POWER IN PEOPLE
Two words - but they put together so much! We are talking thousands of children making friends with equal number of sponsors, while ActionAid and partners make the bridge. Together is a key word in this connection, this friendship. Joining hands brings magic.
Women's Rights and Gender Equity
Every woman has the right to live free from violence, discrimination, and fear. We work to ensure safety, voice, and economic freedom for women and girls across Bangladesh.
Take a Tour
Resilience and Climate Justice
Floods, cyclones, and climate shocks destroy lives. We help communities prepare, respond, and rebuild - with dignity and long-term resilience.
Take a Tour
Youth and Just Society
Young people are not just the future - they are powerful agents of change today. We empower youth to lead, advocate, and build a just society.
Take a Tour
Child Sponsorship and Child Rights Programme
Thousands of children making friends with sponsors, while ActionAid and partners make the bridge. Together is a key word in this connection, this friendship. Joining hands brings magic.
Take a Tour
Rohingya Response Programme
Our Rohingya Response Programme supports communities affected by displacement. We provide emergency relief, livelihood support, and long-term resilience-building programs.
Take a Tour
Csp Vi
Read the reportImpact In Numbers
10,76,958
Total Reach
17,960
Reproductive Health Related Service
12,695
Women Engaged in Diverse Livelihoods Options
476,039
Children Reached
38.0M
Digital media Outreach
101,090
Rohingya Response
Stories Of Change
Impact Stories
From Struggle to Strength: Sayed Hossain’s Journey of Change
When Sayed Hossain fled violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State in August 2017, he arrived in Bangladesh with nothing but hope for survival. He and his family settled in Camp-24 of the Rohingya refugee settlement in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, where life was harsh and uncertain. “Everything was uncertain for my family,” Sayed recalled. Their shelter was cramped and unhygienic, with inadequate water and sanitation facilities and no waste management, making daily life a struggle for basic needs. Beyond these hardships, the camp faced severe environmental challenges. The Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf peninsula, home to some of Bangladesh’s most important forests, had lost over 3,200 hectares of land due to the influx of refugees. This deforestation caused soil erosion, unstable slopes, and a greater risk of landslides and flash floods, creating an urgent need to restore greenery and protect biodiversity. Determined to change his situation, Sayed Hossain joined Natural Resource Management (NRM) activities, supported by ActionAid Bangladesh as a cooperating partner of the World Food Programme (WFP). Through Reforestation Care and Maintenance (RCM), he began planting and nurturing trees in Camp-24, his living area, work that not only restored degraded land but also strengthened ecological resilience. These efforts form part of a broader mission: “Strengthening natural resource management for creating resilient communities, supporting livelihoods, and promoting environmental sustainability.” For Sayed, this opportunity was transformative. He now works with dignity, earns a stable income, and actively contributes to environmental restoration. The Cash-for-Work approach has provided financial security for his family. “We may have lost our country, but not our hope. Real change starts from us,” he said with determination. His participation in training sessions has improved his knowledge and confidence, turning him into a community motivator who inspires others to keep their surroundings clean and safe. “I feel proud that I can help my community and make a difference,” Sayed shared. Today, Sayed stands as an example of resilience and leadership. From a life of fear and dependency, he has become a confident, responsible individual who supports both his family and his community. His story reflects the power of integrated approaches, combining livelihood support with ecological restoration, to create lasting impact. Through NRM, individuals like Sayed are not only rebuilding their lives but also safeguarding critical ecosystems for future generations.
Read More
Impact Stories
From Struggle to Stability: Arefa’s Journey to Self-Reliance
Since the onset of the Rohingya crisis, thousands of displaced families have been living in overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar, struggling to meet basic needs. Among them is Arefa Begum, a 25-year-old mother of two, residing in Camp 27. Her family’s situation worsened when her husband, once a day labourer, became permanently disabled after an accident. With no steady income, Arefa faced severe hardship. She juggled her children’s education, medical expenses, and rent, but survival became increasingly difficult. “I could not pay rent or buy food. Every day felt like a battle,” she recalls. As the sole caregiver and unskilled worker, she had no means to earn, leaving her family vulnerable to food insecurity and debt. The situation changed when ActionAid Bangladesh, as a cooperating partner of the World Food Programme (WFP), introduced the Natural Resource Management (NRM) project in the Rohingya camps. The initiative aimed to restore the environment while creating livelihood opportunities for vulnerable groups, especially women. Through cash-for-work activities and hands-on training in nature-based solutions and environmental management, participants could earn and learn simultaneously. Arefa was selected as an unskilled participant and placed in supervised teams. Within three months, she gained practical skills and began earning a regular income. This steady income allowed her to buy medication, pay rent, afford her children’s schooling, and cover household essentials without hardship. She is confident now. “My work has given me dignity and hope. I no longer struggle to provide for my family,” she says with pride. Today, Arefa is recognised in her community as a resilient mother who overcame adversity. Her contribution not only supports her family but also helps maintain environmental balance in the camp. Her journey from dependency to self-reliance demonstrates the transformative power of livelihood interventions. Arefa’s story reflects the success of the NRM Project in empowering women and promoting sustainable development. By combining environmental restoration with income generation, the project has broken cycles of poverty and despair, giving displaced families a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.
