DHAKA, Oct 10, 2024 (BSS)- Speakers at a discussion here today called for ensuring political and legal accountability of the concerned parties to protect women’s right.

Ensuring such accountability is the key to finding a permanent solution to violence against women, they said.

Committee on the Prevention of Violence against Women and Children organized the discussion on the occasion of International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women here yesterday, a press release here today said.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairman Dr Kamal Uddin Ahmed was present as the chief guest on the occasion held at NHRC conference room.

Dr. Kamal Uddin Ahmed said awareness campaign on violence against women should not be limited to mere formalities.
 
“It is imperative to investigate the root causes of violence against women, particularly through the lens of societal and cultural norms,” he added.

Highlighting the economic and social exploitation facing by Dalit women, the NHRC chairman called for collective efforts to protect the rights of female workers.

He urged all sectors to collaborate to ensure women's safety and well-being in the workplace.

The meeting also discussed a comprehensive action plan to observe the International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women, spanning from November 25 to December 10.

Participants also emphasized the need for more research to prevent violence against women and recommended expediting the anti-discrimination movement to eliminate all forms of gender-based discrimination.

Kamal Uddin said, the NHRC has already submitted a draft of the Prevention and Protection of Sexual Harassment Act to the Ministry, a move that was widely applauded by attendees.

Participants expressed hope for the swift implementation of this crucial legislation.

Representatives from various national and international organizations, including UNDP, Oxfam, UNICEF, BWNLA, BRAC, Naripaksha, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Pathfinder International, and YouthNet Global took part in the discussion.

Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, underscored the need for inclusive youth participation in addressing gender-based violence.

National Human Rights Commission member Dr Tania Haque said, all should transform mindset side by side changing policies to effectively combat violence against women.