UN urges safe, inclusive and meaningful participation of women in Bangladesh polls

As Bangladesh prepares to vote in its 13th general election tomorrow (12 February), the United Nations has emphasised the importance of safe, inclusive, and meaningful participation of women in the polls. 

The UN in a statement today highlighted that ensuring women's participation in elections is a fundamental right and crucial for a truly democratic process.

The statement said safe, inclusive, and meaningful participation in public life is a fundamental right. 

This includes the rights of all women and girls, including women with disabilities, women from minority communities, gender-diverse people, and others who may face heightened barriers, discrimination, or gender-based violence, the UN added.

The statement also noted concerns raised by women's groups and civil society organisations about increasing violence and harassment targeting women candidates and voters. 

This, the UN said, includes both physical and digital threats, with reports of cyberbullying, deepfakes, coordinated online harassment, and image-based abuse, including AI-altered and sexualized content.

The UN reaffirmed its long-standing support for women's representation and leadership, working with Bangladesh's Election Commission to enhance women's electoral participation. 

The organisation urged all stakeholders, including political leaders and their supporters, to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to intimidation, harassment, or any form of violence against women throughout the electoral process.

The UN expressed confidence that authorities will continue to uphold security and the rule of law, ensuring the safety and rights of every individual. 

It reiterated its commitment to supporting measures that guarantee women can participate as candidates and voters without fear of reprisal or abuse.