Barrister Zaima Rahman said she has come with a different sense of emotion and responsibility, adding that she is here only to listen, learn and move forward with a spirit of working together for the country.
She made the remarks on Sunday while addressing a discussion titled Women in Nation Building: Policy, Potential and the Future of Bangladesh at the Krishibid Institution in the capital’s Khamarbari, organised by the Dhaka Forum.
Zaima Rahman, daughter of Tarique Rahman, said the speech marked her first address at the policy level in Bangladesh.
She said she does not claim to have answers to all questions or solutions to all problems, but believes everyone should have the sincerity to contribute to society and the country from their own small positions.
Referring to the diversity among participants, she said those present did not share the same ideology, experience or perspective, yet they sat together and engaged in dialogue because they were all thinking about the country and its people.
Zaima Rahman said the ability to speak together despite differences and listen to one another reflects the true beauty of democracy.
She also said Bangladesh cannot move far ahead without women’s participation in development, adding that no country can achieve sustainable progress by sidelining half of its population.
The discussion was attended by Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury as the chief guest.
Speaking at the programme, economist Fahmida Khatun said access to finance remains the biggest barrier to women’s development.
She said women entrepreneurs, particularly small-scale entrepreneurs, face multiple obstacles in securing loans and urged future governments to prioritise the issue.
Dr Fahmida Khatun added that women would face new challenges as Bangladesh graduates from the Least Developed Country category, making focused policy support essential for sustaining women’s economic empowerment.
