State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called on the United Nations to step up humanitarian support and ensure stronger participation of women in peacebuilding, as global crises deepen and humanitarian needs rise.
She was speaking at the 2026 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Humanitarian Affairs Segment in New York on Wednesday, BSS reports.
She reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to humanitarian principles and outlined national efforts under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership to expand social protection, boost disaster preparedness, empower women and assist vulnerable groups.
At the UN Security Council’s Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), Shama stressed the indispensable role of women in sustaining peace and reconciliation. She praised Bangladeshi women peacekeepers serving in UN missions worldwide, noting their contributions to stability in conflict zones.
The state minister voiced concern over the plight of women and children caught in conflicts across regions and urged closing humanitarian financing gaps to guarantee adequate aid.
She also pressed for continued international support to ensure the safe, voluntary and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
Her UN schedule includes participation in High‑Level Panel Discussion‑2 of the ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment on Thursday. She will also lead Bangladesh’s delegation in a bilateral meeting with Sima Bahous, UN Under‑Secretary‑General and Executive Director of UN Women, at UN Headquarters.
