Speakers at a discussion urged the stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the challenges faced by women in the electoral process. 

The collective voice of the panelists of the discussion resonated with a call for inclusive and gender-responsive policies, fostering an environment where women can actively participate in shaping the future of the nation.

Also read: With its geostrategic location, Bangladesh is a key maritime power: BIPSS  

Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) organized the policy circle titled ‘Expectation of Women Voters’ at a hotel in Dhaka on Thursday.

The centered on the women voters’ expectations with speakers, Kazi Nasreen Siddiqa, Founder President and Executive Director, Education and Cultural Society; Shameem Ara Sheuli, Country Representative of InterNews Bangladesh; and Dr Nadia Binte Amin, Chairman, TARA Foundation shedding light on the challenges and aspirations of women in the political landscape.

The moderator of the discussion, Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, former foreign advisor of the caretaker government of Bangladesh and a distinguished Fellow at BIPSS, set the tone for the event by emphasizing the historical significance of women's right to vote. 

He stated, "Speech was given to the Diplomat to conceal his thought. But the issue of women voters is too important to ignore."

Also read: The path Bangladesh is taking is quite challenging: BIPSS President

Dr Chowdhury provided a historical account of the evolution of women's voting rights, noting the persistent challenges faced by women throughout electoral history. 

He highlighted the shift in negative perceptions after the First World War, when the right to vote became a pivotal issue. "Women cannot be kept out of election booths," he said, emphasizing the importance of gender equality in civilized politics.

Kazi Nasreen Siddiqa highlighted the diverse expectations of women voters, influenced by culture, norms, and geographic locations. 

While acknowledging progress, Siddiqa raised questions about the inclusivity of the political system and the awareness of policymakers regarding the challenges faced by women in the country. She expressed concern about the declining women voter turnout, attributing it to the lack of valid research on the reasons behind this trend.

She emphasized that women in rural areas face gender-based violence and struggle with basic needs, making politics a secondary concern. Siddiqa stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for women on election days, stating, "Without democracy, women will suffer."

Sheuli, Country Representative of InterNews Bangladesh, focused on the challenges faced by women voters in the country. She highlighted the prevalent notion that women lack interest and understanding in politics, leading to biases and pressures from family members in candidate selection. 

Also read: Defence diplomacy emerges as an indispensable tool for maintaining peace, stability: BIPSS president

Sheuli emphasized the need for a shift in media coverage during election campaigns, urging the Election Commission and political parties to address the challenges faced by women voters.

The declining women voter turnout in Bangladesh raised concerns for Sheuli, who stressed the importance of collective efforts to overcome these challenges. She advocated for women candidates, stating, "Women candidates can work better for the women in our country." 

Sheuli acknowledged the difficulties women face in securing nominations for elections and called for concerted efforts to promote gender equality in politics.

Dr Nadia Binte Amin shared insights from a study conducted in a small village, revealing common expectations of women voters. 

According to Dr. Amin, women seek honest, dedicated, and sincere representatives who will actively contribute to local development. She emphasized the evolving role of women in making independent voting decisions and their desire for voting centers near their homes due to mobility constraints. 

Dr. Amin underscored the importance of economic empowerment and access to information for women, asserting that these factors play a crucial role in enhancing women's participation in the electoral process. She advocated for new faces in politics, along with increased representation of women.

The interactive session covered critical issues affecting women's participation in politics, including: election campaign funding for women, the need to address financial barriers faced by women candidates, absence of women issues in political agendas, advocacy for integrating women's concerns into the political discourse, women's rights organizations, strengthening organizations working towards women's rights and empowerment.

Diplomats based in Dhaka, former Ambassadors, representatives from international organizations, academician, and students attended the event.