How training women motorcyclists can transform Bangladesh

On the streets of Dhaka, women are far more likely to be seen riding pillion than steering a motorcycle. Yet two-wheelers hold enormous potential for women's independence and economic participation. Recognising this, BRAC's Road Safety Programme convened a recent workshop to design a pilot programme for women motorcyclists under its initiative, Promoting Women Motorcyclists in Bangladesh.

The initiative is informed by extensive research involving 700 respondents, consisting of a significant number of women, both riders and non-riders. Findings reveal persistent challenges: social stigma around women riders, limited access to affordable motorcycles, absence of women-focused training facilities, and heightened concerns over road safety and security.

At the same time, the research highlights growing demand for female riders in sectors such as logistics, healthcare and delivery services. The dual reality – barriers on one side and opportunities on the other – framed much of the discussion during the workshop.

Representatives from government agencies, banks, private companies, development partners, and civil society joined the dialogue. A central question was who should be trained. Should the programme prioritise women seeking personal mobility, such as students or working mothers, or those aiming to use motorcycling as a livelihood?

The consensus leaned towards inclusivity. A diverse participant base would not only meet personal and professional needs but also showcase how women riders can contribute across multiple spheres of society.

Another key theme was to design the training. Participants stressed that instruction must go beyond technical riding skills. Safe and supportive learning environments, affordable financing, and the provision of helmets and protective gear were identified as essential. Licensing support was also considered critical to ensure women riders are legally recognised on the road.

Embedding road safety education at every stage of training was emphasised. This would prepare women not only to ride responsibly but also to serve as advocates for safer driving practices in their communities. 

The third priority was what comes after the training. Without pathways into employment or entrepreneurship, the benefits of training risk being short-lived. Participants highlighted the importance of partnerships with ride-sharing companies, logistics firms, and healthcare providers. Access to easy and convenient loans for purchasing motorcycles was also deemed essential.

Mentorship and peer networks were suggested to encourage women to continue riding despite social resistance. Community champions could play a role in shifting public perceptions and normalising women riders in Bangladesh. 

Speakers repeatedly noted that the training programme cannot succeed in isolation. Sustainable change requires an ecosystem of support. Employers need to create opportunities for women riders, banks must extend credit facilities, policymakers should ensure inclusive licensing, and communities must foster acceptance.

In this context, the motorcycle is more than just a vehicle; it is a symbol of empowerment. The workshop emphasised that women's mobility is inseparable from women's empowerment, and access to a motorcycle can directly expand opportunities for education, employment, and independence.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to develop a comprehensive action plan covering participant selection, training logistics, and post-training employment linkages. More broadly, it sought to spark a shift in public imagination – envisioning women not only as passengers but as active participants in the transport and service sectors.

Natasha Kader is the Senior Manager of Women Banking and Student Banking Segments, Retail Banking at BRAC Bank PLC.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.