The engagement of youths aged between 16 and 30 in rape, sexual harassment, and cybercrimes in Bangladesh is increasing at an alarming rate, raising concerns about the new generation.
According to a survey, 28 per cent of rapists, 24 per cent of gang rapists, and 17 per cent of sexual harassers fall within this youth group.
Bangladesh Mahila Parishad published a report titled ‘Portrait of Violence Against Women and Girls in Bangladesh 2024’ at its central office in the capital on Tuesday.
The organization has expressed deep concern over the rising trend of youth perpetrators in rape, sexual harassment, and cybercrimes.
Fawzia Moslem, president of the organization, said, “When perpetrators and victims are young, it has a dangerous impact on society.”
“A youth who commits an act of rape often repeats the same crime. It is crucial to break the connection between perpetrators and those in power.”
She further added, “The growing misogynistic environment is increasing violence in society. Women and children are becoming marginalized groups. To overcome this, a woman-friendly culture must be cultivated, and the media should play a more active role.”
Afruza Arman, a senior training and research officer of the organization, also expressed deep concern over the increasing violence against young girls and young offenders, describing it as an extremely worrying trend.
“It is a terrifying trend that young people are becoming involved in crimes like rape and sexual violence. This presents a significant challenge for social development.”
According to the survey, 28 per cent of rapists are aged between 11 and 30, while 24 per cent of gang rapists are between the ages of 16 and 25. In addition, 17 per cent of sexual harassers are within the 16 to 30 age group. Over half of cybercrimes are committed by young people aged between 16 and 30.
The survey highlights an increasing number of victims in cases of rape, gang rape, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and cybercrimes.
Among the total reported incidents, 14 per cent are rape cases, 3 per cent are gang rapes, 3 per cent are attempted rapes, and 2 per cent are sexual harassment cases.
Over 50 per cent of cybercrimes were committed by young people aged between 16 and 30.
The findings also reveal that girls under the age of 18, particularly schoolgirls from grades 6 to 10, are the most vulnerable.
University students are more likely to be victims of sexual harassment, attempted rape, and cybercrimes. Adult women are primarily victims of domestic violence and dowry-related abuse.
An analysis of the age of the perpetrators shows incidents occurring in various locations, with 31 per cent happening at home, 24 per cent in open spaces, and schools, colleges, workplaces, and public transport also identified as risky.
While the rate of filing cases for rape is comparatively high, the number of cases filed for other forms of violence is lower. This is often due to influential individuals or families seeking “settlements” in such cases.
A positive development is the involvement of some women’s organizations and local youth who have initiated protests, human chains, and filed cases.
Moreover, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad revealed that 98 per cent of the cases filed through their initiatives have been successful, although the judicial process for each case has taken up to 25-26 years to complete.