ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that the government is dedicated to creating a Bangladesh where men and women have equal rights and women can contribute to family, state, and society with respect, dignity, and security.
In a message marking International Women’s Day, observed on March 8, the PM said equality must become a promise fulfilled in society. “In our society, let equality be a promise, dignity a reality, and empowerment the foundation of development,” he said.
This year, the day is being observed with the theme “Today’s steps, tomorrow’s justice: Protect the rights of women and girls.”
The Prime Minister said sustainable development of a country is possible only when women’s rights, education, health, security, and participation are ensured. In this context, he described the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day as highly significant.
Rahman noted that nearly half of the world’s population is women and said no nation can achieve development if women remain outside the mainstream of the state, government, and politics.
“In particular, if women’s economic empowerment is not ensured, the benefits of overall development cannot be fully achieved,” he said.
Highlighting the role of former president Zia ur Rahman and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, he said their leadership contributed significantly to women’s political and economic empowerment in Bangladesh.
The PM said the government has introduced the “Family Card” program to strengthen women’s economic empowerment and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring women’s effective participation in all sectors, including education, the economy, health and politics.
“Our goal is to implement our election pledges by introducing free education up to the postgraduate level, increasing women’s participation in higher education, providing free school uniforms for girls and expanding digital learning facilities and modern education systems,” he said.
Rahman added that the government is also prioritizing women’s safety and has taken a strong stance against cyberbullying and online harassment targeting women.
He said ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for women is essential for building a just and prosperous society.