Read More
Impact Stories
From Despair to Confidence – The Story of Mohammed Ismail
Mohammed Ismail, a resident of Camp-25, was born with a physical disability that prevents him from walking. Throughout his life, he faced relentless challenges. His condition led to repeated rejection from jobs, social exclusion, and often being treated with pity or ignored altogether. Struggling with money and feeling rejected by society made each day difficult, slowly breaking down his confidence and self-worth. Mohammed Ismail often felt ignored. “I truly believed no one would ever give me a chance to work, to contribute,” he once reflected. “My disability felt like an undefeatable wall, blocking every path.” However, in 2025, Mohammed Ismail’s life took a positive turn when he was offered a role in the NRM project’s Drainage Cleaning Activity (DCA). Although his mobility was limited, which had previously kept him out of many traditional workplaces, the project created tailored roles and fostered a supportive environment. His peers welcomed him, helping him gradually overcome the barriers he had long faced. Through this meaningful work, Ismail not only found a way to support his family financially but also began to rebuild his shattered confidence. Becoming an earning member of his family filled him with pride and a renewed sense of purpose The Natural Resource Management (NRM) project, implemented by ActionAid as a cooperating partner of the WFP, has become a beacon of hope for thousands of displaced individuals. Designed to strengthen natural resource management, the initiative promotes resilient communities, supports sustainable livelihoods, and champions environmental sustainability. A key focus of the project is the inclusion of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. Through activities like the Drainage Cleaning Activity (DCA), the project not only encourages community engagement but also creates vital income-generating opportunities, reflecting a truly inclusive and empowering approach. As a direct result of this opportunity, Mohammed Ismail now earns a steady income, providing essential support for his family. His self-esteem has soared, and he has gained newfound respect within his community. Through his dedicated work, Ismail has rediscovered purpose, fully regained his confidence, and is experiencing a profound and positive transformation in his life. “When I first started working at DCA, I couldn’t believe that I could support my family on my own,” Ismail shares with a proud smile. “Now I am not only earning, but can also proudly say—I can. This confidence is the biggest achievement of my life.” Ismail’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the impact of inclusive opportunities. His transformation has inspired others with disabilities in the camp to take part in similar activities, creating a ripple effect of hope and inclusion. Mohammed Ismail stands as living proof that with dignity and opportunity, every individual can contribute and thrive.
Read More
Impact Stories
From Struggle to Strength: Salema Khatun’s Journey of Hope
Salema Khatun, a resilient mother of four, lives in Camp-26 in Teknaf, home to the world’s largest Rohingya refugee settlement. After losing her husband, she became the sole provider for her family, facing immense hardship. Her days were spent running a small floating shop across the camp, but the income was never enough to meet even the basic needs of her children—food, education, and healthcare remained out of reach. “I used to worry every day about how to feed my children. I worked hard, but it was never enough,” Salema shared. Her life began to change when she was selected to join the Natural Resource Management (NRM) project, implemented by ActionAid Bangladesh. The Natural Resource Management (NRM) project, implemented by ActionAid as a cooperating partner of the World Food Programme (WFP), has become a beacon of hope for thousands of displaced individuals. Designed to strengthen natural resource management, the initiative promotes resilient communities, supports sustainable livelihoods, and champions environmental sustainability. Through the project’s Nature-based Solutions (NbS) scheme, Salema received training and support to engage in sustainable resource management activities. Though she started without any formal skills, her determination and work ethic quickly made her a valued participant. The project gave her more than just an income; it gave her confidence, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose. With her earnings, Salema can now provide food, education, and other essentials for her children, offering them a more secure and hopeful future. “Thanks to ActionAid Bangladesh, I’ve gained skills and can now support my family. I want to keep working and help others like me,” she said proudly. Salema’s transformation is a powerful example of how targeted support and sustainable livelihood opportunities can uplift vulnerable women. Through the NRM project, she broke the cycle of poverty and became a role model in her community. Her story is a testament to the impact of empowering women through nature-based solutions—proving that with the right support, resilience can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances.
