When Women Rise, Bangladesh Thrives 🇧🇩

About a week ago, I was fortunate enough to attend a conference titled “Women Shaping the Nation.” A conversation not just about women, but for women, with women, and because of women. Some of the thoughts and experiences from that event what I’d like to share today.

In this conference, voices from different professions came together, sharing stories and visions for the future .

One striking reality was highlighted: Once, women made up nearly 80% of the workforce. Today, that number has fallen to 56%. The reasons are clear - lack of access to technology, absence of skill based training, and limited opportunities to adapt to a changing world.

Another major concern is the working environment for women. Essential facilities such as:

• Separate and hygienic toilets

• Common rooms

• Maternity benefits

• Workplace security

• Daycare centers

are still missing in many workplaces. If organizations cannot provide daycare, community based childcare systems must be created. A working mother should never have to choose between her child and her career.

At the same time , harassment and inequality continue to shadow women’s lives- whether at home, in offices, or across society.

The discussion highlighted policy areas that could truly transform women’s empowerment in Bangladesh:

• Access to quality education and skill development

• Safe and inclusive workplaces

• Economic participation and entrepreneurship

• Legal protection and effective enforcement of rights

• Political representation and leadership

Stories brought these ideas to life. A woman selling shital pati, with proper support, could sell her craft for 2,000–3,000 taka, not merely survive on its margins. Opportunity, when paired with access, can turn survival into success.

There is also great scope in culture and creativity - folk songs, Lalon music, theatre where focused investment could create more employment opportunities for people.

In the southern coastal regions, women stand knee deep in saline water, working tirelessly to sustain their families. Many suffer severe health consequences. Some even lose their wombs due to prolonged exposure , yet their sacrifices remain largely unrecognized .

Women with disabilities, including those who use sign language, face extreme challenges. Due to lack of understanding and inclusivity, they struggle to find jobs and often experience mistreatment.

Finally, a truth that can no longer be ignored:

If income is not counted, it does not contribute to GDP.

Household work is invisible in economic calculations , yet its value is often greater than that of paid workers. Recognizing and valuing this invisible work is essential for true empowerment.

Women’s empowerment is not just a women’s issue , it is a national priority.

One message echoed strongly throughout the room: Our greatest wealth is human capital.

When nearly half of a nation’s population remains undercounted, undervalued, and underutilized . But if these hidden assets are unlocked, Bangladesh will discover limitless possibilities .