Attacks on Women Contradict Vision of “New Bangladesh”: Chief Adviser Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the recent reports of attacks on women are “deeply concerning” and a direct contradiction to the vision of a “New Bangladesh”.

Speaking at an event marking International Women’s Day at Dhaka’s Osmani Memorial Auditorium today, Prof Yunus reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights for men and women, pledging to use “all our strength” to uphold these rights.

The chief adviser warned against regressive forces seeking to undermine women’s progress, saying, “We will not allow anti-women forces to rise again. The entire nation will stand against them.”

He also criticized societal attitudes that often blame and shame survivors instead of supporting them.

“If we are to end violence and oppression against women and build a just and discrimination-free Bangladesh, we must stand beside them – not turn away in silence,” he urged. Prof Yunus called on men to actively support the movement for gender equality.

The event honored outstanding women with the “Indomitable Women’s Award 2025” for their significant contributions across various fields.

Recognizing women’s increasing role in the country’s progress, Prof Yunus pointed to the record participation of women in the Youth Festival 2025, where 2.74 million young girls took part in 3,000 sports and cultural activities nationwide. 

The chief adviser also warned that the fallen dictatorship is attempting to create unrest in the country and urged citizens to remain as vigilant as in wartime to protect women and children.

Prof Yunus reflected on the historic struggles of Bangladeshi women, from the anti-British movement to the Liberation War, highlighting their sacrifices.

“We have forgotten many heroic women from our history, but we will never let the leadership and sacrifice of the ‘July Daughters’ fade away,” he said, referring to the women who played a crucial role in the July Uprising.

Prof Yunus also paid tribute to the women martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War and the July Uprising, acknowledging the bravery of women who stood against fascist forces despite grave dangers.

The event, chaired by Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid, was attended by government officials, diplomats, women leaders, and members of the National Women’s Cricket Team, including award recipients Sharifa Sultana, Halima Begum, Marina Besra, Lipi Begum, and Muhin Mohona.

UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis and Professor Gitiara Nasreen also spoke as special guests, while a documentary and cultural program highlighted the contributions of Bangladeshi women in national movements.