Read MoreCampaigns And Events
Event
International Women's Day 2026
International Women’s Day 2026 is observed under the global theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting the transformative power of reciprocity, solidarity, and collective support in advancing women’s rights and leadership. The theme underscores that investing in women’s empowerment through recognition, inclusion, and shared responsibility strengthens societies and fosters a more just and interconnected world. In this context, and following the 13th National Parliament Election of Bangladesh, ActionAid Bangladesh (AAB) plans to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 by centring women’s political participation, representation, and leadership. The celebration will focus on celebrating women who entered politics, understanding the challenges they faced, and capturing the learning from their journeys to inspire future women leaders. Globally and in Bangladesh, women in politics continue to face discrimination, violence, tokenism, and exclusion from decision-making processes. Yet women persist, navigating resistance, developing learning and strategies through experience, and paving the way for other women to follow. International Women’s Day 2026 serves as a critical moment to amplify this collective resilience and determination. No matter how entrenched sexism may be or how discouraging political environments become, women refuse to retreat. Instead, they rise together, claiming their mandate and advocating for the rights and empowerment of all women and girls. Available secondary data from media reports and election analyses suggest that women’s participation as candidates in Bangladesh’s national parliamentary elections has historically remained low, though a gradual increase is visible over time. In the early national elections following independence, the number of female candidates contesting general seats was minimal and not systematically documented. More consistent data become available from the 1990s onwards. During the 5th and 6th National Parliament Elections in the 1990s, the number of female candidates reportedly remained below 40. In the 7th and 8th National Parliament Elections (2001 and 2008), the number showed a modest rise, fluctuating roughly between 40 and 50 candidates. A decline was observed in the 9th National Parliament Election (2014), when fewer than 30 women reportedly contested general seats. The 10th and 11th National Parliament Elections marked a gradual increase again, with approximately 60–70 female candidates in 2018 and close to 90–100 candidates in the subsequent election cycle. For the upcoming 13th National Parliament Election, media reports indicate that around 109 women have filed nomination papers, suggesting a potential increase compared to previous elections. However, even with this increase, women are expected to constitute only around 4-5 percent of the total candidates, highlighting the persistent under-representation of women in Bangladesh’s electoral politics despite numerical growth over time. Against this backdrop, AAB will organise an event to celebrate women who have entered politics, document the challenges they faced and the learning gained from their journeys, and translate these experiences into inspiration and guidance for future women leaders. Objectives The objective of the event is to recognise and celebrate women political leaders and activists who have challenged patriarchy and social stigma, while reinforcing the importance of women’s leadership in fostering inclusive, democratic, and accountable governance. It also seeks to highlight the challenges, learning, and leadership journeys of women who participated in the 13th National Parliament Election and to use their shared experiences to inspire and encourage other women and girls to engage in politics in the future, in line with the “Give to Gain” ethos. Programme Focus The discussion sessions aim to both celebrate women’s participation in electoral politics and critically explore the historical legacy and current state of women’s engagement in political leadership and national policymaking processes. The session will examine the structural, social, and political factors that continue to constrain women’s political empowerment, while also highlighting enabling conditions, strategies, and success stories that have supported women’s political journeys despite persistent gender inequalities. Importantly, the discussions will create a dedicated platform for women candidates to share their lived experiences, challenges, learning, and aspirations, with the objective of inspiring future women leaders and strengthening collective advocacy for inclusive political participation. The event will include the screening of a series of short audio-visual contents that capture the journeys, experiences, and reflections of women engaged in politics and public leadership. Participants Female MP Nominees of the 13th National Parliament Election, government bodies (MOWCA, policymakers, local government representatives), INGOs, development partners, embassies, civil society organizations (CSOs): Women's rights groups, youth organizations, community leaders; media partners (digital platforms, newspapers, influencers), private sectors and community members.
