UNOPS, a2i and partners hold roundtable on ending digital violence

UNOPS Bangladesh, in collaboration with Aspire to Innovate (a2i), the ICT Division, the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and the High Commission of the Republic of Maldives in Bangladesh, convened a high-level roundtable today titled "UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls."

The event brought together government officials, diplomats, legal experts, mental health professionals, private sector leaders, civil society representatives and the media to address the growing threat of digital violence in Bangladesh.

Held at the ICT Division in Agargaon, the roundtable focused on the rising incidence of online gender-based violence — including cyberstalking, harassment, deepfake exploitation and image-based abuse — and emphasised the need for coordinated, multi-sectoral action to create safer digital environments for women and girls. The session was moderated by Dr Tasneem Siddiqui, executive director of the Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit.

Opening the event, Md Abdur Rofiq, project director (joint secretary) at a2i, highlighted the risks emerging alongside Bangladesh's rapid digital expansion. "Digital spaces are essential for opportunity and participation, but they must not become spaces of fear. Protecting women and girls online is fundamental to ensuring an equitable digital future," he said.

Special guest Sudhir Muralidharan, country manager of UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan, stressed collective responsibility. "Digital violence is not a standalone issue — it is a development challenge, a governance challenge and a human rights challenge. Today's dialogue underscored the need for collective, coordinated action that centres the safety and dignity of women and girls," he said.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Attorney General Barrister Tasnuva Shelley examined gaps in the legal and institutional frameworks. "Technology is evolving faster than our laws. Survivors need faster remedies, stronger safeguards and systems that can respond meaningfully to new forms of digital abuse," she said.

Representing the High Commission of the Republic of Maldives in Bangladesh, special guest Shiuneen Rasheed reaffirmed her country's commitment to advancing digital rights. "We stand with Bangladesh in recognising digital safety as a regional priority. Empowering women and girls online is central to ensuring their full participation in society," she said.

Shish Haider Chowdhury, ndc, secretary of the ICT Division, reaffirmed the government's commitment to stronger digital governance. "Bangladesh's digital transformation must be anchored in safety. The ICT Division is working to reinforce reporting systems, enhance cyber investigation capacities and promote responsible digital citizenship," he said.

The roundtable featured two panel discussions. The session titled "Navigating the Digital Minefield: A Survivor's Journey and the Psychological Toll" included speakers such as actress Azmeri Haque Badhon, law enforcement officials and legal experts, who explored the emotional, psychological and legal impacts of digital abuse.

The second session, "Building a Safer Digital Bangladesh: A Multi-Stakeholder Roadmap," brought together representatives from a2i, Oxfam and Robi Axiata PLC, who presented proposals on technological innovation, improved coordination, private-sector accountability and public awareness.

Speakers also included Dr Muhammad Ekramul Haque, acting dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Dhaka; Maha Abu Emier, international project manager at a2i; Dr Shehela Pervin, additional DIG and general secretary of the Bangladesh Police Women Network; Anamika Bhakta, senior director at Robi Axiata; actress Sabnam Faria; and representatives from law enforcement agencies.

The dialogue concluded with a collective call to strengthen policy frameworks, introduce user-friendly reporting tools, expand digital literacy and enhance cross-agency collaboration to prevent and respond to digital violence.