Advancing Women's Participation in Bangladeshi Politics

Zaima Rahman, daughter of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman, has emphasized the critical role political parties must play in enhancing women's participation in politics. Speaking at a seminar titled "Women in the Struggle for Democracy: Contributions and Future Bangladesh," organized by Women in Democracy (WIND), she highlighted the challenges women face in entering political spheres, stating that while men find it easier to assume political roles, women encounter significant barriers.

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political partiesProtect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

Rahman advocated for the establishment of internal codes of conduct within political parties to ensure the safety of women involved in politics. She asserted that these codes should protect women from harassment and abuse, stating, "If anything happens to a woman leader... the parties will protect the woman through the legal code of conduct." This approach aims to create a supportive environment where women can engage in political activities without fear of violence or discrimination.

Protect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

Rahman pointed out that the absence of a sustained leadership pipeline from student politics to national decision-making bodies limits women's advancement. She stressed the need for mentorship and training, urging political parties to actively support young women aspiring to leadership roles. Economic factors, including campaign financing and organizational costs, were identified as significant obstacles that deter women from contesting leadership positions. Rahman called for increased financial assistance to reduce these inequalities, stating, "Financing is a major factor in politics."

Protect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

Farah Kabir, country director of ActionAid Bangladesh, echoed Rahman's sentiments, highlighting a concerning trend of diminishing women's leadership roles in recent months. She noted that the political culture often discourages women, labeling politics as "dirty." Kabir urged a cultural shift to encourage women's participation, emphasizing the need for women to step up and transform the political landscape.

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political partiesProtect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

Labour leader Kalpana Akhtar and former anti-discrimination student movement coordinator Umama Fatima also contributed to the discussion, calling for respect for women in leadership and addressing the cyberbullying that women face in political contexts. Fatima noted that women who previously participated in mass uprisings have been increasingly marginalized.

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political partiesProtect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

In her concluding remarks, Zaima Rahman called for a broader change in societal attitudes towards women in politics. She stated, "To build a different and inclusive Bangladesh, we must learn to value and use the talents of the younger generation." This call to action underscores the necessity for political parties to not only support women but also to foster an environment conducive to their growth and leadership in Bangladeshi politics.

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political parties

• “If anything happens to a woman leader or student leader in terms of safety, then the parties will protect the woman through the legal code of conduct.” — Zaima Rahman, BNP Leader

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political parties

• “Financing is a major factor in politics. More support and facilities are needed to reduce inequality,” — Zaima Rahman, BNP Leader

Protect women, reform politics, Zaima urges political parties

• “For so long, women have been in leadership positions in various places, but in the last 18 months, I have felt anew, will all these women go back now?” — Farah Kabir, ActionAid Bangladesh

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political parties

• “Labour leader Kalpana Akhtar said, "We want whoever wins the election to be respectful of women.” — Kalpana Akhtar, Labour Leader

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political parties

• “Various political parties are now also confronting women in different ways, she said, calling upon all to take initiatives to stop the cyberbullying against women.” — Umama Fatima, Former Student Movement Coordinator

Create pathways for women in politics, Zaima Rahman asks political parties