International NGOs in Bangladesh urge immediate action on rape, sexual harassment 

International NGOs ActionAid Bangladesh, Oxfam in Bangladesh, Plan International Bangladesh, and Save the Children in Bangladesh express serious concern over the  incidents of rape, sexual harassment, and violence against women, girls, and children. 

"We urge immediate action to ensure justice, protection, and the safeguarding of human rights for survivors and their families," the NGOs said in a statement today.

"We welcome the government's recent action on a 'zero tolerance' policy towards violence against women and children. We highly appreciate the government's commitment to completing investigations within 15 days and ensuring that trials conclude within 90 days of the original incident. We demand the immediate fulfillment of this commitment and the implementation of relevant policies."

These prompt actions were taken in response to the nationwide protests led by courageous girls and women, alongside students, teachers, activists, and rights-based organisations, the statement said, adding, "We stand in solidarity with them."

According to recent data published by Ain o Salish Kendra, 294 women and children were subjected to violence in the first two months of this year, including 96 cases of rape, 44 of which involved children. At the same time, there has been a disturbing rise in moral policing, mob violence, and the misinterpretation of 'gender justice.' This alarming trend not only perpetuates victim-blaming but also discourages survivors from seeking justice and protection, according to the NGOs.

"It is important for us to take a stand on this pressing issue, as it directly impacts the communities and constituencies we work with and are accountable to. We have come together to amplify their concerns and voices through this statement, calling for an end to harmful narratives that justify or downplay gender-based violence.

"We firmly state that any form of violence, abuse, and harassment against women, girls, and children is a gross violation of human rights. We call for safe mobility, civic freedom, and digital safety for women and children, alongside the establishment of a comprehensive child protection mechanism. Furthermore, we demand immediate prosecution and exemplary punishment of perpetrators, ensuring that justice is swift and survivor-centred. Legal reforms must be prioritised to strengthen protections, eliminate loopholes, and guarantee the safety and dignity of survivors and their families," it further said.