On International Women’s Day, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus emphasized the need for collective action against forces that undermine women’s rights in Bangladesh. Speaking at an award ceremony at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium, Yunus called for all citizens to join together in resisting growing anti-women forces in the country.
“The anti-women forces trying to emerge must be tackled together with all the people of the country,” Yunus stated. “We must change the mindset of looking down on women in our society to build a future free from discrimination.”
The event, attended by UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis, Dhaka University professor Gitiara Nasreen, and Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Mamtaj Ahmed, also featured Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid.
Yunus expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of violence against women, noting that such actions run contrary to the vision of a “New Bangladesh.” He underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights for men and women in the nation, stating, “We will establish these rights with all our strength.”
Highlighting the courage and contributions of women in politics, economics, and other sectors, Yunus urged heightened vigilance to protect women and children from violence. He warned of attempts to sow chaos in the country, urging citizens to remain alert and united in the fight against oppression.
In his address, Yunus outlined several governmental initiatives aimed at supporting women, including the introduction of a hotline for reporting violence and updates to the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act. A new law, the Sexual Harassment Prevention and Protection Act, is also in the works.
Additionally, Yunus celebrated the participation of women in sports during the “Youth Festival 2025,” which saw 27.4 lakh girls from across Bangladesh engage in over 3,000 activities. The event also highlighted the spontaneous support from men for women’s rights and their active role in a more inclusive society.
Remembering the sacrifices of women during Bangladesh’s Liberation War and the July Uprising of 1971, Yunus paid tribute to the brave women who fought for the country’s independence. He also acknowledged the ongoing struggle for women’s empowerment, stating that the government is focused on economic initiatives, including financial assistance, training, and microcredit programs to support women.
Yunus concluded his speech by urging men to work alongside women as equal partners in building a new Bangladesh. “We will fully utilize the opportunity history has given us,” he declared, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to a future where women are given their rightful place in society.
During the ceremony, Professor Yunus presented the “Indomitable Women’s Award-2025” to five women and the Bangladesh Female Cricket Team for their remarkable contributions across various fields.
