ActionAid Bangladesh observed the International Women’s Day 2024 with a lively event at the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation auditorium, Dhaka highlighting the urgent need for more investment in women’s empowerment, on March 10, 2024. The celebration brought together government officials, NGO representatives, young leaders, entrepreneurs, and media to advocate for gender-responsive public procurement policies and legal reforms supporting women-owned and women-led businesses.
Honorable State Minister for Women and Children Affairs, Simeen Hussain (Rimi) emphasized the essential role of increased investment in achieving gender equality and sustainable development for women. Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, highlighted ActionAid’s dedication to women’s progress, with over Tk 71 crore invested in the past five years for their training, protection, and empowerment.
The event was also a stage to honor the extraordinary contributions of three women with the “Nasreen Smriti Padak 2024” for their efforts in combating sexual harassment, climate change, and entrepreneurial excellence. Emily Hembram was recognized for her efforts in ending sexual harassment, violence, and child marriage; Nasreen Akhter for her leadership in tackling climate change risks and protecting natural resources; and Fahmida Begum for her entrepreneurial spirit.
Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, an economist, researcher, and sociologist, emphasized the importance of Investing in women for sustainable development. The day included with a panel discussion titled ‘Celebrating Women Leadership: Are We Investing Enough?’ Experts from diverse fields participated in the discussion including the Chairperson of ActionAid International Bangladesh Society (AAIBS), Ibrahim Khalil Al-Zayad; Assistant Professor of Law Department of University of Dhaka, Ms. Taslima Yasmin and renowned poet and director, Shamim Azad.
ActionAid Bangladesh will keep investing in women to build a future where everyone is treated equally.