Read More
Event
11th International Water Conference 2026
Theme: Reimagining Water Governance for Just and Sustainable Futures The 11th International Water Conference took place virtually on January 21 and 22, 2026. This annual event, organised by ActionAid Bangladesh since 2016, served as a vital platform for connecting local realities with global ideas. It reaffirmed that water is not a mere commodity but a fundamental human right. By bringing together a diverse blend of researchers, academics, and international experts, the conference aimed to transition from cultural reflection to action-orientated policy and governance. The proceedings addressed the deepening vulnerabilities of communities dependent on water resources amidst intensifying climate change. Ultimately, the gathering highlighted the core question of justice in ensuring a resilient and shared water future. Under 4 thematic sessions consisting of 15 presentations and discussions by 10 eminent discussants across the world, the gathering moved from concern to commitment by combining community knowledge with science to ensure resilient and sustainable water futures. Day 1: 21 January 2026, Wednesday ⚖️Thematic Session 1: Water Justice and Governance 🚰Thematic Session 2: Urban Water Systems and Water Futures On the first day of the 11th International Water Conference 2026, Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed unpacked this year’s theme, introducing four Ps (Pollution, Power, Politics and Profit) and how they overlapped with water management and water governance. The many tangled dimensions of water were laid out through his reflections, which were further enriched by insights from our Country Director Farah Kabir, Dr. Nguyen Hong Quan (Quan), Dr. Champa M. Navaratne, Sakib Mahmud, Md. Abul Kalam Azad, Tamazer Ahmed, Muntaha Kadir, Khandaker Ruhama Amin, Dr. Emma Porio, and Anika N Haque. Watch the discussion here: Day 2: 22 January 2026, Thursday 🌍 Thematic Session 3: Climate Crisis and Innovation for Water Justice 🌐 Thematic Session 4: Transboundary Water Accountability and Regional Cooperation Beginning with the welcome speech by our Country Director Farah Kabir, Day 2 primarily covered presentations on Innovations for Water Justice, Marine Water Sustainability, Community Driven Water Cleanup, and Sustainable Engagement. The later session featured topics such as Transboundary River Management between Bangladesh and India, and Riverbank Erosion Dynamics in the Teesta Basin. Moderated by Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, Executive Director, Centre for Alternatives, and Dr. Haseeb Md. Irfanullah, Visiting Research Fellow, Center for Sustainable Development, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), the sessions were enriched by the presence of Dr. Mansee Bal Bhargava, Erad Kawsar, Afia Adiba Hafsa, Mir Munes Ifty, Fayyaz Baqir, Dipak Gyawali, Muhibul Hasan Arnob, Emran Hossain, Dr. Jayanta Basu, Mohammad Abu Sayed, Dr. Zhang Jin, Remy Kinna, Dr. John Dore and Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed. Watch the discussion here: After the insightful sessions, we came to stand together in one understanding. By integrating policy dialogue, cultural reflection and innovative learning, the conference aimed to inspire a paradigm shift: from managing water as a commodity to governing it as a shared right and collective responsibility.The conference concluded with the promise to sit again next year. Till then, our advocacy to establish the reimagined water governance may bring visible success and tangible outcomes on the ground and beyond the seas.
Read More
Event
Child Rights Week 2025: Patuakhali Celebrations
Children from every part of our country deserve to be heard, acknowledged, and empowered to raise their voices while recognising their own rights. That’s what drives us to celebrate Child Rights Week 2025 with full action! The goal is simple: help children learn about their rights, speak up with confidence, and engage with their communities. To mark the week, ActionAid Bangladesh, in collaboration with AVAS, organised a series of joyful events for children in Kalapara, Patuakhali, on 9 and 23 October. One of the highlights was a children’s talk show titled “Listen to Children, Work for Children”. There, child representatives sat face to face with local government officials, teachers, and invited guests. They asked thoughtful questions about education, health, safety, climate change, and child protection, and shared what they hope for in a safer and better tomorrow. The celebrations also featured rallies, debate competitions, discussion sessions, sports and cultural activities, followed by a prize-giving ceremony. ActionAid Bangladesh continues to work tirelessly to build a safe and just society for every child, whether in cities or remote communities. As part of this commitment, we ensured that children from local communities could also benefit from Child Rights Week and grow more aware of the rights they hold.
