Women should DEMAND parity: Shamim Azad

Shamim Azad, a poet and writer, believes this year's theme for the International Women's Day – Pledge for Parity -- does not fit too well, in terms of Bangladesh's social circumstances. “The core point is parity. I don't think there should be a pledge: there should be a demand for parity,” she told The Daily Star in a conversation. “Society has not treated women the same as men in our country,” she adds.

Asked about her opinion on women's participation and development in the country, particularly in the cultural sector, she says “Tremendous progress has been made in arts and culture by women, which is extraordinary because women are not the privileged ones in society. Although it looks nice and colourful with women moving freely and taking up positions at work, there are still certain job roles that are not given to women; roles that could challenge cultural taboos.”

But then, what is the way forward for women? “Women and men should get equal opportunities from their homes, and in the society,” says Shamim Azad. “In terms of equal opportunities, it becomes a double whammy for girls. To create a better mindset, it has to start at a young age. Boys and girls should be treated based on their talent, potential and intellect, and not based on their gender,” she concludes.