Bangladesh marked International Women’s Day on March 8 with a series of programs organized by government agencies, NGOs, and financial institutions. The day’s activities included award ceremonies, discussion sessions, and processions celebrating the achievements and resilience of women across the country.
As part of the celebrations, Barrister Jaimia Rahman was honored with the title “Outstanding Indomitable Woman in Advancing Democracy,” recognizing her contributions in the legacy of former and late Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs coordinated events nationwide, including rallies, discussions, and recognition programs to highlight women’s rights, equality, and social justice. Organizations such as ActionAid Bangladesh and the newspaper Prothom Alo collaborated to organize special programs, while all scheduled banks under the guidance of Bangladesh Bank celebrated the day with appropriate ceremonies.
This year, the global campaign theme “Give to Gain” emphasizes mutual cooperation between men and women to establish gender equality. The events aim to recognize women’s contributions to society and advance their rights at all levels. Local administrations coordinated with the Ministry of Women Affairs to implement district- and sub-district-level programs.
Both President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended separate messages, wishing all women worldwide on the occasion. In his message, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of ensuring women’s rights, education, health, safety, and participation for sustainable national development. He noted that women make up nearly half of the world’s population, and that development is impossible without their political and economic empowerment.
Bangladesh has a long history of institutional support for women. Under the leadership of Shahid President Ziaur Rahman, the Women’s Affairs Bureau was established in 1976, which later became the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs in 1994 during Begum Khaleda Zia’s tenure. The government has continued initiatives such as providing free education for girls up to grade twelve and economic empowerment programs like the “Family Card.”
Events at the National Press Club included discussion sessions, award ceremonies, and candlelight programs, with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid attending as the chief guest. The Dhaka Reporters’ Unity also held rallies and events nationwide.
International Women’s Day is globally recognized, with the United Nations observing it since 1975. Its origins trace back to labor movements in 1857, when women textile workers protested against wage discrimination and harsh working conditions in New York. In 1910, at the second International Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, German socialist leader Clara Zetkin proposed that March 8 be celebrated annually as International Women’s Day to recognize women’s rights and achievements. The observance spread internationally, and Bangladesh began celebrating the day even before its independence in 1971.
Each year, the day is marked with a specific theme to highlight the ongoing struggle for gender equality, women’s empowerment, and recognition of their contributions to society.