Read MoreUpcoming Events
Ongoing Events
Feminist Green Action Award 2026
The Feminist Green Action Award was launched in 2025 to promote a green transition in industry and the broader economy that is feminist, inclusive, and gender transformative. This initiative recognises the importance of addressing climate change while challenging structural inequalities, particularly gender-based barriers, within environmental and economic systems. The award aims to highlight and celebrate initiatives that integrate sustainability with feminist principles, ensuring that the transition to a green economy is both environmentally sustainable and socially just. As a champion of climate justice and gender equality, ActionAid Bangladesh promotes green transition approaches that center on the leadership and participation of women, youth, and marginalised groups. The organisation believes that Feminist Green Action is a key pathway to achieving a just and inclusive transition, where environmental sustainability and gender justice go hand in hand. Following the successful launch, ActionAid Bangladesh will organise the Feminist Green Action Award for the second consecutive year in 2026. By recognising and showcasing inspiring initiatives and changemakers, the award aims to encourage wider adoption of gender-responsive and sustainable practices, contributing to a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future for Bangladesh. About the Award Enterprises (SMEs) that demonstrate leadership in adopting feminist green actions across their operations. The award encourages businesses to include feminist and gender-focused methods in their operations, production, and supply chains, making sure they work towards both environmental sustainability and gender equality. By highlighting such initiatives, the award promotes responsible business practices that empower women, support inclusive workplaces, and contribute to climate-resilient and sustainable economic growth. With Bangladesh already recognized as a global leader in green garment production, this award seeks to further encourage industries and enterprises to adopt sustainable and gender-responsive practices. It aims to inspire businesses to go beyond environmental compliance and embrace feminist principles that ensure equity, participation, and fair opportunities for all. Through recognition and visibility, the Feminist Green Action Award contributes to advancing a more inclusive, just, and sustainable future, while strengthening Bangladesh’s leadership in green and ethical production. ActionAid Bangladesh’s Engagement to green innovation ActionAid Bangladesh engages with young people and women to support green innovation through capacity development, seed funding, boot camps, and mentoring. Over the period, ActionAid Bangladesh has organized several cohorts of youth green entrepreneurs to accelerate the development of their business ideas. The Feminist Green Action Award provides an opportunity for these youth green entrepreneurs to transform their business ideas through a feminist lens, integrating gender equity, environmental sustainability, and social impact. What is green feminist transition Green Feminist Transition refers to a transformative approach that draws inspiration from the idea of Mother Nature and emphasizes the coexistence of economic activities with ecological preservation. The concept promotes responsible use of natural resources and advocates moving away from extractive practices toward a greener, sustainable economy. It integrates environmental sustainability with human rights, gender equity, and inclusive practices, ensuring that development supports both people and the planet. Eligibility and Future Engagement The Feminist Green Action Award recognizes SMEs and private sector businesses of all sizes. In addition, a special category is reserved for participants from ActionAid Bangladesh’s youth-led green business development cohorts. For this year, the award will be delivered in the following three categories: • Corporate Category: 1 awardee • SME Category: 1 awardee • ActionAid Bangladesh Cohort on Green Business: 2 potential youth green entrepreneurs For future engagement, the selected business entities will receive ongoing business development support, including mentorship and guidance from experienced business professionals to strengthen and scale their green initiatives. Award Objectives 1. Recognise and celebrate private sector entities, including youth entrepreneurs, that are demonstrating leadership and innovation in advancing the green transition within their operations and business models. 2. Encourage and motivate businesses to adopt environmentally sustainable policies, processes, and production practices, with a strong emphasis on gender equity, inclusion, and feminist principles. 3. Showcase and promote best practices from the corporate sector through a feminist green transition lens, fostering learning, replication, and wider adoption of sustainable and gender-responsive business approaches. Selection Criteria The business entities and SMEs participating in the award programme will be evaluated and finally selected based on the following criteria: A. Sustainable and gender responsive operations, production, and supply chains, ensuring environmentally responsible practices are integrated across all stages of business activities. B. Environmentally friendly and climate-resilient infrastructure, demonstrating commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting long-term sustainability. C. Innovation that advances sustainability and gender responsiveness, including initiatives that integrate feminist principles, promote inclusion, and address gender disparities. D. Commitment to creating green jobs and building green skills, contributing to decent work opportunities and supporting a just transition for workers and communities. Selection process The nominees will be evaluated by a jury board, composed of experts, sector specialists, and practitioners, who will carefully review all submissions and select the final winners. Award Ceremony The final award ceremony will be held on 24 June 2026.
