BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday called for urgent national action to protect and empower women in the digital era, warning that Bangladesh cannot progress unless women feel safe both online and offline.
In his Facebook page, Tarique said, “Women must feel safe. Both online and offline, at home and in public, in their personal lives and in their professional journeys.”
On his 61st birthday on Thursday (20 November), Tarique shared the message and posted a photo of himself with his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and their only daughter Zaima Rahman.
He said, “It is undeniable that the digital world now shapes every part of our lives, from our daily routines to the way nations engage on the global stage. The speed at which technology has transformed both the world and Bangladesh is something none of us can ignore.”
He also said, “Sometimes my wife and I find ourselves reflecting on how different today’s world is for our daughter compared to the one we grew up in. And like many parents and concerned citizens, we feel both hope and worry. The opportunities are greater than ever, but so are the threats.”
He observed, “If Bangladesh is to move forward, our daughters, mothers, sisters, and colleagues cannot continue to live with fear.”
He also said every day, too many women face harassment, intimidation, bullying, and violence simply for speaking, working, studying, or trying to live freely.
“This is not the Bangladesh we dream of. And it is not the future our young girls deserve,” he added.
