and girls can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination. The EU is proud to partner with UN Women and to support the authorities of Bangladesh in meeting the rightful expectations of its citizens.”
Acknowledging the EU for its support and strategic partnership, UN Women Representative Gitanjali Singh said: "This year marks a pivotal moment for women’s rights as we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The collaboration with the EU to advance gender equality will enable UN Women to continue the critical work of preventing violence against women and girls, addressing discriminatory norms and investing in civil society to make gender equality a lived reality in Bangladesh."