Media Coverage
Media Coverage
Children present six-point manifesto to government and political parties
Ahead of the upcoming national elections, over 200 children have issued a six-point manifesto urging the Government, political parties, and policymakers to prioritise child rights and protection in their commitments, policies, and programmes. The manifesto calls for quality education, healthcare, inclusion of children's voices, cyber safety, climate justice, and a safe environment for all children. It also demands stricter enforcement of laws to end child marriage, child labour, and violence against children. The document was unveiled at a special event organised by ActionAid Bangladesh at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, as part of Children's Rights Week 2025. The theme for this year was "Empowering Children, Ending Child Marriage – Ensuring Safe Childhoods in the Digital World." A panel discussion moderated by Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, academics, and child rights experts. Speakers emphasised that children's protection and development require collective responsibility from the State, civil society, and families. Farah Kabir said, "Policies concerning children directly affect their lives. Listening to them and including their perspectives in decision-making is not only their right but also essential for effective policymaking. In the digital era, we must ensure both safety and opportunity for children. If we fail to protect them, the integrity of our development will be questioned." Child representative Tamanna said, "We want compulsory education on sexual and reproductive health and rights in every school. To end child marriage and ensure cyber safety, laws must not only exist but also be enforced." Shabnam Mustari, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, called for stronger collaboration to prevent online harassment and integrate digital literacy into the national curriculum. Dilara Begum, Director General (Additional Secretary), Bangladesh Shishu Academy, stressed promoting responsible parenting and empowering children to express their views at the policy level. Natalie McCauley, Chief of Child Protection, UNICEF Bangladesh, said a permanent child-focused division under the Ministry could address systemic gaps. Mohammad Emdad-ul-Bari, Chairman of BTRC, and Md Elius Ziku, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, highlighted the need for cyber-safe platforms and parental awareness. The event also featured a symbolic Children's Parliament, cultural performances, and participation from 80 child journalists nationwide. Source:
Read More
Media Coverage
Actionaid launches 16 days of activism for safe cities
ActionAid Bangladesh has launched its 16 Days of Activism campaign, calling for safer cities for women and girls. As part of the global observance, a day-long programme was organised today, Wednesday, at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka under the theme "Safe City, Fearless Women". The programme opened with a live outdoor performance and an installation series entitled "Stories of Courage" in the academy's open courtyard, highlighting women's stories of resilience. This was followed by an indoor theatrical production, "Echoes of Her Life", staged at the Chitrashala Auditorium. The play portrayed real-life experiences of harassment and insecurity faced by women in public transport, public spaces, and service institutions, leaving a strong emotional impact on the audience. Marium Neesa, Lead of the Women's Rights and Gender Equity Team at ActionAid Bangladesh, presented the situation of women's safety in both online and offline spaces in the city. During an interactive discussion between the performances, speakers called for strict enforcement of laws, gender-sensitive urban planning, and improvements in social values to reduce violence against women. They emphasised the need to challenge patriarchal mindsets and integrate awareness into the education curriculum as part of preventive measures. Speakers also reaffirmed commitments to creating women-friendly public spaces and public transport, stressing that swift legal action is essential in responding to complaints of harassment. Referring to findings from ActionAid Bangladesh's Safe City Campaign research, Country Director, Farah Kabir, said: "Our research shows that in 2021 and 2022, online violence against women stood at 63 per cent. As a result, 42 per cent of women reduced their online presence. In addition, 63 per cent of women move outside with fear or anxiety, and 22 per cent face harassment in public transport. These findings prove that women are not fully safe in either online or offline spaces." She added: "Violence continues because of tolerance and lack of accountability," urging all, regardless of gender, to work together against violence. Professor Tania Haque of the University of Dhaka identified cultural violence and its social acceptance as key factors behind rising incidents. She said urban communities must not remain silent witnesses and must raise their voices against harassment. Dr Prakash Kanti Chowdhury, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, said: "Violence will not decrease unless men and boys are engaged as allies through positive transformation. Government and civil society must prioritise preventive action." S M Shafiqur Rahman, Chief Urban Planner of Dhaka North City Corporation, reaffirmed the commitment to gender-sensitive planning to ensure women's safety in urban design. Deputy Police Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Mosammat Farhana Yasmin, urged citizens to report incidents promptly, saying long-term state-level planning, increased recruitment of women police officers, and specialised training are essential to provide effective support for survivors. Speaking at the discussion, Sharmin Islam, Gender Team Lead at UNDP, urged the government to strengthen CCTV surveillance in public spaces and increase gender budgeting. "Violence is rising because of a culture of impunity, so incorporating gender sensitivity into the mainstream curriculum is crucial as a preventive measure," she said. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by filmmaker Fakhrul Arefeen Khan; Jasmine Ara, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs; government policymakers, urban planners, civil society representatives, and other distinguished guests. The 16-day campaign is part of ActionAid Bangladesh's Safe City Campaign. From 25 November to 10 December, various local-level initiatives will be undertaken across cities to help build a sustained movement against violence. Source:
