By Rita Bhowmick (Dhaka Bureau)
The core theme of International Women’s Day 2026 was Rights, Justice, and Action.’ In alignment with this goal, a vibrant dialogue organized at the British Council in Dhaka showcased the dreams of Bangladesh’s youth- a future where gender discrimination is a relic of the past, and every woman and girl child is accorded full dignity.
Jointly organized by the Department of Women and Gender Studies at Dhaka University, the United Nations Bangladesh, and LCG WAGE, the highlight of the event was an extempore speech competition featuring university students. Moving beyond theoretical discourse, the students courageously highlighted the ‘invisible walls’ and social prejudices they encounter in their daily lives.
Baiba Zarina, Charge d’Affaires of the European Union, was impressed by the students’ spontaneity, stating: ‘Today’s speeches remind us that policymaking is most effective when we listen to those who directly feel its impact.’
The Chief Guest of the program, Bobby Hajjaj, Minister of State for Primary and Mass Education, emphasized starting the change from within the home. He remarked that shifting cultural perspectives in every household, street, and neighborhood is now a demand of the times- not just through legislation, but as a duty of every citizen and the government alike.
Navanita Sinha, Deputy Representative of UN Women, highlighted a crucial perspective: ‘Gender equality is not just a struggle for women.’ She called upon men to step forward as ‘champions’ and allies, noting that the holistic liberation of a nation is impossible while leaving half its population behind.
Alongside the dialogue, a special exhibition of cartoons and visual art was inaugurated under the supervision of UN Women at the British Council. These satirical and powerful visuals challenged prevailing misogynistic attitudes in society.
Swedish Ambassador Nicolas Weeks offered a sobering reminder, noting that gender equality is not yet a ‘finished product’ in any country in the world. He described it as an ongoing process and stated that the participation of Bangladeshi youth provides new momentum to this global struggle.
The event, hosted by the Department of Women and Gender Studies (DU), UN Bangladesh, and LCG WAGE, was attended by Professor Dr. Taiabur Rahman, Professor Sabiha Yasmin Rosy, Professor Tania Haque, and British Council Director Stephen Forbes.
The speakers concluded that for rights and justice, discussion alone is not enough; effective action is paramount.