Shama Obaed Islam, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, emphasized today the importance of increasing women’s participation in diplomacy, stating that doing so is crucial to bolstering Bangladesh’s international engagement.
In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) today in honor of International Women’s Day, the state minister stated that an increasing number of women are already working in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Bangladesh missions overseas, indicating a steady advancement in women’s representation in diplomacy.
“Many women are already working in the foreign ministry and our missions abroad. Their participation should increase further so they can play a more direct role in shaping foreign policy,” she said.
According to Shama, encouraging more women to enlist in diplomatic cadres and the foreign service would benefit Bangladesh’s foreign policy by utilizing their skills, credentials, and professional experience.
In order for women’s opinions to be represented in international negotiations and diplomatic engagements, she stated that women must be given more opportunity in leadership and policymaking roles.
The BNP leader highlighted larger empowerment initiatives and stated that the party has historically prioritized women’s empowerment.
“If empowerment is to be meaningful, it must start from the grassroots level,” she said, noting that the Family Card initiative aims to strengthen women’s economic capacity from the village level while contributing to the national economy.
Shama also highlighted the role of former Prime Minister late Begum Khaleda Zia in expanding women’s education across the country.
According to her, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s administration is making efforts to guarantee that women may contribute to the development of the country in accordance with their skills and credentials without encountering obstacles.
“Half of our population is women,” the state minister added, emphasizing the necessity for coordinated actions including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and foreign partners to address violence against women, including rape and online harassment. “Leaving them behind will not lead to development,” she continued.
Shama also advocated for more chances for women to run for office directly and take part in decision-making.
She claimed that some political parties engage women in campaign activities but hardly ever nominate them for office.
“That is their political decision, but the BNP follows its own principles regarding women’s participation,” she said, referring to Jamaat-e-Islami, a party that frequently involves women in media discussions or campaigning but does not nominate them in elections.
Shama said that programs like separate bus services for women have been implemented to improve safety and expressed hope that the government’s measures would further promote women’s empowerment and security.
“Our commitment is clear – women’s protection, empowerment and equal participation will remain a priority,” she concluded.
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