Read More
Media Coverage
Women sidelined in national politics
Experts regret 4% candidates were female. Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, ActionAid Bangladesh and Prothom Alo jointly organised an event at a city hotel on March 5. At the programme, women who contested the February 12 election shared their experiences. Experts and politicians have raised alarm over the fact that women made up only around four percent of the candidates in the 13th national election. Referring to the seven women who were elected as members of parliament, they said overcoming obstacles to participating and winning in the polls carries special significance for women in politics. To ensure women’s participation in politics and policymaking, coordinated initiatives must be taken, they added. Speakers made these remarks at a dialogue and award ceremony titled “Ensuring Women’s Leadership and Protection in Politics”. “If women are vital as voters, why is their leadership always questioned?” asked Rasheda K Chowdhury, executive director, Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE). “We are yet to accord women the dignity they deserve. Our nation was founded on equality, yet women are being sidelined,” she added. Rumeen Farhana, who won as an independent candidate from Brahmanbaria‑2, delivered a scathing critique of societal double standards. “We are ready to see strong women as daughters or sisters, but not as partners in change,” she said, calling for an end to the “good girl” stereotype that stifles political ambition. Supporting this, Nayab Yusuf Ahmed, the BNP candidate who won from Faridpur‑3, highlighted how marginalised women are denied basic rights, with their vulnerabilities “exploited to confine them within the home”. Tasnim Jara, who contested independently from Dhaka-9, exposed the political machinery that treats women as tokens, not decision-makers. She noted that while women drive grassroots campaigning, “male-dominated structures” systematically block them during the nomination stage. She also critiqued the reserved seat system, arguing it renders women “more accountable to party leadership than to voters.” Leader of the Socialist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist) Sima Dutta said that women are often treated as third-class citizens across sectors, from agriculture to garments. She called for equal pay, legal recognition of women in the informal sector and stronger government action against discriminatory attitudes. The dialogue also highlighted a chilling rise in violence against women. Morium Nessa, Lead for Women’s Rights at ActionAid, presented data showing a 52.3 percent increase in reported rape cases in 2025 compared to 2024. In January 2026 alone, 272 cases of violence against women and girls were reported. Furthermore, the dialogue revealed a massive institutional failure: 39 percent of the country’s universities still lack sexual harassment prevention committees. ActionAid Country Director Farah Kabir hailed the candidates as the “bravest citizens” for navigating hostile conditions. “We do not seek only an increase in numbers. We seek meaningful change. Ensuring women’s safety and dignity remains the greatest challenge,” she said. Meanwhile, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman admitted that civil society and the media could have offered stronger support to independent women candidates. Expressing optimism that women’s participation and visible presence in the next election will increase significantly, he said, “If we all work together in the days ahead, we can play a more effective role in strengthening women’s leadership.” The session concluded with a call for stricter enforcement of laws against gender-based violence, robust cyber-safety measures, and a genuine shift in party cultures to move beyond “lip service” to equality. A highlight of the event was an interactive forum theatre performance titled “Chena Porobash” presented by theatre group Palakar. Through drama, the performance illustrated child marriage, workplace harassment and the challenges faced by women candidates during elections. Among those present were the British High Commission’s Social Development Adviser Tahera Jabeen, Sharmin Islam, Gender Team Leader at the United Nations Development Programme Bangladesh, Korvi Rakshand, founder of JAAGO Foundation, and Sadaf Saaz of the National Political Rights Forum. Women candidates present included Meghna Alam of Ganodhikar Parishad, Taslima Akter of Ganosamhati Andolon, independent candidate Anwara Islam Rani, Barrister Nasrin Sultana Mili of AB Party, and Arifa Akter Baby of the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal. Source:
Read More
Media Coverage
A just energy transition won’t happen without fixing climate finance
