Youth Organizations Unite to Advocate for Women’s Rights and Equality

Recognizing the urgent need to address gender-based disparities and create a more inclusive society, the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission, in collaboration with the Joyita Foundation, organized a landmark policy dialogue on  January 22, 2025 –  The event aimed to bring youth voices to the forefront, fostering a collaborative platform to propose innovative strategies and actionable reforms to advance women’s rights and achieve gender equality also the event served as a vital platform for youth organizations from across the nation to come together, exchange ideas, and advocate for meaningful reforms to create a more equitable society.

The session, chaired by Shirin Parveen Haque, centered on developing sustainable solutions to eliminate gender-based discrimination and foster a safe, supportive environment for women in workplaces and educational institutions. It emphasized the importance of collective efforts in transforming societal norms and building systems that empower women.

Sultana Mehjabin, Focal of Youth for Policy, underscored the significance of initiating change within families, stating that “Charity Begins at Home.” Her insights highlighted the role of equal rights at the familial level as the foundation for broader societal transformation. Along with Emon Kazi, Executive of Program & Research at IID, Mehjabin presented recommendations inspired by the ‘Youth for Policy Declaration 24,’ outlining key areas for reform.

One of the primary focuses was the advancement of women’s rights. This included establishing dedicated facilities such as common rooms, sanitary napkin booths, maternity leave provisions, and childcare services in workplaces and educational institutions. These measures aim to create an enabling environment where women can thrive personally and professionally.

In addressing women’s safety, participants proposed the formation of safety committees in workplaces and schools, free self-defense training programs, and stricter monitoring of reserved seats for women in public transport. These initiatives are critical for ensuring that women can navigate public and professional spaces with confidence and security.

The dialogue also stressed the need for women’s empowerment through systemic reforms. Recommendations included achieving gender parity in recruitment processes, rethinking the election system to enhance the impact of reserved parliamentary seats for women, and incorporating marginalized groups into mainstream policymaking. Such steps are essential for promoting diversity and inclusion in all sectors of society.

Discussions throughout the session highlighted the urgency of inclusive measures that address the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged communities and pave the way for gender diversity at every level.

At the conclusion of the event, youth representatives formally presented their recommendations to members of the Women’s Reform Commission. This collaborative initiative marks a pivotal step in fostering a society rooted in equality, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

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