Ensuring a Dignified Life: Women Empowerment in Bangladesh and the Barriers Ahead
Every human being deserves to live with dignity and respect. In Bangladesh, we have made visible progress over the years—parents are now more inclined to treat sons and daughters equally in areas like food, clothing, education, and even healthcare. Girls are consistently performing brilliantly in public examinations, often outperforming boys.
 |
| Changing Minds, Changing Lives: Women’s Empowerment Starts with Respect |
But somewhere along the path to adulthood, a large portion of these talented young women begin to disappear from the spotlight. If we look at the job market—especially at leadership and decision-making levels—how many women do we see? And among the women who do reach those positions, how many feel confident and empowered to make independent and impactful decisions?
These are hard questions that we, as a society, need to ask ourselves.
Attitudinal Barriers Holding Women Back
One of the most significant invisible barriers to women’s empowerment is social attitude and mindset. This problem exists across both genders, and it is deeply rooted in cultural norms and media portrayal.
Example 1: Social Media & Unrealistic Expectations
In social media, some young women are being asked degrading or superficial questions like, “What should be your husband’s monthly income?”
The shocking part is not just the question, but the answers—some respond by saying, “At least 10 lakh taka per month,” breaking it down into frivolous needs like “1 lakh for makeup,” “1 lakh for salon,” etc.
Instead, a more dignified response could be:
“As an educated and independent woman, I plan to contribute equally to the financial responsibilities of my family. My partner and I will support each other in building a secure and respectful life.”
Or,
“This is a personal matter, and I don’t owe anyone an explanation about how we manage our relationship or finances.”
Such responses reflect self-respect and discourage the normalization of dependency and materialistic expectations.
Example 2: Entertainment Industry and Public Image
A recent example from the Bangladeshi entertainment industry involves a popular actress who shows excessive excitement after being praised by a male actor known for past controversies. While it is natural to feel happy about recognition, displaying overt affection toward a person with a questionable background can lead to misinterpretation and even exploitation.
This isn’t just a personal risk—it has a social impact. Celebrities serve as role models, especially for the younger generation. When public figures normalize inappropriate behavior or dependency on male approval, they indirectly send the message that a woman’s value lies in her appearance or her connections—not in her skills or character.
Additional Examples in the Bangladeshi Context
Workplace Challenges: Many female employees in NGOs, banks, and government offices report that their ideas are often dismissed or undervalued in meetings dominated by men.
Mobility and Safety: A woman may be highly qualified but forced to reject job offers in cities like Dhaka or Chattogram due to family restrictions or lack of safe transport/accommodation.
Double Burden: Even in dual-income households, women are expected to manage household chores and child-rearing without any real support from their partners.
What Should We Do to Ensure a Dignified Life for Women?
- Encourage self-worth and financial independence among girls from a young age.
- Raise boys to respect boundaries and value female leadership.
- Promote women into senior decision-making roles in government, business, media, and education.
- Create mentorship networks for young women professionals.
- Promote content that shows women as strong, smart, and independent—not just pretty faces.
- Regulate and question sensational content that glorifies toxic relationships or dependency.
- Integrate gender sensitivity and respect in school and university curricula.
- Run awareness campaigns in rural and urban areas on women's rights and dignity.
- Enforce laws against workplace harassment and gender discrimination.
- Ensure legal aid is accessible for women facing exploitation or abuse.
- Normalize the idea of women pursuing careers.
- Support shared responsibility in homes between partners.
Women’s empowerment is not just about giving opportunities—it’s about creating an environment of dignity, respect, and equality. Until we challenge harmful attitudes, question normalized behavior, and support women in every sphere—our development will remain incomplete. Both men and women need to take responsibility to ensure dignified life.