Bangladesh stands at an energy crossroads. Nearly 97% of its energy mix depends on fossil fuels, around 70% of which is imported. In a world shaped by geopolitical instability – from war in West Asia to global price shocks – this dependence is no longer merely an energy issue. It is a question of economic security, sovereignty and survival. Recent volatility in the liquefied natural gas market has made this painfully clear. Supply disruptions and price spikes are not abstract risks; they translate directly into fiscal pressure, energy shortages and difficult national trade-offs. But the deeper crisis is not only about reliance on fossil fuels. It is also about dependence on a global financial system that continues to make a just transition harder, not easier. For countries such as Bangladesh, the barrier is not ambition. It is fiscal constraint and unequal access to finance. We are being asked to transition rapidly while managing rising debt, volatile energy markets and shrinking fiscal space. Climate finance intended to support transformation too often arrives in the form of loans, deepening the very vulnerabilities it is supposed to address. As many in the Global South have long argued, responsibility is global, but constraints are national. The problem is not only the scale of finance. It is also its structure. Mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund and the Loss and Damage Fund are evolving, but they still operate within systems shaped by entrenched power and, too often, patriarchal norms. In practice, finance continues to favour large, centralised infrastructure projects, often backed by multilateral lenders and corporate actors. These projects can displace communities, erode local livelihoods and concentrate control over energy systems. Meanwhile, decentralised, community-led renewable solutions – many driven by women and local entrepreneurs – remain marginal and underfunded. The imbalance is stark. Less than 1% of global philanthropic funding supports gender and environmental justice together, while only about 4% of climate-related aid treats gender equality as a core objective. Gender justice, in other words, remains an afterthought. The consequences are not abstract. Women in Bangladesh and across the Global South carry a double burden: they are more exposed to displacement, environmental degradation and climate shocks, while also absorbing the costs through unpaid care work, resource collection and lost income. During climate disasters, these pressures intensify, often alongside heightened risks of gender-based violence. A transition that ignores these realities is not only incomplete. It is unjust. If we are serious about a just energy transition, incremental reform will not be enough. Bangladesh must also begin a serious national conversation about energy sufficiency, not only energy efficiency. First, debt must be addressed directly. Bangladesh and many other low- and middle-income countries are trying to navigate the transition under severe fiscal constraints, now worsened by volatile fossil fuel markets. Debt cancellation and restructuring are not radical demands. They are necessary to unlock investment in renewable energy, social protection and resilience. Climate finance must also be new and additional, not recycled development aid, and it should be delivered primarily through grants rather than loans. Second, accountability must replace voluntary pledges. There is no binding mechanism to hold international actors accountable for continuing to finance fossil fuel expansion, including LNG infrastructure, while simultaneously urging developing countries to decarbonise. Proposals such as a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty point to a possible way forward. By aligning finance with climate goals and setting clear rules for phasing out fossil fuels, such a framework could begin to correct the imbalance between responsibility and capacity. Without accountability, cooperation risks remaining rhetorical. Third, climate finance must be redesigned, not merely expanded. A feminist approach would shift investment towards decentralised, community-led energy systems, support women and young people as entrepreneurs, and recognise the unpaid labour that sustains households and economies. This is not about adding a gender lens after the fact. It is about changing who controls resources and who benefits. Fourth, practical financial instruments must support this shift. Debt-for-climate swaps can reduce fiscal pressure while linking relief to renewable investment. Blended finance and public guarantees can de-risk small-scale energy projects and attract private capital. Regional cooperation can strengthen local value chains and reduce dependence on volatile global fuel markets. At the same time, fairer trade and investment frameworks are needed to support technology transfer and ensure that developing countries are not locked out of renewable supply chains. Finally, transition must be linked to livelihoods and Loss and Damage. Bangladesh is already living with the impacts of climate change – from floods to cyclones – that disrupt communities and economies. Without adequate Loss and Damage finance, countries are forced to balance recovery with transition, often at significant social cost. A just transition must include investment in reskilling, social protection and alternative livelihoods so that workers and communities are not left behind. A just energy transition is not only about replacing fossil fuels with renewables. It is about reshaping power – economic, political and social – and reclaiming energy sovereignty in an increasingly unstable world. It requires a shift from debt to justice, from exclusion to participation, and from voluntary commitments to binding accountability. For Bangladesh, that means prioritising decentralised renewable energy, supporting women-led enterprises and reducing exposure to volatile fossil fuel imports. For the international community, it means recognising that climate action cannot succeed within systems that reproduce inequality. Without structural change, we are not financing a just transition. We are financing its delay. Author: Farah Kabir, Country Director, AAB Source:
Read MoreSocial Media
YouTube
Facebook