Bangladesh Mahila Parishad Calls Violence Against Women a National Crisis

The Bangladesh Mahila Parishad described violence against women and girls in Bangladesh as a deep national crisis during a press conference in Dhaka. The organization's study documents high levels of rape, gang rape, murder, suicide, and child marriage, concluding that neither homes nor educational institutions provide safe environments for women.

Findings indicate that girl children are most affected by gang rape, while adult women face higher rates of murder. The study further notes that homemakers comprise the majority of dowry-related violence and suicide victims, and girl students represent every reported case of child marriage.

Fauzia Moslem, president of the organization, attributed the persistence of this violence to entrenched impunity, interference by influential individuals, and victim-blaming. The organization is calling for the effective enforcement of existing laws, speedier trials, and stronger accountability to protect women across all age groups.