Civil society groups launched the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign in Bangladesh today, with a key demand for the government to significantly increase funding to prevent violence against women.
The campaign inauguration was held at the Nari Unnayan Shakti (NUS) Training Center in Banasree, organised by NUS with support from the Bangladesh Shishu Adhikar Forum (BSAF), Forum for Culture and Human Development (FCHD), and Young Women for Development Rights & Climate (YWDRC). The international campaign will run from 25 November to 10 December, according to a press release.
Dr Afroja Parvin, executive director of NUS, called for a unified response in her keynote address, stating that violence against women is a social problem requiring immediate action. She emphasised the urgent need for the Government of Bangladesh to double the national budget allocated for preventing violence against women, said in the press release.
Other leaders outlined multifaceted approaches to the issue. Chairperson of FCHD Shahida Wahab stressed the necessity of cultural transformation through awareness, education, and women’s empowerment. Dr Sultan Mohammad Razzak of BSAF highlighted the long-term societal impacts of violence against adolescent girls and the interconnectedness of women’s and children’s rights.
Representing YWDRC, officer Selina Khatun linked the prevention of violence to broader social and climate crises, calling for greater youth involvement and climate-sensitive policies.
The event concluded with participants collectively pledging to work toward a violence-free society, followed by a discussion session with attendees from various sectors. Over the next 16 days, NUS and its partner organisations will conduct awareness activities and campaigns in the Khilgaon area.
